CONGRESS PARK.CONGRESS PARK.DRAWING ROOM GRAND UNION.DRAWING ROOM GRAND UNION.The entire length ofBroadwayis a magnificent drive andaffords an interesting and picturesque ride of some five minutes. About a mile north of Congress Hall the half-mile track and handsome grounds ofGlen Mitchel are located. The Saratoga County Agricultural Society have their buildings here. The track is open to all who wish, both pedestrians and carriages. At the base of a steep bluff, shaded with numerous trees, and directly facing the race-track, is the Glen Mitchel hotel. The grounds are maintained at great expense by the proprietors of the hotel, and when this and the short season of patronage is regarded, the prices for ordinary refreshments will not be considered as extraordinary as they might otherwise seem. The drive may be extended by turning to the east and driving round a small lake—Excelsior—and past the water-works, returning by Spring Avenue.Thewalk through the woods to Excelsior Springis by far the most beautiful in Saratoga. To reachthe grove, pedestrians and carriages will pass along Lake Avenue a little past Circular street, when a small sign will be found pointing the way to the "Walk to Excelsior Spring." No tourist should fail to visit this place. A pleasant hour may be spent in the woods, after a stroll through which, the delicious water of the Excelsior will be refreshing indeed.Congress ParkIs the gem of Saratoga. It consists of a small hill in the shape of a horseshoe, covered with handsome trees, and laid out in smooth walks encircling the low ground which surrounds the spring. The park is the property of the Congress and Empire Spring Co., who generously keep it in perfect repair, and open to the public.UNION HOTEL AND GROUNDS.UNION HOTEL AND GROUNDS.Gridley's Trout Ponds.Those who are fond of "speckled beauties," and would like to obtain a fine mess without encountering the swarms of mosquitoes, gnats and sand flies that usually infest the region where the trout may be taken, should visit Gridley's. "Old Gridley," as he is familiarly called, formerly kept the Pavilion, near the depot. Some three or four years since he conceived the idea of starting a fish propagating establishment. His place is located in a beautiful little ravine, about one mile and a half from Congress Spring and just beyond the race-course. There may be seen myriads of speckled trout in a succession of small ponds situated along down the ravine, one below the other, supplied with water of the brilliancy of a crystal, gushing from the banks. It is a well known fact that the chief reason for this species of fish being so scarce, is because of their devouring each other, or, in other words, "big fish eating up little fish." Hence, Mr. Gridley, as well as other propagators, is obliged to separate them as to age and size—one-year olds in one pond, two-year olds in another, and so on down.Visitors are very cordially received by Mr. G., and provided with fishing tackle, etc—and sometimes a bottle of Rhine wine gratis—and are duly informed that his prices are $1 per pound—that is, for every pound of fish caught, visitors can pay $1. The fish may be seen tantalizingly sporting and jumping out of the water two or three thousand at a time. For any one who contemplates indulging in the sport, and is willing to pay for it, this is the place to come.The Saratoga Battle Ground.A visit to the scene of the great battle of Saratoga, in October, 1777, which ended in the surrender of the British Army, under Burgoyne, to the Americans, under Gates, willoccupy a pleasant though somewhat long day's excursion. The battle was fought upon the elevated lands at Bemis Heights two miles from the Hudson, in the town of Stillwater, about 15 miles from Saratoga Springs.INDIAN CAMP."SET UP A CENT"—INDIAN CAMP.Visitors may obtain all desired information respecting the precise localities of the struggle from Cicerones on the spot.The Surrender Ground,The scene of the capitulation a few weeks subsequent to the battle, is a few miles further up the river.The Village Cemetery,In places that can boast but few objects of interest, is usually one of the chief places of resort. In Saratoga there are so many "show places" and peculiar attractions, that the cemetery visitors are limited principally to the resident population, and those who arm in arm, or hand in hand, stroll through its meandering paths, or while away their hours in its shady seats nurturing the tender passion.The old cemetery is near the Empire Spring. The village cemetery proper is found east and south of Congress Park. In both may be found some curious inscriptions, and from the latter we transcribe the following additions to cemetery literature, with all respect for those whose memories are thus enshrined:"My Engine is now cold and still,No water doth her boiler fill,The wood affords its flames no more,My days of usefulness are o'er.""Rest here thou early call'd, in peace,'Till Jesus grant a sweet release.""There's not an hourOf day or dreaming nights but I am with thee,And not a flower that sleeps beneath the moonBut in its hues or fragrance tells a tale of thee."What seemed to us perhaps the most touching inscription, we found upon a stone bearing the date of 1792:"This stone is raised by a daughter and only child, as a token of respectFor a mother whom she was too young to know, but whose virtuesShe humbly desires to imitate."The Verd-Antique Marble Works.Among the outside diversions which every tourist, and especially every scientist, should visit is the steam mills of the Adirondack Verd-Antique Marble Co. The mills are situated in this village near the freight depot, though the quarries are in Thurman, on the Adirondack railroad. A very interesting peculiarity of this marble—which is quite beautiful—is, that it contains minute fossils of the earliest forms of existence known to scientific men—theEozoön Canadense. The marble is capable of a high polish, and makes beautiful ornaments.Amusements.Some one has said that the amusements of Saratoga life are dancing and drinking, the one exercise being the Omega as the other is the Alpha of its butterfly life. Saratoga, however,aboundsin amusements. There are the races at the race-course and on the lake; there are balls and hops every night; there are the Indians and the Circular