Waterford

Established by the Dutch in 1622, “Waterford” was in fact an actual “ford” (otherwise known as a crossing) between the Mohawk River and surrounding streams and islands in what is now beautiful, historic Saratoga County. The now famous Peebles Island, an important spot because it is where the Erie Canal and Champlain Canal begins, was once home to the Mahican Native Americans. After settlement from the Dutch, Waterford became an important port for travelers along the Erie and Champlain canals and the Mohawk and Hudson rivers.

Known as NY's “oldest” of villages, Waterford is steeped in rich American history. For instance, a special spot, Second Street, can give you a tour of the town's Revolutionary War history: beginning your walk at the sight of the colonial pub (or also known as “watering hole” during that time) known as “Eagle Tavern”. Here is where famous patrons such as Thomas Jefferson, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton stopped to quench their thirst and rest their weary bones after a hard day's work. Also along Second Street you will find “The Battery”, where the Mohawk and Hudson Rivers meet, as well as the start of the Champlain and Erie canals are located. Also, on First Street towards US Rt. 4, you will also find the Knox Trail, named after General Henry Knox, who braved this trail in the Winter of Revolutionary War years 1775- 1776, delivering artillery as well as other supplies to George Washington and his troops back in Boston, all the way from now famous, historical Fort Ticonderoga. Knox had to actually drill holes through the ice so that he could continue on towards Boston. Thankfully, he was successful, and the Artillery that he delivered there was what George Washington and Troops utilized to drive the British out of Boston, successfully continuing the American's winning side of the war.

Today as a visitor to Waterford you can enjoy learning about the Revolutionary War, visit magical, mysterious Peebles Island (the town's very own State Park) and enjoy fantastic, exciting community events such as “Tugboat Roundup” and “Canal Fest” (fun for the whole family)! There's also the Waterford Tugboat Festival, where you can enjoy food, arts & crafts, music, games, storytelling and boarding actual tugboats! This is the largest of tugboat festivals in Saratoga County, and you won't be disappointed---as well as a fantastic learning experience (don't forget to visit the Waterford Historical Museum, as well as the Cultural Center located at the gorgeous Hugh White Homestead (built back in the year 1830). The museum has a Victorian room on display, as well as the George and Annabel O'Connor Library for Local History.

Waterford also has lots of fantastic, fun places to eat and places to shop in town, as well as wonderful schools: there's two school districts, The Waterford-Halfmoon Central School District and the Shenendehowa School District (which also serves nearby Clifton Park). There's fun recreational activities to be had here as well. Come on down!