Near Roscoe in Sullivan County, New York — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)

The Catskill Mountains

Historic New York

Photographed by Mary Ellen Coghlan, September 11, 2009

1. The Catskill Mountains Marker

Inscription. The Catskill Mountains tower above the Hudson River as it winds its way past one of the most popular resort areas in the United States. These time-worn mountains were called Kaatskill (Cat Creek) by Dutchmen of the seventeenth century, probably because of the wildcats that once roamed the area.

This group of gently sloping peaks, only two of which exceed 4,000 feet, have contributed to the pleasure, economy, and culture of generations of New Yorkers. During the nineteenth century, Catskill forests supplied timber for lumber mills, tanneries, and furniture factories. They also provided the setting for several literary works, the most famous being Rip Van Winkle. The scenic beauty of the area has been depicted in the landscapes of many artists.

Early twentieth century conservationists, fearful that the natural resources of this region would be stripped, created the Catskill Forest Preserve. Through the work of this State agency, fields have gone back to woodlot and the shorn hills have grown new timber.

Erected 1967 by Education Department, State of NY, Department of Transportation.

Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Horticulture & Forestry • Natural Resources

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. In addition, it is included in the Historic New York State series list.

Location. 41° 55.561′ N, 74° 51.853′ W. Marker is near Roscoe, New York, in Sullivan County. It is on the Route 17 Quickway at the Roscoe Rest Area, 2.8 miles east of Exit 94 (Old Route 17), on the right when traveling east. Marker is in front of the comfort station. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Roscoe NY 12776, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Regionally, this marker is in Upstate New York

and in the Hudson Valley.

It is also in the American Northeast,

in the Mid-Atlantic,

in Appalachia,

and specifically in Northern Appalachia. Globally, it is in the North Atlantic Region,

North America,

the Western Hemisphere,

the Western World,

and the Anglosphere.

Historically, it finds itself in what was once New Netherland

and also one of the original Thirteen Colonies.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within 3 miles of this marker, measured as the crow flies: “They Came to the Mountains by Rail” (here, next to this marker); Livingston Manor Covered Bridge (approx. 1.8 miles away); Westfield Flats Cemetery (approx. 2½ miles away); Presbyterian Church (approx. 2½ miles away); John R. Mott (approx. 2½ miles away); Borscht Belt - Livingston Manor (approx. 2.6 miles away); Devastating Fire (approx. 2.6 miles away); Risen from the Ashes (approx. 2.6 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Roscoe.

Another marker is no longer nearby. Livingston Manor Covered Bridge (was approx. 1.8 miles away but has been confirmed missing).

More about this marker. In the coming months Route 17 also known as the "Quickway" will be converted to Interstate 86.

Photographed by Scott J. Payne, October 1, 2016

2. The Catskill Mountains Marker

Photographed by Charles Berman, December 25, 2023

3. The Catskill Mountains Marker

Credits. This page was last revised on June 18, 2024. It was originally submitted on September 13, 2009, by Mary Ellen Coghlan of Manahawkin, New Jersey. This page has been viewed 1,140 times since then and 23 times this year. Photos: 1. submitted on September 13, 2009, by Mary Ellen Coghlan of Manahawkin, New Jersey. 2. submitted on October 2, 2016, by Scott J. Payne of Deposit, New York. 3. submitted on June 14, 2024, by Charles Berman of Binghamton, New York. • Kevin W. was the editor who published this page.