railway, and drives in all directions; there are select parties and music by the bands, and shopping, and concerts, and, at thereligious houses, charades and tableaux, and prayer meetings; and what more could be asked?Besides all these,Josh Billingssays that, "after going to Long Branch and frolicking in the water, he relishes going to Saratoga and letting the water frolic in him."A correspondent gives the followingRoutine for a Lady.Rise and dress; go down to the spring; drink to the music of the band; walk around the park—bow to gentlemen; chat a little; drink again; breakfast; see who comes in on the train; take a siesta; walk in the parlor; bow to gentlemen; have a little small talk with gentlemen; have some gossip with ladies; dress for dinner; take dinner an hour and a half; sit in the grounds and hear the music of the band; ride to the lake; see who comes by the evening train; dress for tea; get tea; dress for the hop; attend the hop; chat awhile in the parlors, and listen to a song from some guest; go to bed. Varied by croquet, ladies' bowling alley, Indian camp, the mineral springs, grand balls twice a week, concerts, etc., and the races.Balls.The three largest hotels have elegant ball-rooms, where hops take place every evening. Balls are held every week at each of the houses. Upon the latter occasion, the dressing becomes a matter of life and death, and explains why such numbers of those traveling arks known as "Saratoga trunks" are docked at the station every summer.Balls are reported in the papers far and near, and the anxiety of some to secure a good report of their costume isamusing. Brown's dismay at the bills is somewhat appeased as he reads in the morning paper, "Miss Brown, of ——, a charming graceful blonde, was attired in a rich white corded silk, long train, with ruffles of the same, overdress of pink gros grain, loopeden panier, corsage low,decollette, with satin bows and point lace; haira la Pompadour, with curls on white feathers, pearls and diamonds.She was much admired.Miss Brown is the accomplished daughter of Mr. Brown, one of the leading citizens of the Metropolis."The hops are free to all the guests. An admission of $1 is customary at the balls, and choice refreshments are served. Upon ball nights, the tasteful iron bridge which connects Congress Hall with its ball-room, and the grounds of the Grand Union, are illuminated by colored lights, presenting a fairy-like scene of bewildering beauty. Upon these occasions a large proportion of the population, both exotic and native, come forth as upon a festal day.The RacesOccur the middle of July, and the second week in August, and are under the charge of the Saratoga Racing Association.The race-course is about a mile from Congress Spring. It was laid out in 1866, by C.H. Ballard, an accomplished surveyor, and is unsurpassed, if equaled, by any race-course in America, not excepting the famous Fashion course on Long Island. The swiftest and most noted racers in the Union are brought here, and many of the most remarkable races known to sportsmen have occurred on these grounds.Indian Camp.A few steps from Congress Spring, directly past the Saratoga Club-House, leads you to a wicket gate marked "Circular, Railway and, Indian, Camp."The Indians are not such as figure conspicuously in the early annals of our country and in our favorite romances—as Eli Perkins says—"far different!" They are simply a Canadian Gypsy band, part low French and part low Indian blood. They come here annually with an eye to business, and open their weird camp to the public simply as a speculation, offering for sale the various trinkets to which their labor is directed.The white tents glistening among the green hemlocks, and the rustic lodges displaying the gayly decorated bow and quiver, make a picture somewhat attractive; but the Indians themselves are dirty and homely, and far from inviting in their appearance. The slim, blackeyed, barefooted boys, who pester you with petitions to "set up a cent," as a mark for their arrows, have a sort of Gypsy picturesqueness, however; and as one walks down the little street between the huts—half tent and half house—he may get an occasional glimpse of a pappoose swinging in a hammock, and thank his stars for even such a fractional view of the pristine life.The Circular RailwayIs connected with the Indian Camp. An opportunity is here afforded for enthusiasts and very gallant gentlemen to test their strength and patience, by propelling themselves and friends round the circle in one of the cars. The recreation requires the expenditure of no little strength, and is only accomplished by the sweat of some one's brow, but it is preferable, doubtless, to "swinging round the circle."Within a few feet of the Circular Railway is a spring of pure soft water. The water is quite drinkable, and is esteemed unusually pure and wholesome. The well water of the town is good, and the water from Excelsior Lake, which has lately been introduced throughout the village by the Holly system, is considered superior.Shopping.Abundant opportunity is afforded those who have occasion to visit emporiums of art and fashion on shopping designs intent. The flashing establishments under the large hotels, as well as several others in the village, cater entirely to the fashionable visitor. Everything desirable in the way of laces, feathers, diamonds and ornaments, and elegant dress goods are obtainable. It is the custom of many of the fashionable merchants andmodistesof New York to open here during the summer, branch establishments for the sale of their specialities. There are numerous resident stores also, which would not disgrace New York or Boston; among these the house of H. Van Deusen, on Broadway and Phila street, near the Post-Office, takes the lead. During the warm season, the Saratoga Broadway glitters with the brilliant display in shop windows, and the gorgeous exhibition of goods upon the sidewalks.Evening.It is only in the evening that Saratoga is in full bloom. When—"—— night throughout the gelid air,Veils with her sable wings the solar glare;When modest Cynthia clad in silver lightExpands her beauty on the brow of night,Sheds her soft beams upon the mountain side,Peeps through the wood and quivers on the tide,"then faces light up with the gas lamps. The parlors begin to fill