Fire Towers of the Catskills: Their History and Lore

Martin Podskoch

This fascinating chronicle of Catskill Mountain fire towers includes the history of the towers that once stood vigil over the heavily forested slopes, serving those on the lookout for signs of smoke that could lead to devastating fires. It also contains many period pictures of the towers and folks responsible for this often lonely, rugged work. Increasing from three in 1909 (Hunter, Belleayre, and Balsam Lake) to twenty-three by 1950, the towers gradually gave way to aerial surveillance, and then reports by the public. In 1990 Red Hill Tower was the last to close in the Catskills. The book also describes the restoration of five towers by local volunteers in neighboring towns. Softcover, 136 pages, trim size 8.5 x 11 inches. Published by Podskoch Press in 2012. ISBN: 9780979497957.