1903 Map of Phoenicia

About this map

Phoenicia and the surrounding high peaks of the Catskills appear here at the opening of the twentieth century, anchored by the winding course of Esopus Creek. The map documents a landscape defined by sharp elevations and deep cloves, where narrow valleys dictate the path of settlements like Pine Hill, Shandaken, and Allaben. In this era, the region served as a prominent mountain retreat, evidenced by landmarks such as the Grand Hotel near Highmount and the remote Winnisook Lodge at the foot of Slide Mountain. Along the eastern edge, the industrial and transport corridor through Stony Clove Creek connects Chichester and Lanesville, while the rail route follows the Esopus, stopping at Mt Pleasant Station. The map captures the intricate drainage patterns of the Schoharie Creek and Beaver Kill systems before later reservoir projects would fundamentally alter the water levels in these valleys.