Blockhouse Park in the Village of Stillwater, NY (top); Indians paddle their canoe down the Hudson River in Stillwater, NY. (middle), historic photo of Hudson River canoeist (bottom). Stillwater, New York: A brief history
Strategically located at the joining of the Hudson and Hoosac Rivers, Stillwater was the site of the Battles of Saratoga in 1777, which took place in the northern part of the town and led to the defeat of the British during the Revolutionary War. Stillwater became an official town on March 7, 1788, and the village was later incorporated in 1816. During the 19th century, the opening of the canals along the Hudson River spurred industry in the community. The town was also an educational center, with an academy that flourished for many years. By the 20th century, Stillwater residents became more mobile, finding work outside of town, and the mills and factories began to close. Today Stillwater is known as a bedroom community with a bright future.
Click here to look through galleries of historic Stillwater photos and landmarks
Click here to view a list of past Stillwater Presidents and Mayors (pdf)
About our Village Historian Linda Sanders
As a life long resident, Linda Sanders is a graduate of Stillwater Central School class of 1959 and Cobleskill Agricultural and Technical Institute now known as Cobleskill College class of 1962. She was employed at the Leonard Hospital from 1963 until her retirement in 2002 where she worked as a Medical Technologist in the laboratory. Linda became the first Deputy Town Historian in 1987 and was appointed as Town Historian at the time of the retirement of Mrs. Elizabeth Abel in 1995.
The historian's office was moved from the library to the Stillwater Area Community Center in 1997. Linda Sanders returned to being the Deputy Historian in 2006 as she is considered part time. Linda Palmieri is the full time Town Historian/Curator.
Blockhouse Park
Much of Stillwater's rich history can be learned by visiting Blockhouse Park on Hudson Avenue in the Village of Stillwater. The Blockhouse opens its doors Memorial Day weekend and closes Columbus Day Weekend. Hours of operation are from noon to 4:00 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday or by appointment for special group tours.
If anyone would like further information they should call:
Linda Palmieri, Town Historian
(518) 664-2515, ext. 39
Linda Sanders, Village Historian
(518) 664-2515, ext. 11
Annual Blockhouse events 2013
- Opening Day Encampment and Blessing of the Flags —Saturday, May 25, Noon
- 4th of July Encampment —July 6-7, beginning at 10 a.m.on Saturday and ending at 3 p.m. on Sunday
- 911 Commemoration — Wednesday, September 11 at 6:30 p.m.
- Heritage Weekend Encampment — September 14-15, beginning at 10 a.m.on Saturday and ending at 3 p.m. on Sunday
- Salute to ALL Veterans from the French and Indian War to present day — November 9, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
