The People Behind the Places We Protect

John D. Robinson Sr., a Cooperstown native son, traces his longstanding family roots in Otsego County back to 1792 when his ancestors settled in Lena in the Town of New Lisbon.  Enjoying outdoor activities, he has spent innumerable hours exploring the Otsego region, swimming, hiking, fishing, trapping, and hunting.

If one were to ask John what he did for a living, his reply would be that he was a union laborer. His hand-crafted log cabin residence on the shore of the Susquehanna River, his workmanship in stone masonry at Historic Hyde Hall on Otsego Lake, and his keen interest in local history reflect his deep abiding passion for local culture and conservation.

John, a regular participant at walks offered by Otsego Land Trust, became aware of our mission to protect natural areas, working farms and forest, and historic sites while exploring some of the special lands we have secured. Because of a timely lead from John regarding an upcoming tax sale, Otsego Land Trust was able to make its first land purchase of a 3-acre parcel of wetlands along the Susquehanna River. As a result of John’s contribution, Otsego Land Trust presented him our inaugural “Trailblazer Award” for enabling us to reach this important milestone.