Winslow Homer's Minerva
by Peter G. Mc Shane

Frederick Thomas Loveland
“The best and most famous guide in the area”
1833-1896

Aiden Lair, in the Town of Minerva, Adirondack Mountains, New York, was home to the Loveland family.  Residing on the old North Creek Newcomb to Long Lake Road (now Rte 28N) just over Loveland Hill, Frederick Loveland eked out a livelihood with his wife and children.  It was a formidable task surviving in this beautiful yet harsh environment.

Much is written in local history documenting this pioneering family. However, it was Winslow Homer who recognized and recorded in oils a representation of the indomitable spirit of this Adirondack woodsman.

The four seasons presented various opportunities for work.  Frederick Loveland was employed as Town of Minerva Game Constable. He also cleared the roads in winter, lumber jacked, operated the Indian River Hotel and guided at the North Woods Club.

Juliette Baker’s Baker Tract diary makes numerous references of Loveland and his family at the Tract.  Historian and writer Leila Fosburg Wilson, in her North Woods Club History states “working out of Aiden Lair Hotel, Loveland guided the original founders to the Baker Tract”.(predecessor to the North Woods Club).

 Employed by Dean Sage, Loveland was the first guide and supervisor for the newly formed Hewitt Lake Club. On December 4, 1896, Loveland died from injuries sustained by a falling tree at the Hewitt camp.

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©2008 Peter G. Mc Shane