with elegantly attired ladies, the piazzas are thronged with chatty and sociable gentlemen, and the streets are crowded, far more than they are in the daytime, by pleasure strollers of either sex in elegant array. The ball-room becomes radiant with costly chandeliers whose effulgence is reflected by diamonds of the first water.One dark evening, at the height of last season, in the midst of the preparations for a brilliant ball, the gas which supplies the whole village became suddenly exhausted. Candles were the only resource, and there was by some mischance a limited supply of these. Bottles were improvised for candlesticks, and stationed in the corners and on the pianos of the massive parlors, rendering the scene grotesque and ludicrous in the extreme, while the closer nestling of lovers and the solemn stillness reigning on every hand gave sublimity to the picture. The poet Saxe happened to be among the guests at Congress Hall, and borrowed a candle from a pretty young lady. The next morning she found under her door the following beautiful lines:"You gave me a candle; I give you my thanks,And add, as a compliment justly your due,There is not a girl in these feminine ranksWho could, if she would, hold a candle to you."Verily "darkness brings the stars to view." On this occasion there was no little "sparking," and though the flames of the gas lamps gave no light, love's flame burned brighter than ever.Saratoga in Winter.Saratoga is not a "Country where the leaves never fall, and the eternal day is summer-time." As the gorgeous autumnal sunsets of October crown the golden-capped, or no longer verdant forests, the summer beauties prepare to return to their winter homes. The falling leaves in this vicinity are wondrously beautiful, and the cool sunsets will richly reward those who tarry to behold them; but "the season" is over, and the little town becomes almost a deserted village."Brightly, sweet Summer, brightly,Thine hours have floated by."A shade of melancholy cannot but possess those who remain after the last polka is polked, the last light in the last ball-room is extinguished, and the summer ended. At length the railway engine whistles at long intervals; the mail-bags lose their plethora; the parish preachers, shorn of occasional help, knuckle to new sermons; the servants disperse; the head waiter retires to private life, and the dipper-boy disappears in the shades of the pine forests; the Indians pack up their duds, and, like the Arab, silently steal away; while the landlords retire within their sanctums to count over their hard-earned dollars.After a time the village seems to become accustomed to the "new departure," and local politics, Tammany rings and frauds, and committees of forty agitate the public breast, until Spring returns and Saratoga blossoms again with new beauty.Romance.Although Saratoga is preëminently a fashionable resort, and the city of vanity fair, it is nevertheless Cupid's summer-home; and lovers here acknowledge the first throbbings of that passion of bright hopes, and too many sad realities—love. The complaint is always heard that "fish don't bite this season;" but autumn comes, the butterflies return home, and then it is found that a goodly number have beencaught. Those not matrimonially inclined should know that a sojourn at a Spa is attended with considerable danger.Saratoga Society.The poet says of Saratoga life:"Saratoga society,What endless variety!What pinks of propriety!What gems of sobriety!What garrulous old folks,What shy folks and bold folks,And warm folks and cold folks!Such curious dressing,And tender caressing,(Of course that is guessing.)Such sharp Yankee Doodles,And dandified noodles,And other pet poodles!Such very loud patterns,(Worn often by slatterns!)Such strait necks, and bow necks,Such dark necks and snow necks,And high necks and low necks!With this sort and that sort,The lean sort and fat sort,The bright and the flat sort—Saratoga is crammed full,And rammed full, and jammed full," etc.Conclusion.But while we laugh at Saratoga, its dancing, dressing and flirtation, it is yet not without its lessons for an observing eye."Here the heartMay give a useful lesson to the head,And Learning wiser grow without his books."It is not all frivolity. Like every aspect of life, and like most persons, it is a hint and suggestion of something high and poetic. It is an oasis of repose in the desert of our American hurry. It is a perpetual festival.Here we step out of the worn and weary ruts of city society, and mingle in a broad field of varied acquaintance. Here we may scent the fairest flowers of the South, and behold the beauty of our Northern climes. Here party distinctions and local rivalries are forgotten. Here, too, men mingle and learn from contact and sympathy, a sweeter temper and a more catholic consideration, so that the summer flower we went to wreath may prove not the garland of an hour, but a firmly linked chain in our American Union.CLOSE OF THE SEASON AT SARATOGACLOSE OF THE SEASON AT SARATOGAAPPENDIX TO PART I.When the previous forms went to press, we were unable to give any satisfactory and reliable statement of the Spouting Springs recently discovered in the vicinity of the Geyser. We present, below, such information as we are able to give in regard to them at this time, hoping to render our description more complete in future editions of this work.THE TRITON SPRING.This recently discovered Spouting Spring is located on the north side of the road near the Geyser. The vein was struck in January of the present year. The depth of the well is about 150 feet. The water spouts about fifteen feet above the surface. Present appearances seem to indicate that the spring is chalybeate, though the mineral ingredients are not large. We are unadvised in reference to the plans regarding it. Messrs. Verbeck and Gilbert are the proprietors.THE ESMOND AND WRIGHT SPRINGIs located in the ramble between the railroad and the Geyser Spring, and near the Ellis Spring.On the 17th of June of the present year, at almost the identical hour in which Mr. Gilmore opened his Peace Jubilee, a new mineral fountain—a spouting spring—gushed forth from its deep origin in mother earth to rejuvenate and bless mankind. The gas is so abundant that if the orifice of the tube is closed for a few moments sufficient force