5 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!

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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.

You Know That Mr. Brown’s Pub Pays Homage to Lake George’s History

But Did You Know…

Mr. Brown’s Pub is named after the first-ever General Manager of The Sagamore! Once referred to as “one of the most prominent hotel men in the country,” Myron Brown was a man who did more than any other to popularize Bolton as a summer resort. With the idea of owning his own hotel, Myron lost little time in rounding up a few investors, who, at the time, were steady guests at the Mohican Inn. Together, they formed the Green Island Improvement Company and bought Green Island for $30,000. Not long after, Myron Brown led the charge as manager and developer in opening the very first Sagamore Hotel on July 1, 1893.

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