Sackett Bridge, at the head of Beebe Lake, is named in honor of Colonel Henry Woodward Sackett, a generous donor from the Class of 1875 who established a fund for beautifying Cascadilla Gorge. He was born in Enfield, New York on August 31, 1853. Enrolled at Cornell in 1869 at the age of 16, and graduated in 1875 with highest rank in mathematics. He became a specialist in libel law. His cases would be used as precedent to protect journalists from contempt for not revealing confidential sources.
He was from a military family. His great-grandfather was Major Buell Sackett of the American Continental Army, who was one of the witnesses of the execution of Major Andre. His grandfather was a captain in the War of 1812. Sackett enlisted in Troop A New York Volunteer Cavalry on October 22, 1889 and was called to duty for Buffalo Switchmen Strike in August of 1892. He was a non-commissioned officer in New York’s cavalry unit when Governor Black appointed him Aid Decamp Jan 1, 1897 with the rank of colonel. During the Spanish-American war he did recruiting service and also served as assistant paymaster general for the New York National Guard units in southern camps.
Colonel Sackett was always interested in the preservation of historic places, fine scenery and historic traditions. He was also actively interested in military affairs and in Cornell University of which he was a trustee. In 1929 the University also named the four falls In Cascadilla Gorge ‘Sackett Cascade’ as a tribute to him. [2][3][50]
The plaque at the east end of Sackett Bridge.
Fall at the Sackett Bridge
