Welcome to one of the most convenient airports in the New York Metro area. Easy to get to. Easy to leave. Easy to travel. Easy to park. Passengers from New York and Connecticut frequent the White Plains Westchester County Airport for its non-stop commercial services to 10 major cities. White Plains Westchester County Airport accommodates over 1 million passengers annually.
For more information, press the "Blue Button" for The Westchester County Airport website. This website is easy to navigate and provides useful information. The airplane represents a link to the airlines page including route maps and parking, the phone links to important airport service related numbers, the bus represents ground transportation information, the car for car rentals, the bed for accommodations, the arrows for directions to the airport.
November 16, 1776. Heavy rains spoiled Major General, William Howe's planned second attack on the American army near White Plains on October 31. The next day the Americans were found to be apparently well entrenched at North Castle Heights. The rebel earthworks were composed largely of cornstalks pulled from nearby fields, whose roots, full of clinging soil, faced outward. Howe may have been discouraged by these illusory defenses, but his goal remained the complete removal of American troops from Manhattan, not the annihilation of Washington's army. His attention returned to Fort Washington which the American commander in chief had left garrisoned under Colonel Robert Magaw after a general rebel evacuation of the island. Press "Blue Button" for Synopsis of Battle of Fort Washington.
October 28, 1776. On the 12th of October, Sir William Howe embarked a large portion of his army in ninety flat-boats, and landed them on Throgg's Neck, a low peninsula jutting out from the main of Westchester County. He left a sufficient force under Lord Percy to hold the city and guard the British lines toward Harlem. Washington sent Heath to oppose Howe's landing, and to occupy lower Westchester. After encountering many difficulties from the opposition, Howe finally took post on the heights of New Rochelle, across the road leading to White Plains, where he was joined by General Knyphausen with a freshly arrived corps of German troops. Meanwhile Washington had sent McDougall, with his brigade, four miles beyond Kingsbridge, and a detachment to White Plains. He wished to evacuate Manhattan Island entirely, but an order had come from Congress to hold Fort Washington to the last extremity. At a council of war held on the 16th of October, he produced such proofs of the intention of the British to surround his army, that it was determined to move them all into Westchester excepting a garrison for Fort Washington. That was commanded by Colonel Magaw of the Pennsylvania line, with troops who came chiefly from that State. The army marched in four divisions, commanded respectively by Generals Lee (who had just arrived), Health, Sullivan and Lincoln, and moving up the valley of the Bronx River, formed entrenched camps from the heights of Fordham to White Plains. On the 21st, Washington made his headquarters near the village of White Plains. General Greene commanded a small force that garrisoned Fort Lee. Press "Blue Button" for Synopsis of Battle of White Plains.
Benedict Arnold (1741-1801) was a successful military leader early in his career, but his treasonous relationship with the British in the American Revolution marks him as an infamous traitor to the American cause. Before the Revolution, he was a well-to-do merchant. At the start of the Revolution, Arnold suggested that he could capture Fort Ticonderoga in New York. Benjamin Church made him colonel, and Arnold raised a regiment and captured the fort on May 10, 1775. He returned home victoriously and joined General George Washington's Continental Army. Washington next gave him command of an expedition to attack Quebec. Their attack on Quebec failed, but Arnold and his men managed to sustain a blockade. During this time, Arnold seriously wounded his knee. For his heroism Congress promoted him to brigadier general on January 10, 1776.
In 1776 Arnold repeatedly demonstrated his military prowess against British forces. Yet, Arnold threatened to resign when other brigadiers were promoted to major generals, but not him. At the encouragement of Washington, he again joined the army to stop the advance of General Burgoyne, Colonel Barry St. Leger, and Sir William Howe from the north. Arnold twice made two heroic attacks (once independently) against the British, leading to Burgoyne's surrender at Saratoga on October 17, 1776. During these forays, he was shot in the same leg as before, giving him a serious limp thereafter. Arnold's successes conflicted with his superior, General Horatio Gates, and he was temporality removed from his command.
In 1778 Washington appointed Arnold the military commander of Philadelphia after the British evacuated. In Philadelphia patriots accused him of using using public wagons for private profit and for making money for himself after he closed all the shops down in Philadelphia. Patriots also accused him of being to friendly with loyalists. After all, the British had just evacuated Philadelphia, and tensions were high between loyalists and patriots. Arnold then faced a court martial for corruption and resigned his post on March 19, 1779. Soon after resigning, Arnold sold his services to the British.
