4 Historical Facts You Didn't Know About The Sagamore
The history of The Sagamore Resort is rife with well-known and intriguing moments. But, we bet you didn’t know these five interesting facts — until now!
You Know That The Sagamore Has Burned Down (Twice!)
But Did You Know…
The time it took to rebuild from the ashes of Sagamore I’s devastating fire of June 27, 1893 to the opening of The Sagamore II was under ONE year? That’s right. Construction started a mere five weeks after the fire and didn’t stop through the cold months. On June 26, 1894, just in time for the summer season, the grand opening of Sagamore II was held, just one day short of the devastating fire’s one-year anniversary.
You Know That The Sagamore is Named After the Mohican Indians’ “Respected Chief”
But Did You Know…
For centuries, Native Americans of the Northeast roamed this region during the summer months to hunt, fish, and explore. For protection and convenience, they camped in strategic locations around the lake, which they affectionately called “An-Di-A-Ta-Roc-Te” which translates to: “Where the mountains touch the water.” We know Green Island was one of their favorite encampments – evidenced by artifacts, like arrowheads, that have been discovered in the past two centuries.
You Know That The Sagamore Resort Proudly Displays its History
But Did You Know…
There’s an entire hallway dedicated to taking a look back at The Sagamore’s history! Wall-to-wall images of postcards, letters, and historical photos from the a bygone era could entertain any age. Some of the postcards feel like love letters to Lake George, and a few even provide cheeky exchanges from guests writing back home. For example, a postcard displayed in this hallway timestamped from June of 1902 reads: “Dear Ruth – You had better come up here if you want to learn to swim, this lake is one of the only big enough to hold ya!” Head down to the Spa hallway in the main hotel during your next visit for a glimpse into the past.
You Know That Donald Ross Designed Sagamore’s Golf Course
But Did You Know…
Donald Ross personally supervised the design and build of the Sagamore Golf Course in 1928. He even planted heather on the grounds from his native Scotland. The course, officially sold to The Sagamore Resort when it was 10-years-young in 1938, today has aged like the finest of wines and is ranked among the “Top 200 Resort Golf Courses” by Golfweek’s Best in 2020. The best part? It still stays true to Donald Ross’s distinct style.
Where to Stay | The Sagamore Resort
Information in this story is from the great work & research by authors:
William Preston Gates, The History of The Sagamore Hotel || David Kramer, The Craftsman Bungalow
