100 years ago the Harriman family gave $1 million and 10,000 acres of land to the State of New York, forming the backbone of Harriman and Bear Mountain State Parks - part of the Palisades Interstate Park.The state had planned to build a prison on terraced land along the river at Bear Mountain. Historic Forts Clinton and Montgomery, as well as the scenic lands surrounding Bear Mountain itself, became a real possibility. Orange County residents Edward Henry Harriman and his wife Mary Averell Harriman ardently resisted this plan. Edward died unexpectedly at 61 and the gift was presented by his 18 year old son, the future Governor W. Averill Harriman. For more on the history, importance, sights, and facilities of the great parks, go the the Palisades Parks Conservancy.
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