Tupper Lake lies at the center of the magnificent Adirondack forests. The first settlers were hunters, anglers, and trappers. In 1850, the Pomeroy Lumber Company began operations, and with the first logging ventures came the rush of settlers. As the logging industry grew, the railroad arrived. At the junction point for Hurd's and Webb's railroad, downtown Tupper Lake became the Adirondacks' leading rail center. Soon other sawmills were erected, and dams were built along the Raquette River. Today, Tupper Lake still thrives, and Sunmount Developmental Center is the lifeblood of the community and main source of livelihood for Tupper Lake residents.