The Rich History of Glens Falls NY
Glens Falls NY was the site of many French-Indian and Revolutionary War Battles because of its halfway point between between Fort Edward in Fort Edward NY and Fort William Henry in Lake George NY. Orignally called "Chepontuc", a Mohawk word meaning 'hard place to get around', Glens Falls had a waterfall that blocked the Hudson River. In 1763 Abraham Wing formed a settlement called "Wing's Falls" but later lost the name of the town to Colonel Johannes Glen to settle a debt. Glen changed the name to Glen's Falls, and the apostrophe was eventually dropped.
In 1780, Glens Falls was destroyed in the "Great Burning" of 1780 when a British punitive expedition passed through the area. Glens Falls was rebuilt and came back stronger than ever!
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, many renowned architects designed buildings in Glens Falls. Although three more fires posed serious threats, many unique buildings with storied histories survived and are still in use in the city today.
Glens Falls was incorporated as a city in 1908, separating it it from the Town of Queensbury. It celebrated its centennial in 2008 with many special events in Downtown Glens Falls.
Glens Falls prides itself on being named "Hometown USA," a title given to it by Look Magazine on account of its small-town feel and big city amenities.
Glens Falls is home to many architectural gems that have withstood the test of time.
Photo: Jason Checkla
A large portion of Glens Falls has architectural and historic significance.
Photo: Jason Checkla
Photo: New Way Lunch
