Hamilton County remained a wilderness long after New York State had divided into counties. It was formed from Montgomery County on February 12, 1816 as a provisional county. Around 1840 it became an independent organization with the county seat at Sageville, the present Lake Pleasant.

The Town of Lake Pleasant however had its beginnings back in 1794 when George Courtney, who was married to the widow of Stephen Crossfield, (Totten and Crossfield Purchase) convinced his brother Francis to move here. George deeded to Francis 500 acres known as the Courtney Tract on the south side of Lake Pleasant.

The town was officially established at the first town meeting on April 7, 1812, at the House of Joshua Rich.

Since the birth of the town it has become the center of activity not only as the county seat but as a great place to train for heavy weight champions such as Gene Tunney, Max Baer and Max Schmeling as well as home to a semi-pro hockey team. Lake Pleasant became a great place to visit and relax at the Osborne Inn, Morley Hotel, Sturges House or Adirondack Hotel. Loggers and even a hermit (French Louie) found this a great place to live and work. (historical pictures)

The area is filled with stories of historical interest and still the area continues to make history. From Col. Peck’s grave, Letson’s Corner, Holmes Hill to the western route of the Olympic Torch for the 1980 Winter Olympic Games, the Town of Lake Pleasant has it all. (Source, The History of Hamilton County, Aber and King, 1965)