DUCK DERBY © COURTESY OF PUTNAM COUNTY TOURISM
An hour north of Manhattan, nestled between the Hudson River and the Connecticut State line, is the wonderful gem in the Hudson Valley, Putnam County. Putnam is a small but mighty treasure trove of crystal lakes, beautiful hiking trails, historic sites, art and cultural experiences, and quaint restaurants and shops—with five Metro-North stops, day trips are hassle-free, and getaways are easy.
EXPLORE THE HISTORY, PLACES & PERSONALITIES THAT BUILT A NATION IN PUTNAM COUNTY, NEW YORK
Our nation’s Founding Fathers believed in the ideal that all men were created equal with certain unalienable rights: the rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. From April 1775 to September 1783, the colonial rebels fought against tyranny to gain our nation’s independence. This area of New York, along the east side of the Hudson River, saw bloodshed, espionage, resilience, bravery, and determination—playing a vital role in the creation of the United States.
Gain a new perspective with tales of revolutionary women like Sybil Ludington, whose 40-mile horseback ride rallied militia after the burning of nearby Danbury, Connecticut.
Remember the often-forgotten slavery economy in the north through the eyes of people such as Prince Cornwall, an enslaved man who served under General George Washington.
Hear the treasonous tale of Major General Benedict Arnold and visit Constitution Island, an integral location for military strategy of the Great Chain, and the site where General George Washington made his final address to the troops.
Putnam’s history comes alive through a new audio tour, Revolutionary Road to Putnam County, narrated by Putnam County resident and philanthropist George Carroll Whipple III. Launching in April 2026, the tour will guide visitors to key historic sites, including Boscobel House & Gardens—once home to a wealthy Loyalist—and the Daniel Nimham memorial at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park. Details will be available at RevolutionaryPutnam.org.
FAMILY FUN DAYS TO ENJOY THIS SUMMER
Travel back in time to 250 years ago to see what life was like in the fight for America’s Freedom on Saturday, June 6th, at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park for Putnam County’s Heroes battle The Redcoats. See live military demonstrations, listen to stirring fife & drum, and wander through a bustling merchant market for Revolutionary War-themed goods.
The Putnam County Fair & 4H Showcase is the country fair families love. An easy car drive away, the fair draws thousands of visitors who enjoy food trucks, vendors, games, demonstrations, exhibits, magic shows, inflatables, farm animals, pony rides, and entertainment. Listen to live music, check out the classic car show, and take part in the Duck Derby Fundraiser, which helps support the programs of Cornell Cooperative Extension of Putnam County. Free parking and admission on July 25th & July 26th at Putnam County Veterans Memorial Park.
EXPERIENCE NATURAL BEAUTY & OUTDOOR ADVENTURES WHEN YOU VISIT PUTNAM COUNTY
Learn more about Putnam County and plan your visit by calling the Putnam County Tourism Department at 845-808-1015 or by visiting our website visitputnam.org. Whether you are a local resident or visiting for a day or more, experience Putnam County, where the country begins. Just a short car or train ride to Putnam County, where there’s always another reason to say, “New York State. Everything You Love.”
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Come and see us, get to know us! Putnam County, from its eastern borders teeming with lakes and farmland, charming villages and more!