In recognition of America250, our nation’s 250th birthday, the Alfred University Reunion Bikers have chosen the historic Saratoga Springs, NY, as their pedal off point for this year’s journey back to campus. The area offers a unique variety of historical, cultural, and recreational opportunities. The city’s official slogan is “Health, History, and Horses.”
Saratoga Springs’ name has Native American (Iroquois/Mohawk) roots with meanings like “hillside of the great river,” “place of swift water,” or “sparkling water” reflecting the presence of several natural, carbonated, mineral springs in the area. Before the arrival of Europeans, the Mohawk Indigenous people used the area as prime hunting ground. The British built Fort Saratoga in 1691 on the west bank of the Hudson River near present day Schuylerville. Settlers from Europe began to develop the area during the early part of the 1700s. Development of the railroads in the mid-1800s greatly contributed to the area’s growth; especially the tourism industry. Saratoga Race Course (oldest horse race course in the country) opened in 1863. By 1870 Saratoga Springs was a top, upscale resort supported by the natural mineral springs, horse racing, gambling, and luxury hotels. Most of the gambling facilities were located on Saratoga Lake, on the southeast side of the city.
Today Saratoga’s largest attractions include Saratoga Race Course known as the “August Place to Be.” While it might not be as glamorous as big brother, Churchill Downs, it’s just as historic, offering a charming, relaxed, and unique traditional vibe. Another popular attraction is Saratoga Spa State Park which includes the mineral springs, classical bath and spa houses, the Saratoga Performing Arts Center, the Gideon Putnam Resort & Spa, and two golf courses. The bath and spa houses were opened in the 1930’s under President Franklin Roosevelt’s New-Deal-era sponsorship using programs like the Works Progress Administration (WPA).
Why was Saratoga Springs chosen as the pedal off point? Saratoga Historical National Park is home of a pivotal battle in the Revolutionary War. Actually, two major engagements were fought here. General George Washington was not at either battle. The first battle (Freeman’s Farm) was fought on September 19, 1777. The British won the field but suffered heavy casualties. The second battle (Bemis Heights) was fought on October 7, 1777. The British, led by General John Burgoyne (known as Gentleman Johnny), planned on marching south from Quebec, Canada and rendezvous in Albany (35 miles south of Saratoga Springs) with reinforcements marching north from New York City and east from Lake Ontario. The strategic plan was to take control of the Hudson River Valley thereby isolating New England from the rest of the colonies. When the reinforcements failed to show up, and with dwindling supplies, a desperate Burgoyne attacked on October 7. The Americans again inflicted heavy casualties and ultimately trapped and surrounded the British. General Burgoyne surrendered his entire army of over 5,000 troops on October 17, 1777. The battle was a decisive American victory and turned the tide of the war by convincing the French to provide military and financial support to the Americans.
The group will start gathering in Saratoga Springs the weekend before Reunion Weekend on Saturday, June 6. The first bike ride will take place on Sunday, June 7. Riders will bike three days in the Saratoga area before moving on to the Finger Lakes area with a final “Victory Ride” Friday morning, June 12, into Alfred from Hornell with an anticipated arrival at the King Alfred Statue at noon. Stay tuned for future announcements in E-news concerning the ride and who is participating.
Organizers welcome alumni, faculty and staff, students, and friends to join the bicyclists as they ride through your local area, or for part or all of the trip. The group also enjoys having lunch or dinner with friends of the University throughout its travels. Anyone interested in taking part in Friday’s “Victory Ride” that needs accommodations in Hornell is encouraged to make reservations early as the area hotels quickly fill up. Please email Jim Randall ’77 at [email protected] for additional information.