will accumulate to blow a steam whistle. It has not been christened at present. We suggest that it be called the "Gilmore Spring."The well is over a hundred feet deep, and the water rises about thirty feet above the surface. The water is strongly saline, and will probably be classed among the cathartic waters. It bears a strong resemblance to the celebrated Geyser. The proprietors inform me that several of their acquaintances have already experienced benefit from this water. The spring promises to be valuable. The public will look with interest to know into whose management the spring passes, as the proprietors are plain farmers and intend to commit the spring to more experienced hands, who will introduce it to the public favor. A neat bottling house and a tasteful colonnade are already being constructed. Prof. Chandler will probably make the analysis at an early date.THE DUELL SPRING.The spring owned by Mr. Duell, of the Waverly House, is beyond the Geyser, and on the margin of the pond. We are unable to present reliable information in regard to this spring, as it has just been discovered by Mr. Jesse Button.The mother of all these spouting wells—the Geyser Spring—is rearing quite a family of interesting children. We have heard it predicted that the time is not very distant when every citizen of Saratoga will have a mineral fountain in his door-yard. At present no successful efforts have been made to obtain a spouting spring in the village. We know of no reason to render success impossible or improbable. Certainly, "'tis a consummation devoutly to be wished," and we should be glad to see a fair trial of the experiment.ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT.H. VAN DEUSEN,RESIDENT STORE,(ESTABLISHED 15 YEARS,)124 & 126 BROADWAY, SARATOGA,Would call the attention of strangers, as well as citizens, to his large and elegant assortment ofSTAPLE AND FANCY DRY GOODS.He keeps constantly on hand all theNovelties of the Seasons,Rich Silks, Fine Dress Goods, Kid Gloves, Hosiery, Jewelry, Parasols, Umbrellas, Real Laces, Cashmeres, Cloths, and everything to be found in a First Class Dry Goods House.I have only one price, sell exclusively for cash, and the only one price cash house in Saratoga.NO TROUBLE TO SHOW GOODS.Remember the Store, Next to the Bank, 124 & 126 Broadway,H. VAN DEUSEN.PEOPLE'S LINE STEAMERSFOR NEW YORK.St. John, Drew, Dean Richmond.One of these STEAM PALACES will leave Albany every evening (Sundays excepted), on arrival of the evening trains on the Rensselaer and Saratoga, New York Central and Albany & Susquehanna Railroads.Hand pointing rightHudson River Railroad Tickets good for State Room Passage,BAGGAGE CHECKED THROUGH.SARATOGA OFFICE, 1st DOOR NORTH OF CONGRESS HALL,Where State Rooms can be secured Daily.F.D. WHEELER, Jr., Agent.J.W. HARCOURT, Agent,Saratoga Springs.Albany.B.F. JUDSON,Publisher,D.F. RITCHIE,Editor."The SARATOGIAN,"DAILY AND WEEKLY,Office in St. Nicholas Building,Corner Broadway and Phila Street,SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y.TheSaratogianis one of the best Advertising Mediums in this section, as it has a circulation more than double that of all the Republican press of Saratoga County combined.The facilities of theSaratogianOffice for the prompt execution ofFirst Class Job Work,are equal to those of any in the city, and all work is done at reasonable figures.EVERETT HOUSE,On Broadway,A Few Doors Below the Clarendon.B.V. FRASER,—Proprietor.Will be Published June, 1872,SARATOGA ILLUSTRATED,A SOUVENIR.Containing 50 Illustrations, includingSteel Plates and Photo-Plates.ELEGANTLY BOUND IN CLOTH AND GILT.TAKE IT HOME WITH YOU!Grand Union HotelOPENS JUNE 1st,The Largest Summer Hotel in the World,BRESLIN, GARDNER & CO.,PROPRIETORS.Eureka Mineral & White Sulphur Spring WaterANDWHITE SULPHUR BATHSLake Avenue, Saratoga SpringsTheEureka Spring Company'spureWhite Sulphur Spring, discovered last Summer is now open for visitors. The Water isEqual in Quality and Strength to the best White Sulphur Springsin this State, and FAR SUPERIOR to most of them.The Company has erected a pleasantBATHING HOUSE,CONTAINING FIFTY BATH ROOMS,And replete with every Convenience for WARM and COLD SULPHUR BATHS,Single Bath Tickets,Fifty Cents.Coupon Tickets, good for 12 Baths,Five Dollars.EUREKA SPRING CO.THE SHORTEST ROUTEBETWEENBOSTON AND SARATOGA SPRINGSIS VIA THEFITCHBURG AND CHESHIRE RAILROADS,Passing through FITCHBURG, KEENE, BELLOWS FALLS and RUTLAND,TOWhitehall, Fort Edward, SARATOGA SPRINGS, Albany, Troy, Schenectady and all points West.Trains connect at Fort Edward forGLENS FALLS and LAKE GEORGE.The trip betweenBoston and Saratogais made in one of theFAMOUS PULLMAN PALACE CARS,provided by this Line—a luxury which cannot be enjoyed on any other route, this being theonly Linerunningthrough DayandDrawing Room Carsbetween these points.At the office of the Line in Boston (82 Washington St.,) during the Excursion Season,ROUND TRIP TICKETSWill be on sale atGREATLY REDUCED RATES,To all of the principal points in New England, New York and Canada.Summer tourists or invalids, traveling for health or pleasure, will find it for their interest to send or call for circulars and information before purchasing elsewhere.ALL COMMUNICATIONS PROMPTLY ANSWERED.Boston Office,82 WASHINGTON STREET,C.A. FAXON, Gen. Agent.ALL KINDS OF INSURANCES EFFECTED AT THE LOWEST RATES.WILLIAM M. SEARING, BEEKMAN H. SEARING,Attorney at Law. Notary Public.WM. M. SEARING & SON,REAL ESTATE BROKERS,INSURANCE AND COLLECTING AGENTS,178 & 180, BROADWAY, AINSWORTH PLACE,(ROOMS 12 and 13,)SARATOGA SPRINGS,BUY, SELL, RENT AND EXCHANGEFurnished Cottages, Stores, Dwelling Houses,OFFICES, COUNTRY RESIDENCES,CITY AND SUBURBAN LOTS, FARMS,SHOPS, MILLS, FACTORIES,STEAM AND WATER POWERS,Bonds, Mortgages and other Securities, Bought and Sold.LOANS NEGOTIATED.Collect Rents, Notes, Accounts and Evidences of Debt.Conveyancing, Searching and Examining Titles made a specialty.PARTICULAR ATTENTION PAID TO MAKING COLLECTIONS.Perfect satisfaction guaranteed to all parties.By promptness, industry and fair dealing, we aim to merit the confidence and give satisfaction to those who may entrust their business to our charge.Respectfully,WM. M. SEARING & SON.Only First Class Companies Represented.CONGRESS HALL."CONGRESS HALL."' HATHORN & SOUTHGATE, Proprietors.