In May 1779 Arnold sent for Joseph Stansbury, who lived in Philadelphia and opposed armed resistance. Stansbury, with the help of Jonathan Odell, met with John André, the aide de camp of General Henry Clinton. In the following months, Arnold provided the British with a variety of military and political secrets. Arnold's treachery was revealed when André was captured on September 21. Arnold escaped to New York once the Americans discovered he was a spy. Arnold published a statement to encourage other Americans to join his cause. When this failed, we was made a British brigadier and sent on raids in Virginia. His successful attacks against forts in Virginia and New York permanently marked him as a traitor. After General Charles Cornwallis surrendered at Yorktown, Virginia in October 1781, Arnold and his family sailed back to England with Cornwallis. In Britain, he was not trusted with any military commands and failed as a merchant. He died in London in 1801.
Press the "Blue Button" for an exhibit on spy letters from the William L. Clements Library, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan. The Gallery of Letters provides a brief description of each letter and links to more information about the stories of the spies in the letter or the secret methods used to make the letter.
George Washington: An exhibit by John C. Dann, Director William L. Clements Library, May 8 to June 4, 2004 Few men have had as profound an influence on the course of recorded human history as George Washington. He precipitated a military skirmish that literally started a world war. It resulted in Britain's conquest of Canada and much of our own Midwest, including Michigan. He served as Commander in Chief throughout the Revolutionary War, the very embodiment of the conflict. As our first President, he endowed our political system with many of the precedents that make the United States the unique nation that it remains today. He was America's "first citizen," the "father of our country," the only President elected unanimously to office.
Yet he is a man little known today as a human being. He possessed a kind of natural reserve and dignity while "on the job" that was almost impenetrable, and held positions of public service most of his life. There was a more relaxed, private side to Washington that family members and close personal friends often saw. He had an ironic sense of humor. Although his own lifestyle was refined and aristocratic, he liked people and had exceptional rapport with the common man. But existing documentation provides only hints and glimpses of it. Any sort of understanding of the man was made difficult during his lifetime by the idealization that society demanded of it's first leader. Americans of the time needed a hero to rationalize the acts of inhumanity and deep personal sacrifice they had to make to bring the United States into existence. Press "Blue Button" for a comprehensive study of George Washington.
American Revolution - Militiamen Capture Spy
On September 23, 1780, Major John Andre, a British spy, was captured by three local militiamen, John Paulding, Isaac Van Wart, and David Williams. Major Andre was carrying papers describing the fortification of West Point, given to him by Benedict Arnold. The clandestine meeting near Haverstraw ended at dawn making it too risky for the Loyalists to row Andre back to the Vulture, which was to carry him back to British Headquarters in New York City. The next day the Americans fired upon the Vulture from Croton Point, forcing it to leave without Andre. There is a historical marker at the foot of Church Street because Americans again fired on the Vulture as it passed by Tarrytown. Benedict Arnold recommended that Andre travel by land on the eastside of the Hudson and was traveling south on horseback, eventually reaching the neutral territory of Tarrytown. John Paulding, who had recently escaped from a British prison in New York City was wearing a Hessian coat, and Andre approached the group thinking they were allies. He was stopped and questioned by the three militiamen who found the plans to West Point hidden in Andre's boot. Andre was brought to the authorities. He was tried and convicted as a spy and hanged in Tappan, New York on October 2, 1780.
In 1853, near Patriot's Park, a monument was erected to honor the three heroic militiamen. At a later dedication, the monument was increased and a bronze stature of John Paulding was added. There is a dedication in stone on the south side of the monument which reads "On this spot the 23rd day of September, 1780, the spy, Major John Andre, Adjutant General of the British Army, was captured by John Paulding, David Williams, and Isaac Van Wart, all natives of this county. History has told the rest. The people of Westchester County have erected this Monument, as well to commemorate a great Event, as to testify their high estimation of that Integrity and Patriotism which, rejecting every temptation, rescued the United States from most imminent peril by baffling the arts of a Spy and the plots of a Traitor. Dedicated October 7, 1853." On the north side of the block an inscription reads, "Their conduct merits our warmest esteem. They have prevented, in all probability, our suffering one of the severest strokes that could have been meditated against us" written by George Washington.
July 15, 1780, Letter from Benedict Arnold to John André - Source: The Goldstar Collection When Benedict Arnold wrote this letter to John André, he was still in Philadelphia. General George Washington had agreed to let Arnold have command of West Point on June 29, 1780. Arnold’s command included not only West Point but also the area from Fishskill to King’s Ferry, the infantry and cavalry on the east side of the river down to British lines, and the forts at Stoney Point and Verplanck’s Point. Arnold probably did not leave Philadelphia for West Point until after July 21. Nevertheless, in this letter Arnold offered to surrender West Point for 20,000 pounds. Because of delays in communication, Arnold did not know that his offer to surrender West Point had been accepted until August 24, 1780.
