Then & Now
by Highlands Historian Stella Bailey
In the August 16, 2019 News, Editor Mary Jane Pitt’s “My Thoughts” column was dedicated to the small town newspaper and, unhappily, their future, possible demise.
In February 2017 at the original Center office on Main Street, I spoke before a limited group of listeners regarding the great importance and value of a community newspaper. I stressed that the newspaper is a major research tool and in many ways the only way we have of connecting with the early days of our community, events and families.
At one time there were two newspapers in Highland Falls. The ‘Highland Falls Journal’ was printed every Saturday by James C. Merritt. A copy of his 1875 paper — the only one I have seen — is in a frame at the Historical Society. The Tripp brothers started the News of the Highlands in March of 1891. Mr. Merritt then discontinued his paper due to lack of business support, writing a nasty goodbye letter, in the paper!
After this came many editors. In my lecture I reminded of the numerous cyber world news programs and many sources of telecommunication, but noted they are no comparison to the local written word. For instance, without our local news, how would you know that in 1946 in Fort Montgomery, near Marchese Chevrolet, which was then Freddy’s Tavern, an airplane made an emergency landing right on the highway? Or in that same year in Villa Parkway house lots were selling for only $600?
In many cases these facts are only available in the local news. The newspapers from the 30’s and 40’s were filled with the purposed West Point reservation expansion and the condemnation and purchase of local lands. By doing research I found that as far back as the 20’s, the US government was already considering this expansion. Part of this expansion idea also considering the building of an airport along the Ondaora/Cragston/Hudson River corridor. It failed only due to financial support but not until the wealthy residents living there were writing letters to government officials for confirmation on what they considered a bad idea. If this airport had taken place, Highland Falls would not be as we know it and possibly not even exist!
Here are some history items only found in the local paper. As you well know, the village has been the home for many noted residents and visitors. The Cozzens Hotel welcomed President Lincoln, noted generals and foreign dignitaries. Local resident Joseph Faurot was responsible for introducing the finger printing system which changed law enforcement. He is buried in Peacedale Cemetery.
At the present time, and back in 1937, the village residents were not complying with recycling rules and were advised garbage would not be picked up. So back in 1937 the collector had a bell installed on the truck to alert residents he was coming, so the garbage better be ready! Sounds like the old milk delivery notice.
Did you now that at the bottom of Mountain Avenue there was once, right on the road, the first street light? It was taken down when someone ran into it. The plaque is now in the Historical Society.
Through the courtesy and generosity of the News of the Highlands, Inc., the Historical Society is now the repose of the collection of bound News of the Highlands and Cornwall Local. Now don’t think you can rush in and start looking at the pages! Most of the books back in the 1800’s and early 1900’s are worn and delicate and not available to the public. However, the papers are available on microfilm in both the local library and Historical Society. Such a wealth of community history information!
Support the local paper and be thankful for the continuation of the wonderful knowledge it contains. Sure there are ads, but they too are necessary for the continued operation. Sometime you yourself may want to research something and you know where it may be found.
