The Hudson River Maritime Museum has announced the upcoming lecture “Lost Amusement Parks of the Hudson Valley,” by Wes and Barbara Gottlock, held virtually on Wednesday, February 9 at 7 p.m.
Did you know? Amusement parks of all sizes once dotted the shores of the Hudson River, many at or near major Hudson River steamboat landings. Carousels, Ferris wheels, roller coasters and rides stood alongside swimming pools, boat rentals and bandstands. With its population growth and its close proximity to New York City, the Hudson Valley was a natural setting for these popular parks, which lined both sides of the Hudson before the turn of the 20th century. Tourists and locals alike were transported to the parks, first by Hudson River steamboat or trolley car and later by automobile.
In this virtual lecture, local historians Wes and Barbara Gottlock, authors of the book Lost Amusement Parks of the Hudson Valley, will highlight some of the impactful parks that reigned as recreation Meccas for millions of people for over 50 years. The Gottlocks are retired educators who developed an avid interest in local history. They have co-written six books on Hudson Valley and New York City history. Wes is just now finishing a solo book about Manhattan’s East Village. Their website is www.gottlockbooks.com.
Tickets cost $7 for the general public and are free for Hudson River Maritime Museum members. To register, visit www.hrmm.org/lecture-series.
Join the family! 
