Day Trip to Paterson's Great Falls National Historical Park

A large waterfall exists in Paterson NJ 

and was used to spur the Industrial Revolution here

by powering the mills in town.

The falls are touted as the largest, 

as measured by volume,

 east of the Mississippi River - 

second only to Niagara Falls. 

They are also the centerpiece 

for a National Historic Park. 

Alexander Hamilton 

is credited with the vision 

of creating an industrial city 

in Paterson to help 

support our young nation. 

Hamilton founded the City of Paterson in 1792 

and manufacturing businesses

based on hydro-power evolved. 

Today,  the falls are a means of renewable energy 

produced at a hydro-electric plant on the property.  

The falls are within 20 miles of 

New York City, 

if that's your kind of thing. 

I am so done with New York. 

 I preferred visiting 

Lambert Castle 

former home to 

a silk manufacturer. 

The Paterson Museum 

has collections documenting 

the city's industrial history. 

Hinchcliffe Stadium 

built 1932 

is undergoing restoration. 

Regrettably I did not visit these places 

so I added them to my bucket list. 

Dey Mansion 

built in the 1770s. 

Saddle River County Park 

has a walking and cycling trail 7 miles long, 

which takes you over five different bridges.

Garrett Mountain Reservation 

is said the be an easy place spot 

many species of birds.

Paterson City Hall and 

the County Courthouse 

are of architectural interest. 

Note:  I did not feel completely safe in Paterson City, 

so stick to the tourist locations and be aware.

 My galleries for Paterson NJ are here: 

Falls 2020

Lambert Castle 2013

Visiting The Great Falls in Winter, Paterson, NJ

I find it truly amazing how,

when I am interested in something,

I just don't notice the cold.

When focused on getting a series of shots

I can stand outside for hours... 

complains a certain husband. 

And let's just say this trip was especially cold.

With the added mist freezing to all the surfaces
walking was treacherous.

The same mist covered my sunglasses, camera and lens
making visibility impossible.

So I more or less aimed, shot and hoped for the best.
Mental note: Next time cover the camera and bring a lens cloth.

Fortunately, a certain husband wore his ski gear so he was plenty warm.
If only the camera wasn't getting wet then I would have had more time....

The Great Falls
Passaic River
Paterson, NJ

The falls are a National Historical Park.  There is no charge to view the falls, walk around them and on the pedestrian bridges.  There are other things to do in Paterson, just be aware it is a high crime area so be attentive to your surroundings. For info click here. 

That Whole Downton Abbey Thing....

Are you hooked?

I am. 

But I already know the spoiler of how Season 3 ends...

although I refuse to watch the episodes before they air in the USA. 

I think it is kind of ironic though...
that America is so wrapped up in this series.



It seems we Americans are conflicted
over our feelings about the rich people we love to hate.



I am in the camp the believes wealthy people add value.
Just look at what they leave behind for us to enjoy!



And seriously, who are you going to tax
if you destroy those making lots of taxable income?



Oh, I'm not trying to make any enemies...
I just really liked touring this old mansion
and getting lost in the old world that once was.
Kind of like an American Downton Abbey.



Lambert Castle 
In 1851 at the age of 17 
Catholina Lambert left England for America, 
the "Land of Opportunity." 
Lambert became successful in the silk industry in New Jersey 
and built this home in Paterson, NJ 
to house his collection of art. 
But in 1913 debt found him and he had to sell his art 
and mortgage his home 
where he continued to live until he died in 1923. 
The property now belongs to Passaic County 
and can be toured for a small fee. 

View the photo gallery here.  

Read about the nearby water fall here.