Caledonia Fish Hatchery

Caledonia Fish Hatchery is a trout breeding facility in Upstate New York consisting of multiple buildings from different periods and a series of ponds for fish cultivation. The grounds include structures for rearing, feeding, and monitoring fish populations in a rural setting.

This facility began in 1864 and was the first of its kind in the Western Hemisphere. The State of New York took ownership in 1870 and continues to operate it for public fish production.

The name reflects Scottish heritage of early settlers in the area. The site shows how communities depended on fish farming for recreation and food, a practice that remains central to the region today.

The grounds are open during the day for visitors to walk around and observe the facilities. Wear comfortable shoes since pathways cross uneven terrain and go around ponds.

Several buildings on the site date to different decades, including a Queen Anne style manager's house from 1889 and an ice house from 1890 that reveal earlier methods of fish preservation. These structures show how operations and techniques shifted over time as technology improved.

Location: New York

GPS coordinates: 42.98639,-77.86167

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:40