The Historical Society of Shawangunk & Gardiner will meet on Wednesday, October 2 and host a presentation on the basin and the growth of business in Shawangunk.

Before the Railroad came through the Basin, there were only farmlands, a gristmill and sawmill, and a bridge that crossed the Wallkill on the North Plank Road.

Soon hotels, stores, and businesses came to the area becoming the business center of Shawangunk.

The arrival of John G. Borden in 1881 further expanded the hamlet when he purchased most of the land around the Basin and designed the residential streets for his employees. After his death his daughter continued the growth adding electric, water, and donation of land for parks and a library.

The stores and businesses of Wallkill Avenue( sometimes called Main Street) will be detailed with pictures and the types of business and who owned and operated them and what they sold.

The presentation will take place at 7 p.m. at the Historical Society, 5 Main St., Wallkill. Admission is free.

Call 895-3321for more information.