The Legacy of Mount Ida

Troy New York’s Mount Ida, now Prospect Park, is a relict of the last glacial episode in North America, and has a unique history of private to public ownership during Troy’s 200 years of existence. Named for its Greek forbearer Mount Ida has a commanding view of the Hudson Valley. Overlooking the flood plain of the Hudson River and with a view of 25 miles on a clear day, Mount Ida was the private repose of some of Troy’s earliest settlers including the Wilson Brothers, Samuel and Ebenezer. Samuel went on to become “Uncle” Sam, the nation’s iconic caricature. This book traces the history of Mount Ida from its geological origins to its present condition with a call to restore the park.