James Fenimore Cooper

“ Bowers determined to reside on his property, and to build at this spot. He came into the village in 1803, accordingly, where he resided, for a short time, and commenced the construction of the present house at Lakelands. ‘This building was erected in 1804, and its proprietor took possession of it in 1805. Since that time it has continued to be the residence of the gentleman who caused the house to be built. This place is not within the limits of Cooperstown, or even in the township of Otsego, but standing within musket shot of the former, its inhabitants properly belong to our community. ”

“ Cisterns for the collection of water have been sunk in the streets; hooks and ladders, fire buckets and hose are provided, and ,considering the size of the place, the provisions against fire are respectable. The firemen have usually been found active and bold, and cases have often occurred in which they have saved large portions of the village. ”

“ A law was passed in 1806, for the erection of a new court house and jail for the county of Otsego. The commissioners appointed for that purpose selected the spot a little remote from the center of the village, on the south side of the turnpike, and west of Chestnut street. Here a building wa.s constructed in 1806–7. It is 56 feet long and 50 feet wide, and has been used ever since for the public service. It is of bricks, and the court room is capacious and convenient. The jail is in the lower story, and is crowded and inconvenient. The jailer has also rooms in the building. ”

“ June 12th, 1812, a new act was passed, incorporating the place, by the name of The Village of Cooperstown, under which law, the people proceeded immediately to organize the local government. By the act of incorporation as since amended, the people elect annually five trustees, who choose their own president. The people also elect a clerk and treasurer, three assessors, a pathmaster, and constable. The board of trustees possesses powers to pass by-laws for the security of the village, in cases of fire ”

“ Many persons now living, can recollect a celebrated sham fight between this cavalry and a party of men disguised as Indians. The charges of the horse, on that occasion, are described as having been infinitely severe. ”