CONGRESS PARK.CONGRESS PARK.
DRAWING ROOM GRAND UNION.DRAWING ROOM GRAND UNION.
The entire length ofBroadwayis a magnificent drive andaffords an interesting and picturesque ride of some five minutes. About a mile north of Congress Hall the half-mile track and handsome grounds ofGlen Mitchel are located. The Saratoga County Agricultural Society have their buildings here. The track is open to all who wish, both pedestrians and carriages. At the base of a steep bluff, shaded with numerous trees, and directly facing the race-track, is the Glen Mitchel hotel. The grounds are maintained at great expense by the proprietors of the hotel, and when this and the short season of patronage is regarded, the prices for ordinary refreshments will not be considered as extraordinary as they might otherwise seem. The drive may be extended by turning to the east and driving round a small lake—Excelsior—and past the water-works, returning by Spring Avenue.
Thewalk through the woods to Excelsior Springis by far the most beautiful in Saratoga. To reachthe grove, pedestrians and carriages will pass along Lake Avenue a little past Circular street, when a small sign will be found pointing the way to the "Walk to Excelsior Spring." No tourist should fail to visit this place. A pleasant hour may be spent in the woods, after a stroll through which, the delicious water of the Excelsior will be refreshing indeed.
Is the gem of Saratoga. It consists of a small hill in the shape of a horseshoe, covered with handsome trees, and laid out in smooth walks encircling the low ground which surrounds the spring. The park is the property of the Congress and Empire Spring Co., who generously keep it in perfect repair, and open to the public.
UNION HOTEL AND GROUNDS.UNION HOTEL AND GROUNDS.
Those who are fond of "speckled beauties," and would like to obtain a fine mess without encountering the swarms of mosquitoes, gnats and sand flies that usually infest the region where the trout may be taken, should visit Gridley's. "Old Gridley," as he is familiarly called, formerly kept the Pavilion, near the depot. Some three or four years since he conceived the idea of starting a fish propagating establishment. His place is located in a beautiful little ravine, about one mile and a half from Congress Spring and just beyond the race-course. There may be seen myriads of speckled trout in a succession of small ponds situated along down the ravine, one below the other, supplied with water of the brilliancy of a crystal, gushing from the banks. It is a well known fact that the chief reason for this species of fish being so scarce, is because of their devouring each other, or, in other words, "big fish eating up little fish." Hence, Mr. Gridley, as well as other propagators, is obliged to separate them as to age and size—one-year olds in one pond, two-year olds in another, and so on down.
Visitors are very cordially received by Mr. G., and provided with fishing tackle, etc—and sometimes a bottle of Rhine wine gratis—and are duly informed that his prices are $1 per pound—that is, for every pound of fish caught, visitors can pay $1. The fish may be seen tantalizingly sporting and jumping out of the water two or three thousand at a time. For any one who contemplates indulging in the sport, and is willing to pay for it, this is the place to come.
A visit to the scene of the great battle of Saratoga, in October, 1777, which ended in the surrender of the British Army, under Burgoyne, to the Americans, under Gates, willoccupy a pleasant though somewhat long day's excursion. The battle was fought upon the elevated lands at Bemis Heights two miles from the Hudson, in the town of Stillwater, about 15 miles from Saratoga Springs.
INDIAN CAMP."SET UP A CENT"—INDIAN CAMP.
Visitors may obtain all desired information respecting the precise localities of the struggle from Cicerones on the spot.
The scene of the capitulation a few weeks subsequent to the battle, is a few miles further up the river.
In places that can boast but few objects of interest, is usually one of the chief places of resort. In Saratoga there are so many "show places" and peculiar attractions, that the cemetery visitors are limited principally to the resident population, and those who arm in arm, or hand in hand, stroll through its meandering paths, or while away their hours in its shady seats nurturing the tender passion.
