Glenwood Inn (Hornellsville, New York) facts for kids
The Glenwood Inn was a very popular summer resort in New York State. It was known as the best place for fun and relaxation near the city of Hornell. This exciting park was about 2 miles (3.2 km) south of Hornell (which was called Hornellsville back then). It was also about 3 miles (4.8 km) north of Canisteo. You could find it in a small community called South Hornell.
Discovering Glenwood Inn
The Glenwood Inn was a huge park, covering 25 acres (10 hectares) of land. It was built by the owners of the Hornellsville & Canisteo Electric Railroad. This company ran electric trains, and they wanted more people to ride their trains. So, they bought a beautiful piece of land with woods and a river. Their idea was to create a fun place for people to visit. This would encourage more people to use their train service. The electric train line started in 1892, and the Glenwood Inn opened its doors in 1895.
Fun Activities at the Inn
Glenwood Inn was packed with exciting things to do for everyone.
- Dance Hall and Skating Rink: There was a large building where you could dance or roller skate.
- Bandstand: A special stage was set up for live music. Bands from Canisteo and other nearby towns would play concerts.
- Merry-Go-Round: Kids and adults loved riding the classic merry-go-round.
- Picnic Areas: Lots of picnic tables were available for families to enjoy meals outdoors.
- Tennis Court: If you liked sports, you could play a game of tennis.
- Boating: The Inn had a boathouse where you could rent rowboats. These boats were used on a small, artificial lake. This lake was made by building a small dam on the Canisteo River.
- Swimming and Hiking: Boys often swam in the river, and there were trails for hiking up the hills.
A Place for Everyone
The Glenwood Inn was a busy place every day. Many groups and families would visit for concerts, banquets, dances, and picnics. It was a safe and friendly environment, as no alcohol was served at the Inn. On Sundays, special excursion trains would bring visitors directly to the park. The Inn was a seasonal attraction, meaning it was closed during the cold winter months.
The End of an Era
Sadly, the entire Glenwood Inn complex was destroyed by a big fire in 1923. This fire brought an end to one of the most beloved summer resorts in the area.
