In 1805, New York State sold the land around the falls, and mills and other businesses that used the Niagara River for power were established. These industries provided the local community with needed services, helping the area to prosper. When the Erie Canal opened in 1825, it provided a direct route across the state and greater access to goods and services. As a result, the community around the falls grew, and the area adjacent to the falls became plagued by industrial and commercial blight. The development around the falls angered many people. Between 1869 and 1885, the Free Niagara Movement worked to rid the falls and adjacent areas of excessive industry and commercialism and create a park that would allow visitors to view the falls in their natural splendor. During his 1869 visit to Niagara Falls, Frederick Law Olmsted became aware of the industrial threat to Niagara's natural beauty. He developed a plan to preserve this scenic wonder for the public that culminated in the establishment of the State Reservation at Niagara. On July 15, 1885, the State Reservation at Niagara was dedicated. Over 75,000 people gathered to celebrate with marching bands, military units, orations, and fireworks. Thomas V. Welch, who led a citizen writing campaign to save the falls, became the park's first superintendent. Niagara Reservation, the oldest state park in the United States, is now known as Niagara Falls State Park. Although the park has evolved over time to meet visitor needs, the public's desire to maintain the park's natural beauty has not changed.