The old cemetery is near the Empire Spring. The village cemetery proper is found east and south of Congress Park. In both may be found some curious inscriptions, and from the latter we transcribe the following additions to cemetery literature, with all respect for those whose memories are thus enshrined:
"My Engine is now cold and still,No water doth her boiler fill,The wood affords its flames no more,My days of usefulness are o'er."
"Rest here thou early call'd, in peace,'Till Jesus grant a sweet release."
"There's not an hourOf day or dreaming nights but I am with thee,And not a flower that sleeps beneath the moonBut in its hues or fragrance tells a tale of thee."
What seemed to us perhaps the most touching inscription, we found upon a stone bearing the date of 1792:
"This stone is raised by a daughter and only child, as a token of respectFor a mother whom she was too young to know, but whose virtuesShe humbly desires to imitate."
Among the outside diversions which every tourist, and especially every scientist, should visit is the steam mills of the Adirondack Verd-Antique Marble Co. The mills are situated in this village near the freight depot, though the quarries are in Thurman, on the Adirondack railroad. A very interesting peculiarity of this marble—which is quite beautiful—is, that it contains minute fossils of the earliest forms of existence known to scientific men—theEozoön Canadense. The marble is capable of a high polish, and makes beautiful ornaments.
Some one has said that the amusements of Saratoga life are dancing and drinking, the one exercise being the Omega as the other is the Alpha of its butterfly life. Saratoga, however,aboundsin amusements. There are the races at the race-course and on the lake; there are balls and hops every night; there are the Indians and the Circular railway, and drives in all directions; there are select parties and music by the bands, and shopping, and concerts, and, at thereligious houses, charades and tableaux, and prayer meetings; and what more could be asked?
Besides all these,
says that, "after going to Long Branch and frolicking in the water, he relishes going to Saratoga and letting the water frolic in him."
A correspondent gives the following
Rise and dress; go down to the spring; drink to the music of the band; walk around the park—bow to gentlemen; chat a little; drink again; breakfast; see who comes in on the train; take a siesta; walk in the parlor; bow to gentlemen; have a little small talk with gentlemen; have some gossip with ladies; dress for dinner; take dinner an hour and a half; sit in the grounds and hear the music of the band; ride to the lake; see who comes by the evening train; dress for tea; get tea; dress for the hop; attend the hop; chat awhile in the parlors, and listen to a song from some guest; go to bed. Varied by croquet, ladies' bowling alley, Indian camp, the mineral springs, grand balls twice a week, concerts, etc., and the races.
The three largest hotels have elegant ball-rooms, where hops take place every evening. Balls are held every week at each of the houses. Upon the latter occasion, the dressing becomes a matter of life and death, and explains why such numbers of those traveling arks known as "Saratoga trunks" are docked at the station every summer.
Balls are reported in the papers far and near, and the anxiety of some to secure a good report of their costume isamusing. Brown's dismay at the bills is somewhat appeased as he reads in the morning paper, "Miss Brown, of ——, a charming graceful blonde, was attired in a rich white corded silk, long train, with ruffles of the same, overdress of pink gros grain, loopeden panier, corsage low,decollette, with satin bows and point lace; haira la Pompadour, with curls on white feathers, pearls and diamonds.She was much admired.Miss Brown is the accomplished daughter of Mr. Brown, one of the leading citizens of the Metropolis."
The hops are free to all the guests. An admission of $1 is customary at the balls, and choice refreshments are served. Upon ball nights, the tasteful iron bridge which connects Congress Hall with its ball-room, and the grounds of the Grand Union, are illuminated by colored lights, presenting a fairy-like scene of bewildering beauty. Upon these occasions a large proportion of the population, both exotic and native, come forth as upon a festal day.
Occur the middle of July, and the second week in August, and are under the charge of the Saratoga Racing Association.
The race-course is about a mile from Congress Spring. It was laid out in 1866, by C.H. Ballard, an accomplished surveyor, and is unsurpassed, if equaled, by any race-course in America, not excepting the famous Fashion course on Long Island. The swiftest and most noted racers in the Union are brought here, and many of the most remarkable races known to sportsmen have occurred on these grounds.
A few steps from Congress Spring, directly past the Saratoga Club-House, leads you to a wicket gate marked "Circular, Railway and, Indian, Camp."
The Indians are not such as figure conspicuously in the early annals of our country and in our favorite romances—as Eli Perkins says—"far different!" They are simply a Canadian Gypsy band, part low French and part low Indian blood. They come here annually with an eye to business, and open their weird camp to the public simply as a speculation, offering for sale the various trinkets to which their labor is directed.
The white tents glistening among the green hemlocks, and the rustic lodges displaying the gayly decorated bow and quiver, make a picture somewhat attractive; but the Indians themselves are dirty and homely, and far from inviting in their appearance. The slim, blackeyed, barefooted boys, who pester you with petitions to "set up a cent," as a mark for their arrows, have a sort of Gypsy picturesqueness, however; and as one walks down the little street between the huts—half tent and half house—he may get an occasional glimpse of a pappoose swinging in a hammock, and thank his stars for even such a fractional view of the pristine life.
Is connected with the Indian Camp. An opportunity is here afforded for enthusiasts and very gallant gentlemen to test their strength and patience, by propelling themselves and friends round the circle in one of the cars. The recreation requires the expenditure of no little strength, and is only accomplished by the sweat of some one's brow, but it is preferable, doubtless, to "swinging round the circle."
