Dancers at the Raleigh Hotel's teen club, 1950s-early 1960s.
We learned a great deal about the many resorts in Ulster and Sullivan counties that sprang up during the 20th century. The history is truly fascinating. In the 1920s, many Jewish New Yorkers sought to escape city life and found cheap land in Sullivan County. Eventually, about 1,200 families established farms there.
Schenk's Paramount Hotel,So. Fallsburg, N.Y., 1937. Tichnor Quality Views, Fallsburg Printing Co.,Cohen Bros.Provided
They raised dairy cows and meat animals — such as chickens, beef cattle, lambs and veal — but not pigs. They also grew vegetables. However, farming was difficult due to the area’s poor soil and the physical and financial challenges involved. Middlemen often cut into profits, so many farmers began renting out rooms and outbuildings, and feeding their guests.
These guests were treated like family and served wholesome food in generous portions, what they called “a full hand.” The farms had an abundance of meat, vegetables, milk and cream, and they made butter, sour cream and cheeses on-site. If a guest wanted another potato, they got one.
Soon, the farmers realized it was more profitable to grow hospitality than potatoes. The resorts emerged — organically, you might say. It was one of the earliest “farm-to-table” hospitality movements in the region.
Guests outside the Jerry Lewis Theater Club at Charles and Lillian Brown’s Hotel, Loch Sheldrake, N.Y. Max Schwartz Co.Provided
Eventually, some resorts added entertainment like music, dancing, comedy acts and the famous Simon Says game. They even offered childcare using local teenage counselors. It all worked remarkably well.
These resorts became springboards for musicians and comedians who went on to build careers and perform in larger venues, including Las Vegas.
Installation of pop-up in progress.Provided
It’s all laid out wonderfully in a charming brick building for visitors to explore and enjoy. Plans are underway to open a restaurant there — tentatively named “Fort Lox” — featuring Jewish delicacies such as borscht, knishes, blintzes, and bagels with lox. Both indoor and outdoor seating will be available.
The addition of food will make the experience even more enriching, and we plan to return. But don’t wait — check it out now and relive the memories.
Northwestern’s goal against HVRHS came in the 52nd minute by Nicolas Brodnitski.
HVRHS was missing four starters in the second round due to injury and eligibility issues. Early in the game, senior Peter Austin went down with an apparent knee injury and did not return.
Angel Gonzalez plays for HVRHS.Riley Klein
In the first round of the tournament, HRVHS defeated Portland High School 3-0. In that game, Anthony Labbadia scored in the eighth minute, Jackson McAvoy scored in the 27th minute and Eric Lopez-Espinosa scored in the 59th minute.
The second-round loss concluded the soccer season for the HVRHS boys, but the girls had yet to begin their state tournament. The HVRHS girls were seeded third in the Class S bracket and earned a first-round bye. The girls opening game was played Tuesday, Nov. 4, against Stafford High School. See results on Facebook and Instagram @lakevillejournal
Raymond Houghtaling plays for HVRHS.Riley Klein
