The Catskill Chronicle

SULLIVAN COUNTY, NY (November 21, 2011) – Sullivan County was formed from Ulster County in 1809, but its history as a healing environment considerably predates that.

From the time of the Lenape, who revered the majestic natural beauty of  the rivers, lakes and streams of the region, to the 19th century, when New York City physicians directed their patients to "go to the … mountains," to the early years of the 20th century when strongman Charles Atlas declared there was "no finer place in all of America," Sullivan County has been known for its pure air and pure water.

County Historian John Conway has condensed the history of the region as a healing environment into a short booklet, entitled “Blessed By The Gods,” which is being published by Catskill-Delaware Publications (publishers of The Sullivan County Democrat).

“Blessed By The Gods” details the role that health and healing have played in the development of Sullivan County over the past two-hundred plus years.

"I have written often about the fact that the area’s environment has long been regarded as one with special healing qualities, and I decided that this was the right time to gather and adapt those writings into booklet form" Conway says. "’Blessed By The Gods’ will cover a lot of ground, from the herbal medicine of the Lenape to the tuberculosis sanitariums, to the attempt to lure hay fever sufferers here in the mid-20th century. It is a fascinating history, and it’s time it was told in a condensed, comprehensive manner."

The limited-edition booklet, which includes 12 photos and illustrations – some of them very rare –can be purchased from the author by mail. Simply send a check or money order for $8, including postage, to John Conway, P.O. Box 185, Barryville, NY 12719. Be sure to include your mailing address, and if you would like the book inscribed, any special instructions for doing so. Please allow a minimum of three weeks for delivery.

To find out more visit Sullivan Retrospect or “like” Sullivan Retrospect on Facebook at:   http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1639284655#!/pages/Sullivan-Retrospect/152604468153637.