Reflections on the Class

As a history major and real estate buff, I have always had an interest in the development of cities and industry, particularly in the New York Metropolitan region. However, I did not fully understand the impact that the completion of the Erie Canal had on the greater New York region and industry in America in general until I took Professor Paquette's 19th Century America class last spring. I was intrigued by the intense battle led by DeWitt Clinton to create the Canal, realizing that many similar battles occur over development still occur today. "Friendly debate" throughout the semester with some of my classmates has also allowed me to understand how rough the process of development can be.
Studying the rise and fall of several cities along the river, such as Troy, Newburgh, and Hudson, has further increased my interest in property and development. I plan to follow the development plans in Newburgh and in Yonkers, seeing if those cities can be fixed up like other cities along the river, such as Jersey City and Hoboken. The boat ride along the river allowed me to experience firsthand the beauty of the River itself, of Bannerman's Island, of Storm King Mountain, of West Point, and of Washington's Headquarters. In conclusion, this class gave me a broad perspective on the issues of development and the environment, and also tought me many interesting things about the history of the River and it's surrounding cities. While class was at times heated, I am glad that I was able to discuss important issues with people of diverse ideology. It's amazing how a river that was intially thought of as just a "wrong turn," has had such an amazing history, and is still under the spotlight for the future.