Caroga Lake: Tanning, Tourism, and the Arts
Friday, July 28, 2023
The serene backdrop of Caroga Lake in the southern Adirondacks served as a destination for both the early tanning and lumber industries as well as a community of artists, musicians, and creatives that continues into today. Its buildings, landscapes, and history offer a rich tapestry to explore the impact of those earlier industries and how its past inspires a vibrant arts movement in the present day, one that thrives under the stewardship of the Caroga Arts Collective. This outing will bring attendees to the Caroga Lake Historical Association Museum for a primer on the area’s cultural history, as well as several of its historic buildings. We will also explore numerous historic buildings associated with the efforts of Massachusetts stateman and former Governor, industrialist, and philanthropist William Claflin, and the team around him who organized tanning and leather pursuits in the Caroga area. Lastly, explore the amazingly intact Sherman’s Amusement Park, an iconic and historic venue that is under the care and stewardship of Caroga Arts Collective and remains a destination for entertainment, music, weddings, fairs, and numerous other events. In the evening, attendees are encouraged to register for and attend a concert hosted as part of the Caroga Arts Collective’s annual series.
This tour is led by our friends from the Caroga Lake Historical Association Museum, including Doug Purcell and Denny Fincke, as well as folks from the Caroga Arts Collective including artist and musician Kyle Price, and other property owners and community members. The tour begins at 10 AM and ends around 4 PM.
The fee is $60 for members and non-members.