Ithaca and its resources : being an historical and descriptive sketch of the "Forest city" and its magnificent scenery, glens, falls, ravines, Cornell University, and the principal manufacturing and commercial interests

Preface

When work was begun on Ithaca and its Resources- it was my intention to devote a large share of my space to the history of Ithaca, but upon consultation with several prominent citizens, it was deemed advisable that, as the history of Ithaca had been written several times, more or less accurately, and as those features which should give to Ithaca a national, a world wide reputation, have been neglected, less space should be devoted to the history and more to a description of its magnificent scenery— its attractive surroundings. Accordingly I have given largely of my space to a description of Ithaca and its surroundings — fully aware of the fact, however, that my feeble attempt in this direction cannot do it justice and may not prove satisfactory to readers or critics — merely outlining the history of the village and dividing-the entire space as nearly equal as possible between the description of its surroundings and its resources. Cornell University forming a subject of deep interest to every resident of Ithaca, as well as to many people throughout the State and land, claimed laigely my attention, but I do not think any one will regret that so much space has been given the noble institution. Of the sketches relating to its resources — the manufacturing and mercantile interests of Ithaca — little1 else need be said than that the statements made therein can be relied upon as being only just and accurate. Many, in fact nearly all, of the sketches relating to the mercantile iutpje^ts were; written by a gentleman residing in Ithaca and possessing an intimate acquaihrah#^. fvwi'ifb : its merchants, and his instructions were “be careful that no statements are made that you cannot substantiate,” and I believe they were fully carried out. Of course it was impossible within the limits of the work to review every manufacturing and mercantile establishment, but an opportunity was given every leading manufacturer and merchant to be represented in the book, and I regret that a few did not avail themselves of the opportunity ; but I am pleased to state that the number of those thus refusing to do their part towards making the woik complete and a success are very few indeed, and I feel that it is complete withw out them — that the showing made by the enterprising representatives of the industrial and commercial interests, who availed themselves of the opportunity, reflects the greatest credit upon themselves and the “Forest City, ” and that no exceptions can be taken to my assertions. Although written very hurriedly. I have been careful to verify such statements as might be questioned, and am confident that the entire work is as reliable and accurate as such a book can be made. Where so many have given their encouragment and assistance, it is impossible to make personal mention of each, and, therefore, I will conclude these prefatory remarks by simply saying that all who have, aided me by either word or deed have my sincerest thanks.

D. M. K.

Ithaca, October, 1883.