Carolyn F. Stephenson
Letchworth State Park is located in the western section of New York state, along the Genesee River. It is named after William Pryor Letchworth, a successful merchant from Buffalo. He was looking for a house in the country and fell in love with the area near the Genesse gorge. He was impressed by the two waterfalls and decided that this was the place for him. This restful area of river and gorge might remind some of the Grand Canyon in Colorado, due to the powers of erosion in both places. Yet, a person does not become overwhelmed at Lecthworth as one might while visiting the Grand Canyon.
In 1859, Lecthworth built his home called “Glen Iris” overlooking one of the falls. He eventually gathered about 1000 acres. Later he gave them to the state for “enjoyment and posterity”. More than 12,000 acres have been added to the park.
This park is a available for recreation and has a note of history included. Swimming, hiking, relaxing are on the agenda if you visit this state park.
THE NORTHEAST
(figure available in print form)
