19th century Fort Edward — Stage coach line kicks it up a notch

There was steady improvement of stage coach service connecting Fort Edward with surrounding communities in the 19th century.

“The stage line between Glens Falls and Fort Edward has put on a new top wagon which will add very much to the comfort of the traveling public,” The Commercial Advertiser of Sandy Hill reported on June 8, 1881.

On Jan. 30, 1890, The Morning Star of Glens Falls reported that a new stage coach service began operating between Fort Edward and Schuylerville.

In other 19th century Fort Edward news collected from historic newspapers of the region:

• “There will be a foot race tomorrow afternoon between a well-known clothier and a popular grain dealer from East Street corner to the corner of Mill Street. It will be for a purse of five dollars,” the Fort Edward correspondent reported in The Morning Star on Aug. 9, 1889.
• “Davis & Co’s new shirt factory at Fort Edwrd is in running orders and already employs a number of hands,” — The Commercial Advertiser reported on Oct. 13, 1880

The new factory attracted workers from out of town.

“It is said that forty-five Troy girls landed in Fort Edward last week to be employed in the new shirt factory,” The Commercial Advertiser reported on Dec. 1.

• It was not the only economic development in town.

“It is said that Fort Edward is to have a new industry in the shape of a paperware manufacturer,” The Commercial Advertiser reported on March 9, 1881. “Cups, saucers, plates and, in fact, dishes of all shapes and styles will be made from paper and treated with certain chemicals which gives them the apperance of porcelain.”

• “The Episcopal Church of Fort Edward is to have a new organ, the gift of Cashter Hitchcok of that place.” — The Commercial Advertiser reported ,Nov.17,1880.
• “Marbles have made their appearance and the boys are happy,” the Fort Edward correspondent reported in The Morning Star on Feb.13, 1890.

And men were happy to have winter employment.

“J.H. Keech commenced yesterday to harvest his supply of ice. It is from ten to twelve inches thick in the river above the dam.”

• The Commercial Advertiser on Jan. 19, 1891 reported that about 25 couples attendd a surprise party at the home of Miss Josie Allen.

“Tillotson’s Orchestra from Glens Falls furnished the music. An enjoyable time was had by all present.”

• Fort Edward church fundraisers netted a combined total of $295 — the equivalent of $8,584 in 2023 dollars — in one week.

“The Presbyterians made $80 and the Baptists $85 at their strawbrry socials last wek. The Episcopals netted $30 at their mite society, and the Catholics $100 at their fair,” The Commercial Advertiser reported June 29,1881.

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