Inclosed in a cover addressed to M[r.] Anderson / Two days since I received a letter without date or Signature, / informing me that S[ir]. Henry ------ was obliged to me for intelligence / communicated, and that he placed a full confidence in the Sincerity / of my intentions, etc. etc. On the 13th Instant I addressed a letter / to you expressing my Sentiments and expectations, viz, that / the following Preliminaries be settled previous to cooperating. - / First, that S[ir]. Henry secure to me my property, valued at ten thou- / sand pounds Sterling, to be paid to me or my Heirs in case of / Loss; and, as soon as that happens [strike out] shall happen, ---- hundred / pounds per annum to be secured to me for life, in lieu of the / pay and emoluments I give up, for my Services as they shall / deserve - If I point out a plan of cooperation by which S[ir}. H[enry]. / shall possess himself of West Point, the Garrison, etc. etc. etc. twenty / thousand pounds Sterling I think will be a cheap purchase for / an object of so much importance. At the same time I request / thousand pounds to be paid my Agent - I expect a full / and explicit answer - The 20th I set off for West Point. A / personal interview with an officer that you can confide in / is absolutely necessary to plan matters. In the mean time / I shall communicate to our mutual Friend S[tansbur]y all the / intelligence in my power, until I have the pleasure of your answer. / Moore / July 15th [1780] / To the line of my letter of the 13th / I did not add seven.
July 12, 1780, Coded Spy Letter from Benedict Arnold to John André: Source: Collections of the Clements Library I 293.9.7 to C_t. B. 103.8.2. the 7th 152.9.17. that , a F__ 112.9.17. and 22.8.29 were 105.9.50 to / 4 9.71 in 62.8.20 with , 163.8.19 A 22.8.19 at with 230.8.13. 263.8.17 I gave Mr. S---y a 164.8.16 / 147.8.261 to be 209.9.216 in C----a and have from 163.8.17 to .163.8.17 .58.8.27 to him. / Such 147.8.21 as I 164.9.5 147.9.16 s which he 24.9.125 me has 169.9.23'd to you / I 129.8.7 .46.9.22'd no 19.8.29 to 175.9.17 . 158.8.8 - or any 177.8.13 . 168.9.13 . ------- / I 105.9.5. soon to 57.9.7 .at 288.9.8 , 198.9.26, and most . 230.8.12. by --- / 291.8.27 an 149.8.27 with ---255.9.11 . 148.8.22, 182.4.28 in whom a 175.9.12 / 67.8.28 could be .196.9.16 --- the 177.8.8 is .103.8.19 to 22.9.3, and / to 66.8.15 -- are 182.8.28, 169.8.25 be . 260.8.5 , 205.9.3 near / that 209.9.18. --- and 192.9.9'd to 224.9.9 on ,188.8.13 or some ---- / 182.8.28 on 188.8.13 sent 185.6.24 to 95.9.124 an .104.8.1 120.9.7, W------- 105.9.5's on the .22.9.14.---- / of 163.8.19 F----- 172.8.7s to 56.9.8 |30.000| 172.8.70 to 11.94. in / 62.8.20. If 179.8.25, 84.8.9'd, 177.9.28. N---- is 111.9.27.'d on / 23.8.10. the 111.9.13, 180.9.19 if his 180.8.21 an .179.8.25., 255.8.17. for / that, 180.9.19, 44.8.9 --a-- is the 234.8.14 of 189.8.17. I --- / 44.8.9, 145.8.17, 294.9.12, in 266.8.17 as well as, 103.8.11, 184.9.15.---- / 80.4.20. ---- I149.8.7, 10.8.22'd the 57.9.71 at 288.9.9, 198.9.26, as, a / 100.4.18 in 189.8.19-- I can 221.8.6 the 173.8.19, 102.8.26, 236.8.21's--- / and 289.8.17 will be in 175.9.7, 87.8.7--- the 166.8.11, of the .191.9.16 / are .129.19.21 'of --- 266.9.14 of the .286.8.20, and 291.8.27 to be an ---163.9.4 / 115.8.16 -'a .114.8.25ing --- 263.9.14. are 207.8.17ed, 125.8.15, 103.8.60--- / from this 294.8.50, 104.9.26 -- If 84.8.9ed -- 294.9.12, 129.8.7. only / to 193.8.3 and the 64.9.5, 290.9.20, 245.8.3 be at an, 99.8.14 . / the .204.8.2, 253.8.7s are 159.8.10 the 187.8.11 of a 94.9.9ing / 164.8.24, 279.8.16, but of a .238.8.25, 93.9.28. Press "Blue Button" to see decoded Spy letter.
