This Sunday, August 25th, marks a significant moment in preserving the rich history of the Catskills as the final Borscht Belt Historical Marker of the summer is unveiled in Woodridge at 22 Green Ave. This event not only concludes a series of summer marker installations but also represents a culmination of efforts to commemorate an era that shaped American Jewish life and left an indelible mark on American culture and entertainment.
The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project: A Mission to Remember
The Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project, initiated in 2022, was born out of a vision to recognize and celebrate the vibrant history of the Borscht Belt. Despite the region’s profound influence, there were no historical markers dedicated to this era in Sullivan or Ulster County. The project’s mission is clear: to interpret and designate places of significance across the Sullivan and Ulster County landscape, ensuring that the legacy of the Borscht Belt endures.
Celebrating Bethel’s Legacy and Woodstock’s Anniversary
This past Saturday, the Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project made a poignant stop in Bethel, where a new marker was dedicated at Kauneonga Lake. The dedication honored the history of Bethel’s golden years of tourism, recognizing the 50+ hotels and bungalow colonies that once thrived in the area. The event was particularly special as it coincided with the 55th anniversary of the iconic Woodstock Music & Arts Fair, which took place just up the road from the dedication site.
The turnout was remarkable, with many coming out to support the project and share stories of life during Bethel’s heyday. It was a celebration not only of the Borscht Belt’s legacy but also of the beginnings of Sullivan County tourism, which took root in Bethel.
The Rise and Fall of the Borscht Belt: A Cultural Haven
Nestled in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, just 90 miles from New York City, the Borscht Belt was once the premier vacation destination for the East Coast American Jewish community. Over 500 resorts, 50,000 bungalow colonies, and 1,000 rooming houses sprang up, providing a safe and welcoming environment for families to relax, celebrate, and thrive.
The Borscht Belt wasn’t just a vacation spot; it was the birthplace of stand-up comedy, the home of sports teams that recruited top players, and a stage for performers who would later become legends. Before Las Vegas became synonymous with entertainment, the theaters of the Borscht Belt were the epicenter of American show business.
However, by the 1980s and 1990s, the Borscht Belt experienced a sharp decline. The rise of suburban living, affordable air travel, and changing generational tastes led to the closure of many resorts and the eventual disappearance of many of the region’s iconic structures. Yet, the influence of the Borscht Belt on American society, culture, and the arts remains undeniable.
Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future
This summer, the Borscht Belt Historical Marker Project has brought renewed attention to this storied region, with markers already unveiled in South Fallsburg, Kiamesha, Hurleyville, Bethel, and now Woodridge. Each event has been a celebration of the Borscht Belt’s enduring legacy and a reminder of its vital role in shaping not only the Catskills but also American history.
The final marker in Woodridge serves as a tribute to the past and an inspiration for future generations to explore, learn, and appreciate the history that surrounds them. As these markers stand tall across the Catskills, they invite us all to remember, reflect, and honor a time when the Borscht Belt was the heart of a vibrant community.
