Catskill Podcast Explores Underwater Town of Arena, New York

Drought Effects Unearth Hudson Valley, Catskill History

It's no secret, it has been a dry few months across New York State. According to AccuWeather, New York is going through a "historic stretch of bone-dry weather."

The explain that the last time New York City experienced measurable rainfall was on September 30th, 2024.

We've felt the effects of the drought, which is partly why the Jennings Wildfire in New York and New Jersey continues to burn, burning through over 5,000 acres since November 10th, 2024.

With that being said, the drought has unearthed parts of New York's history that we never thought we would see again.

Have You Heard of Arena, New York in The Catskill Mountains?

Inside The Line: The Catskill Mountains Podcast is a podcast dedicated to sharing the history of the Catskill Mountains.

On Facebook, they shared that the visited the Pepacton Reservoir in Delaware County. Since the reservoir is nearly all dried up, they were able to explore the remains of Arena, New York.

According to The Catskill Mountain Podcast, Arena was home to 250-300 residents back in the 1950s. However the residents were "forced out of their homes due to the city of New York wanting to build another reservoir for the supply of their water."

There were 3 other towns that were also forced out to make room including: Shavertown, Pepacton and Union Grove.

The photos are quite haunting, as you can see parts of the foundation of the homes that used to stand in Arena, New York:

New York Ghost Towns

If you're like me and fascinated by underwater towns, abandoned building and ghost towns, take a look below.

Did you know there are 6 Hudson Valley ghost towns that are still somewhat accessible? Ever heard of Parksville in Sullivan County?

According to reports, Parksville was the place to be back in the day. From the 1800s until 1957 the New York, Ontario and Western Railroad ran through the now ghost town.

It seems like there are still some shops open in Parksville, but it's not what it used to be. Take a look at a few other local Hudson Valley ghost towns below: