This detailed history of Lake George, New York, sometimes referred to as "The Door," is presented through a series of the author's previously published articles which focus on the first major battle in North America - a battle that shaped the civilization of this land. This battle occurred within a few hundred yards of the site of the future Fort William Henry. The author discusses the principles on both sides of the battle and what happened during the September 1755 battle. Facsimile reprints of maps, photographs, and paintings; and biographies of notable figures such as King Hendrick, Ephraim Williams, Major General Seth Pomeroy, Timothy Ruggles, and Jared Sparks add to the value of this work.