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Putnam County is an area of great historical significance. It is named after a Revolutionary War general named Israel Putnam. He is the person responsible for the famous Revolutionary War saying "Don´t fire until you see the whites of their eyes.
At one time, Putnam County was part of Dutchess County. In 1812, the New York State legislature divided Dutchess County in two parts and established Putnam County as the 46th County in the State. The towns of Carmel, Mahopac, Kent, South East, Putnam Valley, Philipstown, and Patterson became what is now known as Putnam County. The town of Carmel was designated as the County seat.
During colonial times, when our county was fighting for its independence, much of the iron ore needed to manufacture cannons and muskets used to fight the British was mined in the hills of Putnam County. The chains that crossed the Hudson River at West Point were made from iron ore mined in the area.
Before Albany Post Road and the rail roads came into existence, the Hudson River was the primary method of shipping. At the time, route 301 was known as Philipstown Road. Farmers used this road to bring their crops to the river port at Nelson´s Landing, where they were shipped to New York City. Garrison´s landing, south of Nelsonville, is another famous shipping point.
In later years, rail lines were extended into the popular areas of the County. It soon became the playground for the rich and famous. Areas surrounding lakes Mahopac, Peekskill, and Oscawana became popular resort communities. Wealthy aristocrats, attracted by picturesque lakes and beautiful mountain scenery also built luxurious estates throughout the region.
Today, Putnam County is no longer the privileged domain of the wealthy. It has become the bedroom community for local and commuting working class people from White Plains, Yonkers, and New York City.
Many of the luxurious estates still remain. Rail lines still pass through and serve the County.
However, except for state parks, the growth in residential home communities has made the County lakes less accessible to non residents. City residents often choose other areas to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
In the Quick Homes Search area above, click on the price range you are interested in. You will then see all the current homes or land for sale in all of Putnam County. Call me and let me help you visit any home you are interested in previewing.
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