In a strategic move, the town of Pulaski has secured 170 acres of mostly wooded land, nestled between Memorial Drive and Pepper’s Ferry Road. This vast tract, which has remained vacant for decades, presents an exciting opportunity for future development.
A Blank Canvas Awaits: The Story of Pulaski’s Land Acquisition
The Mountain View Plantation Legacy
Before its incorporation as a town, the land that would become Pulaski was known as the Mountain View Plantation. Owned by Robert Martin Jr., this expansive estate extended from the present-day McGill Village and Brown Addition in the east to the Jefferson National Forest in the west. The northern boundary reached beyond the current corporate limits, while the southern limits stretched to Draper’s Mountain.
Industrial Transformation: Altoona Coal Company and Bertha Mineral Company
The late 19th century witnessed significant changes. The discovery of Altoona coal deposits and the formation of the Altoona Coal Company fueled industrial growth. The company constructed a narrow gauge railroad connecting the main N&W tracks to the coal deposits. Simultaneously, the Bertha Mineral Company emerged, capitalizing on abundant coal and water resources. The company’s furnace complex near the former site of Magnox/Nanochemonics marked the western boundary of Pulaski’s downtown heavy industrial district.
Pulaski City Emerges
Incorporated as Pulaski City in 1886, the town experienced a boom that lasted until 1910. New industries, engineering efforts along Peak Creek, and rail service terminus all contributed to the transformation. The Pulaski Land and Improvement Co. played a pivotal role, creating large residential and commercial tracts in the present downtown area.
A Vision for the Future
Now, with the acquisition of this wooded expanse, Pulaski stands at a crossroads. The challenge lies in envisioning how to develop this blank canvas. Ideas abound: a nature preserve, recreational trails, sustainable housing, or perhaps a blend of these. The community’s input will shape the future of these 170 acres.
