The period from 1884 to 1926 was the heyday of the
trolley lines, the height of steam travel, and the peak of interest in the "back to nature" movement. It was a time for spiritual renewal, when society was encouraged to enjoy family activities in the fresh air. Resorts served as an escape from summer's oppressive heat and offered a world of fun, fantasy, and fishing--a world far removed from the toils of the shop, the chores of the farm, or the everyday drudgery demanded by a labor intensive, pre-electric society. Rochester's Lakeside Resorts and Amusement Parks documents in over 200 photographs the development, dates, locations, and attractions that were a unique part of the rich history of each resort. Offering a window into yesterday, this book reveals many unusual facts about the area and features the fascinating characters who owned and operated the impressive hotels, boats, trolley lines, and amusement concessions.