Welcome to the Port Jervis Watershed Park and Recreation Area, a serene escape nestled in the city of Port Jervis, New York. This area is not only a beautiful spot for hiking and nature exploration but also carries a rich historical backdrop. The city of Port Jervis itself is named after John Bloomfield Jervis, a notable civil engineer who was instrumental in the construction of the Delaware and Hudson Canal in the 19th century. The canal played a pivotal role in the transportation of coal, fostering economic growth by connecting northeastern Pennsylvania’s coal fields to the bustling markets of New York and New England.
Port Jervis has a storied past that intertwines with America’s early industrial history. Its strategic location at the confluence of the Neversink and Delaware rivers made it a key point for trade and transport, especially during the era when canals and railroads were the main arteries of commerce. In 1828, the Delaware and Hudson Canal opened, transforming the area into a thriving hub of activity.
The city was officially incorporated in 1907, but its roots date back to the late 1600s when Dutch and English settlers established one of the first European settlements here. Known initially as Mahackamack, after a Lenape word, it faced significant challenges during the American Revolutionary War, including being raided and burned by British and Mohawk forces under Joseph Brant in 1779. The resilient settlers rebuilt, and over time, the area developed robust infrastructure.
Port Jervis was once a bustling railroad town, serving as a division center for the Erie Railroad. The railroad era brought a wave of prosperity, although it also hastened the decline of the canal. Today, the remnants of these historical transportation routes are part of the area’s charm, offering glimpses into the past.
As you explore the Port Jervis Watershed Park and Recreation Area, imagine the vibrant history that unfolded here. The park is a testament to the natural beauty and historical significance of the region, a place where you can walk in the footsteps of those who shaped the area’s destiny.