Within a few feet of the Circular Railway is a spring of pure soft water. The water is quite drinkable, and is esteemed unusually pure and wholesome. The well water of the town is good, and the water from Excelsior Lake, which has lately been introduced throughout the village by the Holly system, is considered superior.
Abundant opportunity is afforded those who have occasion to visit emporiums of art and fashion on shopping designs intent. The flashing establishments under the large hotels, as well as several others in the village, cater entirely to the fashionable visitor. Everything desirable in the way of laces, feathers, diamonds and ornaments, and elegant dress goods are obtainable. It is the custom of many of the fashionable merchants andmodistesof New York to open here during the summer, branch establishments for the sale of their specialities. There are numerous resident stores also, which would not disgrace New York or Boston; among these the house of H. Van Deusen, on Broadway and Phila street, near the Post-Office, takes the lead. During the warm season, the Saratoga Broadway glitters with the brilliant display in shop windows, and the gorgeous exhibition of goods upon the sidewalks.
It is only in the evening that Saratoga is in full bloom. When—
"—— night throughout the gelid air,Veils with her sable wings the solar glare;When modest Cynthia clad in silver lightExpands her beauty on the brow of night,Sheds her soft beams upon the mountain side,Peeps through the wood and quivers on the tide,"
then faces light up with the gas lamps. The parlors begin to fill with elegantly attired ladies, the piazzas are thronged with chatty and sociable gentlemen, and the streets are crowded, far more than they are in the daytime, by pleasure strollers of either sex in elegant array. The ball-room becomes radiant with costly chandeliers whose effulgence is reflected by diamonds of the first water.
One dark evening, at the height of last season, in the midst of the preparations for a brilliant ball, the gas which supplies the whole village became suddenly exhausted. Candles were the only resource, and there was by some mischance a limited supply of these. Bottles were improvised for candlesticks, and stationed in the corners and on the pianos of the massive parlors, rendering the scene grotesque and ludicrous in the extreme, while the closer nestling of lovers and the solemn stillness reigning on every hand gave sublimity to the picture. The poet Saxe happened to be among the guests at Congress Hall, and borrowed a candle from a pretty young lady. The next morning she found under her door the following beautiful lines:
"You gave me a candle; I give you my thanks,And add, as a compliment justly your due,There is not a girl in these feminine ranksWho could, if she would, hold a candle to you."
Verily "darkness brings the stars to view." On this occasion there was no little "sparking," and though the flames of the gas lamps gave no light, love's flame burned brighter than ever.
Saratoga is not a "Country where the leaves never fall, and the eternal day is summer-time." As the gorgeous autumnal sunsets of October crown the golden-capped, or no longer verdant forests, the summer beauties prepare to return to their winter homes. The falling leaves in this vicinity are wondrously beautiful, and the cool sunsets will richly reward those who tarry to behold them; but "the season" is over, and the little town becomes almost a deserted village.
"Brightly, sweet Summer, brightly,Thine hours have floated by."
A shade of melancholy cannot but possess those who remain after the last polka is polked, the last light in the last ball-room is extinguished, and the summer ended. At length the railway engine whistles at long intervals; the mail-bags lose their plethora; the parish preachers, shorn of occasional help, knuckle to new sermons; the servants disperse; the head waiter retires to private life, and the dipper-boy disappears in the shades of the pine forests; the Indians pack up their duds, and, like the Arab, silently steal away; while the landlords retire within their sanctums to count over their hard-earned dollars.
After a time the village seems to become accustomed to the "new departure," and local politics, Tammany rings and frauds, and committees of forty agitate the public breast, until Spring returns and Saratoga blossoms again with new beauty.
Although Saratoga is preëminently a fashionable resort, and the city of vanity fair, it is nevertheless Cupid's summer-home; and lovers here acknowledge the first throbbings of that passion of bright hopes, and too many sad realities—love. The complaint is always heard that "fish don't bite this season;" but autumn comes, the butterflies return home, and then it is found that a goodly number have beencaught. Those not matrimonially inclined should know that a sojourn at a Spa is attended with considerable danger.
The poet says of Saratoga life:
"Saratoga society,What endless variety!What pinks of propriety!What gems of sobriety!What garrulous old folks,What shy folks and bold folks,And warm folks and cold folks!Such curious dressing,And tender caressing,(Of course that is guessing.)Such sharp Yankee Doodles,And dandified noodles,And other pet poodles!Such very loud patterns,(Worn often by slatterns!)Such strait necks, and bow necks,Such dark necks and snow necks,And high necks and low necks!With this sort and that sort,The lean sort and fat sort,The bright and the flat sort—Saratoga is crammed full,And rammed full, and jammed full," etc.
But while we laugh at Saratoga, its dancing, dressing and flirtation, it is yet not without its lessons for an observing eye.
"Here the heartMay give a useful lesson to the head,And Learning wiser grow without his books."
It is not all frivolity. Like every aspect of life, and like most persons, it is a hint and suggestion of something high and poetic. It is an oasis of repose in the desert of our American hurry. It is a perpetual festival.
Here we step out of the worn and weary ruts of city society, and mingle in a broad field of varied acquaintance. Here we may scent the fairest flowers of the South, and behold the beauty of our Northern climes. Here party distinctions and local rivalries are forgotten. Here, too, men mingle and learn from contact and sympathy, a sweeter temper and a more catholic consideration, so that the summer flower we went to wreath may prove not the garland of an hour, but a firmly linked chain in our American Union.
