Vintage Images of New Hartford

In 1788, Jedediah Sanger, having gone bankrupt from a fire on his New Hampshire farm, purchased 1,000 acres of land in Whitestown. This land, part of the Coxe Patent, came to be known as New Hartford. The town of New Hartford was created in April 1827 when the town of Whitestown was divided. The village of New Hartford was formed in 1870, and within the town, Chadwicks, Middle Settlement, Washington Mills, and Willowvale also existed.

During the early 19th century, industry flourished in New Hartford. The Sauquoit Creek supplied power to various businesses, including tanneries, knitting mills, sawmills, and canning factories. Local farms provided adequate supplies of vegetables and meat. The installation of Seneca Turnpike further boosted New Hartford's economy, as it became the main thoroughfare west from Utica. Prosperity followed, especially after Commercial Drive was developed in the 20th century.

Today, New Hartford is Oneida County's retail center. The town's growth and development can be attributed to the strategic use of the land and natural resources, as well as the installation of important transportation infrastructure. The diversification of industries and the support from local agriculture have all contributed to the town's economic success over the years. New Hartford's transformation from a small, rural community to a thriving retail hub is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its residents and the town's ongoing commitment to progress and growth.

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