Lowell Thomas: The Pioneer of Pawling

In 1926, Lowell Thomas, a world-renowned journalist and broadcaster, visited Pawling Village, north of New York City. Thomas immediately fell in love with Pawling’s Quaker Hill and more specifically its magnificent views, greenery and flowing streams. Thomas purchased land and began developing Quaker Hill. His vision was to not have it built up with commercial real estate and factories, but rather to preserve the natural beauty of area. After developing much of Quaker Hill, he began selling the land, but only to those he was was fond of. Thomas convinced his friends — prominent lawyers, Wall Street bankers, and celebrities — to purchase land from him with the main goal of creating a community of successful individuals who wanted to get away from the bustle and hectic environment of New York City. Here on Pawling’s Quaker Hill, people could enjoy good friendships and partake in outdoor activities such as skiing, golfing, hiking, shooting, fishing, or bird-watching. Over time, Thomas persuaded over 100 families to live in Quaker Hill, including Edward R. Murrow.

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