New Baltimore

Fresh Air and Open Space

New Baltimore was carved from the Town of Coxsackie on March 15, 1811 by an act of the New York State Legislature. Originally part of the homeland of the Mahican Indians, the town’s boundaries were within the patents granted by the Dutch and English governments to early settlers such as Barent P. Coeymans and Mathias Houghtaling.

Even before formal creation of the town, the area had thriving mills and farms as early as 1713. These communities stretched from the hamlet on the Hudson to what became the settlements of Medway, Grapeville, Stanton Hill, Staco, and their surroundings.  Farming continued to grow in subsequent years and continues on a smaller scale today. By 1875, there were 248 farms with 33, 882 acres under cultivation. By the period between World Wars I and II, the town was second in the county behind Cairo in acreage devoted to fruit growing and had the largest individual orchards.

New Baltimore has been closely associated economically with the Hudson. The natural little bay on the River’s west shore made a ready spot for handling cargo and passengers, with farmers and millers forming long lines to unload their goods. Shipbuilding and repair reached its peak in the mid-nineteenth century when the Baldwin family took charge and built over 150 barges, tugboats, ferries, and other craft. Because of business demands, the hamlet and other parts of town had hotels and stores of various types, which lasted well into this century.

Community

The New Baltimore Conservancy is dedicated to conserving the beauty in and around New Baltimore.  They offer nature walks, paddle events on the Hudson River and a variety of social events that the family can enjoy.

The AgFest in New Baltimore celebrates agriculture and the community’s heritage, and has been held for more than ¼ century.   Come see antique tractors, log racing, wood carving and much more.  There’s fun for the whole family.

Places to see

Enjoy the beauty of nature at the scenic Hudson Long View Park, dragonflies, butterflies and birds are attracted to the wildflowers that bloom here.  Enjoy the vistas of the Berkshire Mountains in the distance and the majestic views up and down the Hudson River.

If you enjoy hiking or cross-country skiing, the Hannacroix Creek Preserve is a great place to visit.  The preserve has four trails which lead to a beautiful waterfall and allow you to enjoy the beauty of nature that surrounds you.