Croton-on-Hudson, Cortlandt, Briarcliff Manor Croton-on-Hudson, bordering the Hudson River, was named for an Indian chief within the Kitchawank tribe. These Indians inhabited the area from the 14th century on and eventually began selling the land to Stephanus von Cortlandt. He ultimately bought over 86,000 acres of the surrounding land, including the area of Peekskill. The first Croton Aqueduct and Dam was constructed in 1837 but did not seem to provide enough water to New York City. Eventually in 1892, construction on a new dam began and Croton-on-Hudson is often referred to as the "Dam Town". By 1849 tracks were being laid for a new railroad which marked the beginning of growth in the area’s population. During the early 1900’s, Colonel Clifford B. Harmon a developer and arts patron, purchased farmland and thus began the development of a colony of New York performing artists, many noteworthy. Panoramic river views and unusual stone houses dot the landscape. Metro-North provides a desirable commute into New York City in under an hour. Bus service is available throughout the county and the Cross Westchester Expressway, Saw Mill River Parkway and Taconic Parkway are easily accessible.

The creative flavor has remained in the community throughout the years. Art exhibitions are held at the local banks and churches and each fall, the Croton Council on the Arts co-sponsors the Croton Artfest - a celebration of the talents of local artists, complete with musical entertainment. Shopping in the Croton area used to be restricted to the downtown section, encompassing the riverfront and railroad station. Now several options exist, including new shopping malls within the Village. The Upper Village contains an assortment of unique shops amidst historic buildings. The Croton Union Free School District serves the area and the high school is involved in the Coalition of Essential Schools, a comprehensive program affiliated with Brown University.

Having the Hudson River for a backdrop provides Croton with a vast selection of recreational activities. Senasqua Park offers a sailing school operational from April through October. Along with several private marinas, the village marina includes 50 moorings. The Teatown Lake Wildlife Preserve providing educational in addition to recreational activities, encompasses 305 acres of the area. Croton Point Park offers fishing, boating and picnicking on its 500-acre property. A visit to historical Van Cortlandt Manor takes one back in time to colonial days.

Surrounding the city of Peekskill is the Town of Cortlandt, consisting of two villages, several hamlets and the beauty of 15 miles of the Hudson River shoreline. Like Croton, Cortlandt belonged to the Kitchawank Indians who eventually shared it with Dutch and English settlers during the late 1600’s.

Cortlandt is rich with Native American history as well as Colonial and Revolutionary history. Today, Cortlandt is a pleasant mixture of modern conveniences and rural charm. The hamlets and villages of Cortlandt are: Buchanan, Crugers, Montrose and Verplanck.

In Buchanan, the Village Circle near Monroe Park and Village Hall is the center of business activity. Buchanan is one of the area’s smallest villages but is proud to have its very own police and fire departments. Crugers boasts Oscawana Park and Furnace Brooks as the major attractions in this small, residential community. Montrose is generally known for residential areas and is home to George’s Island Park. Nestled against the shoreline of the Hudson is Verplanck, chock full of small-town charm. In addition to several marinas, Verplanck shares part of Lake Meahagh Park with its neighboring Montrose and Buchanan. Here one can enjoy playground facilities and a lovely setting for ice-skating in the winter months.

Ossining is both a town and village located in central Westchester County, New York. It is one of Westchester’s largest communities, a diverse mix of busy thoroughfares, picturesque neighborhoods and stunning views of the Hudson River valley.

Located 30 miles north of Manhattan on Metro-North railroad’s Hudson Line, Ossining is both accessible and affordable, making a popular choice for home-buyers. Classic architectural styles attract numerous house hunters looking to escape the City’s pace. The village is located on the eastern shore of the Hudson River with spectacular views, even from the center of the business district.

The Village Briarcliff Manor takes pride in its small-town feeling which consistently draws home buyers to the area. It offers a wide variety of single-family home styles offered in a mix of surroundings. Some residents enjoy a tight-knit neighborhood feeling while others embrace the secluded peace and quiet they’ve longed for. Briarcliff Manor offers great local beauty with its wooded, hilly landscape, quaint shops, quality recreational facilities including golf and tennis.

One thing every Briarcliff homeowner has in common is accessibility. Major highways are just minutes away and the Scarborough train station offers a fast and easy New York City commute.

Peekskill is located approximately 50 miles north of New York City on the east bank of the Hudson River. It is a small city with a population of about 20,000. Its charm is in its intimacy: numerous volunteer organizations help bring residents together in community spirit.

Peekskill has a proud history dating back to the Revolutionary War. Newcomers are attracted to the area since an abundance of affordable housing and beautiful, graceful older Colonial and Victorian homes are available. Peekskill has excellent health care facilities, fine schools and recreational facilities, making it an ideal place to raise a family.

Peekskill’s creation of the Downtown Artists’ District has led to the emergence of the City as an art center. Over 50 artists have moved into the downtown lofts, and the City is well on its way to becoming a true artist center.

The Peekskill Farmer’s Market is one of the largest of its kind in Westchester County and is held on Saturdays from mid-June to the end of October, rain or shine. It’s not only fun, but a social gathering: residents and visitors return every Saturday to meet their friends. A high point to the summer season are the Riverfront Concerts held on Wednesday nights in July and August by the river on Riverfront Green. People come from all over to have a good time and enjoy the music. The concerts have music for everyone: oldies, rock and folk music and are sponsored by community organizations.

Yorktown is the sixth largest municipality in Westchester County. It cover 40 square miles in northcentral Westchester. There are five hamlet area in Yorktown: Yorktown Heights, Shrub Oak, Mohegan Lake, Jefferson Valley and Crompond. The Town of Yorktown offers comfortable, affordable suburban housing located in close proximity to large retail areas, business centers and major transportation routes.

Yorktown boasts a beautiful 800 acre state park which offers fishing, swimming, hiking, bicycling and picnicking. In addition, there are many other parks as well as public golf courses. The Yorktown Recreation Department offers year-round activities and classes. There is a professional theater with stage productions to delight young and old.

All in all, residents and visitors praise this beautiful town with its easy lifestyle.