See Phila and Caroline streets with new eyes this Sunday
This week’s Summer Stroll hits “The Gut” to learn about Hattie, the Jewish boarding house boom, and “Mother” Goldsmith.
This exciting Positively Saratoga news is brought to you by our friends at the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
Exploring Saratoga’s beautiful neighborhoods on foot is the perfect way to enjoy its beauty – and learn the history that makes it so special. This week, the Preservation Foundation’s Summer Stroll explores “The Gut,” which was brought to life via working-class and Jewish families. The area behind Broadway — including Phila and Caroline streets — has a rich history that you won’t learn about simply walking past on your way to dinner or cocktail hour.
"As new businesses continue to open and storefronts change along Phila, Putnam and Caroline streets, it’s important to remember how this area began—and how we’re still honoring that history today by reusing the historic buildings,” says Sydney Hedge, the foundation’s Preservation & Programs Coordinator. “These days, people value the idea of reusing old buildings instead of tearing them down. On this tour, we’ll also take a moment to talk about what used to stand where the parking garages are now."
The 90-minute tour starts Sunday, July 20 at 10:30 a.m. (meet at the northwest corner of Putnam and Spring streets, at the historic Hathorn Spring). You’ll wander the same streets where grocers sold kosher meats beside oyster houses, where bathhouses promised cures for everything from insomnia to indigestion, and where summer boarders came seeking both mineral waters and a welcoming community.
Have you ever dug into a plate of fried chicken at the legendary Hattie’s? On this tour, you’ll also learn the one-and-only Hattie Moseley Austin’s story, plus detail on the Jewish boarding house boom, and how “Mother” Goldsmith stayed up late-night to serve sundaes to celebs and locals. These residents played an essential role in the development of the city, contributing significantly to its cultural and economic life.
“Down in the Valley: Exploring the Gut” is sponsored by the Olde Bryan Inn; the series is sponsored by Druthers Brewing Company and Stewart’s Shops. July 27’s theme is “Horsin’ Around North Broadway.”
Tours are limited to 30 participants. The cost per tour is $15 for SSPF members and $20 for non-members. There are no physical tickets; your name will be on a list at check-in. Foundation members with stroll passes can contact the Foundation’s office to book their Sunday Summer Stroll before the date they choose. To register, visit saratogapreservation.org or call (518) 587-5030.
Positively Saratoga stories are commissioned by the Saratoga County Chamber of Commerce.
