Shequaga Falls is located just a short drive from Watkins Glen, in the picturesque town of Montour Falls. This is a neat little excursion for families visiting Watkins Glens. The Historic District and the Brick Tavern are both on the National Register of Historic Places. There is definitely a lot of history in this small village.
History of Montour Falls
The original village of Queanettquaga was destroyed in the Sullivan Expedition in 1779. The Sullivan Expedition was a military campaign led by Major General John Sullivan and Brigadier General James Clinton against the Loyalists or Tories and the Iroquois Nation, who had sided with the British during the American Revolution. The village was then named Havana in 1788 and, in 1890, became Montour Falls, named after Queen Catherine Montour of the Senecas.
Shequaga Falls
She-qua-gam, which means “Tumbling Waters,” is located on the west side of the village. The waterfall is 150 ft and was the inspiration for a sketch by Louise Philippe I, The Last King of France, now sitting in the Louvre. Louise Philippe I, fled France just as Napoleon came to power. Unfortunately, his father, Louise Philippe, Duke of Orleans, was not as lucky and was sent to the guillotine. Louise Philippe, I rented a modest coach and fled the country under an assumed name. He lived out the rest of his day in England in exile.
Shequaga Falls Park
Shequaga Falls are incredible, especially when they are really flowing. The best part of these falls is that they require no effort to get to—no hiking required. The falls are surrounded by a lovely park with picnic tables and benches to sit and enjoy the scenery.
The parking, however, can be tricky as there are very few parking spaces by the falls, and if the weather is good, you will be fighting for a good spot. You might have to park further away and walk.
Tip: If you park on W. Main St, you can get the “money shot” with the entire falls in the picture. Visit in the early spring, and you can capture a picture with flowering trees.
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Havana Glen
This is a lovely park that is a great alternative to Watkins Glen, especially when the later is really crowded. This is a great place to cool off on a hot day.