The History of the Hudson River Valley: From Wilderness to the Civil War

This book is a great example of historical research. New York became the Empire State because of the the Hudson Valley and the Erie Canal which connected NY, economically speaking, to the heartland of the US. I have lived in the Valley since the mid 50's and was astounded by what little I knew. I have been to many of the places mentioned in the book. The history surrounding those places I had some knowledge of, but many of them I was unaware of there significance in regards to the growth of this country. The Hudson river is being used again today to transport oil, in barges, to refineries in New Jersey. People opposed to this cite the problems of flora and fauna being destroyed if a barge should leak for a myriad of proposed reasons. They would rather have pipe lines installed. The belief is, what you don't see won't harm you. They forget, that a barge carries a finite amount of material that when leaked, would float on the water and would cause harm. A pipeline can carry an infinite amount of material and, since it is underground, no one would know, unless it was a massive leak, until it came to the surface. Very small leaks would go undetected for long periods of time infecting ground water that might not be noticed for years. Of course if there was a large leak it would be noticed. How much damage that would result would almost be impossible to determine.If you read this book you will understand the importance to this country that this river was and still is.

This is a well-researched, intelligent account of the history of the Hudson Valley. At a special library lecture program, I listened to the author describe how he approached the topic, for example, starting with geology, which is how trails were made. Society grew around these travel routes. Totally fascinating, although a very dense read. I digest each paragraph slowly, but with great delight and satisfaction.

A most informative history of this region, in this time. Organized, a good read.

The book is wonderful; interesting, written well and I want to see the sites mentioned. I bought it used, but it took 5 weeks to arrive. I bought it to read on a trip, it missed that deadline and I had to buy something else. Will not buy from that vendor again.

There are actually two books with the same title, this is the one with the earlier history. Well written, well researched, very thorough. If you consider yourself interested in details, this is your book.

A thoroughly researched and enjoyable book about a fascinating part of America....so loved by those who dwell there.Mr Benjamin is a true historian - able to present facts and material which fascinate.

Purchased as a gift.

Excellent book so far. Half way through. Ties in well with "City of Dreams"