The Pine Lake Adirondack Paradise building is unique in the Town of Caroga and, possibly, the State of New York.

The dance hall was begun in the spring of 1924 by Joseph Groshans, a prominent local businessman, logger and sawmill operator. It was Mr. Groshans sincere desire to bring entertainment, dancing and pleasure to the inhabitants of Fulton and Hamilton Counties. Little did he realize that his efforts would survive for 81 years until the present day (July 2006).

The building began operating as a dance hall in 1925 on Declaration day. The completion of this building in Groshans' Park served to put Pine Lake in the forefront of recreational areas. The building was constructed by local craftsmen, with Mr. Groshans personally supervising and assisting in all phases of the construction. The wood used in the construction was cut from the ample forests which the surround the area.

The large structure was divided by a solid wall into two separate parts. The East wing served as a lounge with wooden booths which surrounded a center island service area. The West wing, which comprised approximately 2/3 of the building, was the dance hall, complete with a caged enclosure, whereby, patrons could purchase tickets for the next square dance set. It is interesting to note that the entire ballroom floor is constructed of solid maple and, considered by many, to still be one of the best dance surfaces anywhere. Ventilation was provided by large shutters on the outside walls which were lifted and propped by metal pipes. Restrooms were outside; one of these buildings still remains on the West side.

In 1961, following the death of Mr. Groshans, the previous, year, the total property, in excess of 400 acres, was purchased by Mr. Robert Lord who made extensive modifications to the building. He proceeded to install a large cafeteria and relocated the bar. In addition, the wall separating the two distinct areas was removed and inside sanitary facilities were added. Mr. Lord also refurbished and reactivated the large amusement midway.

In 1975 the property was sold to Mr. William Brandau who continued the operation under the same corporate banner as his predecessor, Pine Lake Recreation, Inc.

In 1984 the building, once again, changed hands to Ms. Donna Rush who succeeded in modernizing the structure as it currently exists today. During Ms. Rush's tenure the entire building was refurbished. The long bar on the East wall was constructed, the kitchen was newly added, new windows installed, a stage was constructed to Nashville specifications and many other refinements were completed to bring the building into the twentieth century. Top entertainment stars such as Lynn Anderson, Tammy Wynette, Janie Fricki, Shelly West, and Boxcar Willie are among the many prominent performers that have shared the stage. In fact, since the early days of Groshans Park many legendary figures in country music have "played" Pine Lake. It was Ms. Rush who gave the name of Adirondack Paradise to the facility.

In 1990 the property was acquired by the Houck and Ivancic families who also owned the adjoining campgrounds to the East. The current operators see their role as caretakers of a legacy which has played a prominent role in American Adirondack history. They continue the operation that we see today in the same time honored tradition. Pine Lake Park has become synonymous with quality family entertainment.

The Adirondack Paradise is, without a doubt, one of the oldest and largest "dance halls" that has remained in continual operation since its inception in 1925. May the Good times continue.

by William W. Houck