About Saranac Lake, New York
The village with the highest concentration of historic places in America
Saranac Lake, located in the Adirondack Mountains of New York, has a rich history that dates back to the late 19th century. It played a significant role in American medical history, particularly in the treatment of tuberculosis.
Saranac Lake was famously known as a health destination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly for those with tuberculosis due to the belief in the healing properties of its cold, clean air. Dr. Edward Livingston Trudeau founded the Adirondack Cottage Sanitarium here, which was pivotal in tuberculosis research and treatment.
In 1998, the National Civic League named Saranac Lake an All-America City and in 2006 the village was named one of the "Dozen Distinctive Destinations" by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The village is the largest community by population in the Adirondacks with nearly 5,000 residents.
The village maintains much of its historic architecture. There are 186 buildings in the village listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Saranac Lake is known as the "Capital of the Adirondacks". The historic village has the unique distinction of having the highest concentration of historic places of any other town in all of America.
Situated in the heart of the Adirondack Park, Saranac Lake is surrounded by mountains and numerous lakes, including Lower, Middle, and Upper Saranac Lake. This makes it a hub for outdoor activities.
The area is renowned for hiking, with trails like those on Ampersand Mountain and Baker Mountain being popular. Winter activities include skiing, snowmobiling, and ice fishing. Summer offers opportunities for boating, kayaking, and fishing.
Saranac Lake hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Winter Carnival, which features ice palaces, parades, and other festivities. The town has a rich arts scene with galleries, live music, and theaters.
The economy has historically been linked to tourism, health care, and education. Paul Smith's College, located nearby, plays a significant role in the local economy and cultural life.
Saranac Lake has a small-town feel with a strong sense of community. Local businesses, from bookstores to cafes, contribute to a lively downtown area.
Besides Dr. Trudeau, Saranac Lake was home to or visited by notable figures like Robert Louis Stevenson (who wrote part of "Treasure Island" here) and Norman Cousins, who wrote about his experience with laughter therapy while recovering from illness in Saranac Lake..
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The village's unique history has influenced its architecture, with many buildings featuring cure porches. It maintains a strong connection to its medical history through preserved buildings and museums. The community has preserved much of its historic character while adapting to modern times.
The village represents a unique example of how a community developed around medical treatment and successfully transitioned to new purposes while preserving its historical heritage. Today, Saranac Lake continues to attract visitors interested in both its outdoor recreation opportunities and its fascinating medical history.