CLOSE OF THE SEASON AT SARATOGACLOSE OF THE SEASON AT SARATOGA
When the previous forms went to press, we were unable to give any satisfactory and reliable statement of the Spouting Springs recently discovered in the vicinity of the Geyser. We present, below, such information as we are able to give in regard to them at this time, hoping to render our description more complete in future editions of this work.
This recently discovered Spouting Spring is located on the north side of the road near the Geyser. The vein was struck in January of the present year. The depth of the well is about 150 feet. The water spouts about fifteen feet above the surface. Present appearances seem to indicate that the spring is chalybeate, though the mineral ingredients are not large. We are unadvised in reference to the plans regarding it. Messrs. Verbeck and Gilbert are the proprietors.
Is located in the ramble between the railroad and the Geyser Spring, and near the Ellis Spring.
On the 17th of June of the present year, at almost the identical hour in which Mr. Gilmore opened his Peace Jubilee, a new mineral fountain—a spouting spring—gushed forth from its deep origin in mother earth to rejuvenate and bless mankind. The gas is so abundant that if the orifice of the tube is closed for a few moments sufficient force will accumulate to blow a steam whistle. It has not been christened at present. We suggest that it be called the "Gilmore Spring."The well is over a hundred feet deep, and the water rises about thirty feet above the surface. The water is strongly saline, and will probably be classed among the cathartic waters. It bears a strong resemblance to the celebrated Geyser. The proprietors inform me that several of their acquaintances have already experienced benefit from this water. The spring promises to be valuable. The public will look with interest to know into whose management the spring passes, as the proprietors are plain farmers and intend to commit the spring to more experienced hands, who will introduce it to the public favor. A neat bottling house and a tasteful colonnade are already being constructed. Prof. Chandler will probably make the analysis at an early date.
The spring owned by Mr. Duell, of the Waverly House, is beyond the Geyser, and on the margin of the pond. We are unable to present reliable information in regard to this spring, as it has just been discovered by Mr. Jesse Button.
The mother of all these spouting wells—the Geyser Spring—is rearing quite a family of interesting children. We have heard it predicted that the time is not very distant when every citizen of Saratoga will have a mineral fountain in his door-yard. At present no successful efforts have been made to obtain a spouting spring in the village. We know of no reason to render success impossible or improbable. Certainly, "'tis a consummation devoutly to be wished," and we should be glad to see a fair trial of the experiment.
H. VAN DEUSEN,RESIDENT STORE,(ESTABLISHED 15 YEARS,)124 & 126 BROADWAY, SARATOGA,Would call the attention of strangers, as well as citizens, to his large and elegant assortment ofSTAPLE AND FANCY DRY GOODS.He keeps constantly on hand all theNovelties of the Seasons,Rich Silks, Fine Dress Goods, Kid Gloves, Hosiery, Jewelry, Parasols, Umbrellas, Real Laces, Cashmeres, Cloths, and everything to be found in a First Class Dry Goods House.I have only one price, sell exclusively for cash, and the only one price cash house in Saratoga.NO TROUBLE TO SHOW GOODS.Remember the Store, Next to the Bank, 124 & 126 Broadway,
H. VAN DEUSEN.
PEOPLE'S LINE STEAMERSFOR NEW YORK.St. John, Drew, Dean Richmond.One of these STEAM PALACES will leave Albany every evening (Sundays excepted), on arrival of the evening trains on the Rensselaer and Saratoga, New York Central and Albany & Susquehanna Railroads.Hand pointing rightHudson River Railroad Tickets good for State Room Passage,BAGGAGE CHECKED THROUGH.SARATOGA OFFICE, 1st DOOR NORTH OF CONGRESS HALL,Where State Rooms can be secured Daily.F.D. WHEELER, Jr., Agent.J.W. HARCOURT, Agent,Saratoga Springs.Albany.
One of these STEAM PALACES will leave Albany every evening (Sundays excepted), on arrival of the evening trains on the Rensselaer and Saratoga, New York Central and Albany & Susquehanna Railroads.
B.F. JUDSON,Publisher,D.F. RITCHIE,Editor."The SARATOGIAN,"DAILY AND WEEKLY,Office in St. Nicholas Building,Corner Broadway and Phila Street,SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y.TheSaratogianis one of the best Advertising Mediums in this section, as it has a circulation more than double that of all the Republican press of Saratoga County combined.The facilities of theSaratogianOffice for the prompt execution ofFirst Class Job Work,are equal to those of any in the city, and all work is done at reasonable figures.
TheSaratogianis one of the best Advertising Mediums in this section, as it has a circulation more than double that of all the Republican press of Saratoga County combined.
TheEureka Spring Company'spureWhite Sulphur Spring, discovered last Summer is now open for visitors. The Water is
in this State, and FAR SUPERIOR to most of them.
The Company has erected a pleasant
Single Bath Tickets,Fifty Cents.Coupon Tickets, good for 12 Baths,Five Dollars.
EUREKA SPRING CO.
The trip betweenBoston and Saratogais made in one of the
provided by this Line—a luxury which cannot be enjoyed on any other route, this being theonly Linerunningthrough DayandDrawing Room Carsbetween these points.
Boston Office,
C.A. FAXON, Gen. Agent.
By promptness, industry and fair dealing, we aim to merit the confidence and give satisfaction to those who may entrust their business to our charge.
WM. M. SEARING & SON.
CONGRESS HALL."CONGRESS HALL."' HATHORN & SOUTHGATE, Proprietors.