Otsego Lake

Otsego Lake. . , Few lakes in America... have gathered in so much romance, legend, and history... Otsego Lake is our most distinguished citizen. , -Louis C. Jones, Director, New York State Historical Association, 1947-1972, The beauty of Otsego Lake has long been admired by local residents. It's shores have attracted tourists since the 19th century when the popularity of James Fenimore Cooper's novels laid the foundation for a strong tourism industry., Efforts by early preservationists, including the Clark family, and environmental groups have aided in protecting the natural features of the lake. Their work has allowed for the continuation of activities, like boating, fishing, swimming, enjoyed by both locals and tourists., [Photo captions, clockwise from top right, read] , . Otsego Lake, 1862 · Thomas Hicks , Mount Wellington, nicknamed "The Sleeping Lion for its distinctive shape, is a prominent feature of this painting. The unique hill is part of the Glimmerglass Historic District, created in 1999, which includes all of Otsego Lake and shores., . Three Mile Point Park, ca. 1925 , Before the 20th century, public access to Otsego Lake was minimal. In 1890, the Village of Cooperstown purchased Three Mile Point and opened it as a public park. Fairy Spring Park, located directly across the lake from where you are standing, and Lakefront Park, in Cooperstown, soon followed., . Kingfisher Tower, ca 1900 , Edward Clark built Kingfisher Tower (across the lake and to your left) at Paint Judith in 1876. When some criticized this addition to the landscape, Clark anonymously responded: "...Mr. Clark has been led to erect it simply by desire to beautify the lake and add an attraction.", Nature is Good for the Body , Experiencing wildlife and nature can actually help decrease physical pains, blood pressure, heart rate, and stress hormones. Enjoying Otsego lake and the surrounding area through walking, kayaking, canoeing, or swimming are great ways to reap those benefits. , Excellus [Blue Cross Blue Shield]