About New York

Watertown, New York perches at the gateway to the famed Thousand Island Region. One of upstate New York's oldest communities, Watertown settlers determined to create an industrial center in the midst of the rugged scenic beauty here. Leashing the power of the mighty Black River, the town grew to be one of the country's primary paper manufacturers. The second oldest continuously running mill is found here, Knowlton Specialty Papers. The pioneering spirit and Yankee ingenuity of Watertown residents continues to this day.

Situated seventy miles north of Syracuse and thirty miles south of Canada, Watertown is the seat of Jefferson County. The county's largest city, it is the commercial and cultural hub for the region. The Jefferson Community College calls the city home, offering the county the finest in higher education. Census 2000 numbered Watertown's population at 26,075.

Lake Ontario sparkles at Jefferson County's western edge, supplying Watertown residents with year-round outdoor fun. Boating, diving and fishing opportunities abound, on both the lake and Black River, where whitewater flows. The immense Great Lake dynamically affects Watertown's climate. The warm waters lend humidity to the winter air masses crossing from the west, and huge snowfalls can descend on the city. The yearly snow total is 100 inches, but as much as 200 have been reported. Snowmobiles and sleds adorn the area then, and ice fishermen delight in the hard-frozen lake. Lake Ontario also keeps summer temperatures moderate, rarely reaching over 80 degrees.

Watertown, New York remains a lovely city, with many splendid 19th century homes and buildings. The Downtown District created a 21-stop walking tour showcasing the best of the grand and ornate architecture. Many unique boutiques and shops are found here, and plenty of dining opportunities. Watertown is home to two fine museums, the Jefferson County Historical Society, where historians may study the archives of this colorful region, and the Sci Tech Center, containing a plethora of interactive displays. In nearby historic Ogdensburg, the Frederick Remington Art Museum is housed, and the Sackets Harbor Battlefield Site is a short drive. The Greater Watertown Area offers a number of fine attractions.

Watertown residents can find all they need within their city. For those craving the lights of a brighter city, Ontario and Syracuse are each under an hour's drive on Interstate 81. Watertown, New York is surrounded by phenomenal scenery, boasts a low crime rate and cost of living, and a close proximity to major metropolises.