From Revolutionary Roots to Ivy League Heights:
The Story of Ithaca
Long before it became synonymous with waterfalls and college-town charm, Ithaca was carved into history by Revolutionary War veterans. In 1789, surveyor Simeon DeWitt laid out the town as part of the Military Tract, land granted to soldiers in lieu of pay. Nestled at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca’s strategic location made it a hub for trade and travel.
The 19th century saw Ithaca blossom, with the establishment of Cornell University in 1865 marking a turning point. The university attracted scholars worldwide, infusing the town with intellectual vigor. Meanwhile, the natural beauty of the area such as its gorges and waterfalls became both a draw for visitors and a source of local pride.
Today, Ithaca stands as a testament to its layered past. From its Revolutionary beginnings to its academic prominence, the town’s history is etched into its very landscape, inviting exploration and appreciation.
Photo by Oliver Kliewe – https://www.flickr.com/photos/53855395@N04/5399411577/sizes/l/in/photostream/
Waterfalls, Wine, and Wonder
Ithaca isn’t just “gorges” by slogan, it’s a sensory delight. Start your adventure at Taughannock Falls State Park, where a 215-foot waterfall plunges into a serene pool, surpassing even Niagara in height. Nearby, Buttermilk Falls offers cascading waters and inviting swimming holes.
Downtown, the Ithaca Commons buzzes with energy. This pedestrian mall boasts eclectic shops, diverse eateries, and vibrant street performances. For a taste of local flavor, the Ithaca Farmers Market showcases regional produce, crafts, and live music along the waterfront.
Wine enthusiasts can explore the Cayuga Lake Wine Trail, sampling award-winning vintages amidst picturesque vineyards. And don’t miss the Cornell Botanic Gardens, a living museum of flora that offers tranquility and education in equal measure.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, savoring local wines, or soaking in the cultural scene, Ithaca offers a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to every traveler.
Famous Footprints:
Icons Who Called Ithaca Home
Ithaca’s influence extends beyond its borders, having nurtured talents who’ve left indelible marks on the world. Astronomer Carl Sagan, renowned for making the cosmos accessible to all, taught at Cornell and resided in a distinctive Egyptian Revival home overlooking Fall Creek.
Author Alex Haley, celebrated for his groundbreaking work “Roots,” spent formative years in Ithaca, drawing inspiration from its rich cultural tapestry. Similarly, novelist David Foster Wallace, known for his complex narratives, was born here, adding to the town’s literary legacy.
In the realm of entertainment, Bob Iger, former CEO of The Walt Disney Company, honed his skills at Ithaca College, laying the foundation for a storied career in media.
These figures, among others, underscore Ithaca’s role as a cradle of creativity and innovation, where ideas are nurtured and dreams take flight.
Ithaca’s Haunted Corners:
Ghosts, Gorges, and Grit
Beneath Ithaca’s picturesque facade lies a tapestry of eerie tales and haunted locales. The City Cemetery, dating back to the 19th century, is rumored to be home to restless spirits, with visitors reporting unexplained whispers and shadowy figures among the tombstones.
The legend of Edward Rulloff adds a chilling chapter to Ithaca’s history. A 19th-century scholar turned murderer, Rulloff’s intellect was matched only by his dark deeds. His brain, preserved for study, remains one of the largest on record, fueling both scientific curiosity and ghostly lore.
Cayuga Lake, too, has its mysteries. Tales of sea serpents and phantom drums echo across its waters, captivating imaginations and keeping the spirit of folklore alive.
For thrill-seekers and history buffs alike, Ithaca offers a hauntingly good time, where the past lingers just beneath the surface.
Photo of Library https://www.flickr.com/photos/eflon/2874341070/
Photo of Gourd from https://www.gourdlandia.com/
Photo Purity Ice Cream https://www.purityicecream.com/
Ithaca’s Hidden Gems:
Where Quirky Meets Cool
Beyond its well-trodden paths, Ithaca brims with delightful oddities. At Cornell University, the A.D. White Library enchants visitors with its Gothic architecture and literary treasures, resembling a scene straight out of a fantasy novel.
For a taste of the unconventional, Gourdlandia showcases whimsical creations crafted from gourds, blending art and agriculture in the most unexpected ways.
Music lovers can delve into the Cornell Hip Hop Collection, the world’s largest archive of hip-hop culture, preserving the genre’s rich history and evolution.
And for a sweet slice of history, Pureity Ice Cream operating since 1936, serves up classic flavors that have stood the test of time.
These hidden gems embody Ithaca’s eclectic spirit, inviting visitors to explore, discover, and delight in the unexpected.