The Culper Gang, June 27, 1779 - George Washington to Benjamin Tallmadge Source: Collections of the Clements Library In 1778, at Washington's orders Benjamin Tallmadge organized a spy network in New York City, the heart of the British forces. Tallmadge was to take all precautions that this ring would be extremely secret; in fact, it was so secret that Washington did not know who the men in the spy ring were. Robert Townsend, Aaron Woodhull, Austin Roe, Anna Strong, and Caleb Brewster made up this ring, and the code name for it was Samuel Culper. Press "Blue Button" for details of "The Culper Gang"
The American Revolution, 1775-1783 was a conflict between 13 British colonies on the eastern shores of North America and their parent country, Great Britain. The colonies won the war against the British and became a separate nation called "The United States of America". Many historians also refer to the American Revolution as "The American War of Independence".
The American Revolution, ended two centuries of British rule over most of the North American Colonies, resulting in the formation of the United States of America. The various causes of the American Revolution can be traced to the end of the French and Indian War, when Britain had succeeded in gaining territory from France at the expense of increasing its already enormous national debt. In an attempt to relieve Britain of its financial burden, British Parliament decided that the American Colonists would have to help pay for their own defense, despite the fact that a French invasion was no longer a real threat.
Toward this end, Parliament passed the first of several tax laws, the Stamp Act, which taxed all paper products in the colonies. The Americans declared it was unfair to tax them when they had no representation in Parliament, and protests eventually escalated to open hostilities in 1775, when the British Regulars fired on the Minutemen of Lexington, Massachusetts.
This conflict contributed to the formation of the Continental Congress (which directed the American war effort) and to the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. The first years of the war saw major defeats for American forces, who were outnumbered 3-1 by the British army, but the tide soon turned as nations such as France, Spain and the Netherlands offered troops and assistance, elevating the conflict to the status of an international war.
Eventually, George Washington's army and a force under the French Count de Rochambeau trapped Lord Cornwallis, the leader of the British army, in Yorktown. After a siege, Cornwallis surrendered his army of more than 7,000 men on October 19, 1781. However, it wasn't until the Treaty of Paris in 1783, a full eight years after the initial outbreak of violence, that Great Britain signed the formal peace treaty recognizing the former colonies as an independent nation.
Miss Jenny, August 15, 1781. Baron Ottendorf was a German mercenary who began fighting in the Revolutionary War on the side of the Americans. After Washington relieved him of duty in 1777, Ottendorf joined up with the British army under the leadership of Sir Henry Clinton. In this letter, Ottendorf took the deposition of a woman spy who had infiltrated the French armies fighting on the American side. Nothing is known of Miss Jenny's personal life or professional career in intelligence gathering, but her spying expedition played an important role in the British troops movements in the late summer of 1781. Earlier in the spring, Sir Henry Clinton learned from his spy network that American troops, under the leadership of General Washington, were planning to meet up with Rochambeaus French troops, cross the Hudson River and attack the British in New York City. Clinton and his men nervously watched the American and French armies? movements hoping to learn of Washington and Rochambeau?s strategies. In August of 1781, French and American troops crossed the Hudson River and settled near Tappan where New York militiamen were mobilizing. Press "Blue Button" for details of Miss Jenny and her impact on the outcome of the American Revolution.
The North County Trailway spans 22.1 miles in Westchester County, from Eastview in the Town of Mt. Pleasant, to Baldwin Place in Somers. It now continues for two more miles into Mahopac in Putnam County as the Putnam Trailway. The North County Trailway is a paved bicycle and pedestrian path located primarily on right-of-way lands of the former Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad.
The Putnam Railroad once served 23 stations in Westchester, some of which still stand today. Included is the Tudor-revival style Briarcliff Manor Station, which is now used as a public library. Other former stations can be found along the trailway in Millwood and in Railroad Park in Yorktown Heights. Historic marker plaques have been placed at most of the former station locations.
The South County Trailway is a paved bicycle and pedestrian path located primarily on right-of- way lands of the former Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad. The “Old Put,” as it was fondly referred to by commuters, provided freight and passenger service from 1881 to 1958 between the Bronx and Putnam County. Freight service continued to operate sporadically from Elmsford south, with the last freight train making its final run in August 1982.
The Putnam Railroad once served 23 stations in Westchester, some of which still stand today. The former Elmsford station is the only remaining station structure along the South County Trailway. It now houses a restaurant. Historic markers plaques have been placed at most of the former station locations.
You can save up to $3,660 a year on the cost of commuting to work by participating in a Pre-tax Transportation Benefit Program. Plus, your employer gets a tax benefit.
Press link to find out more about Westchester County's award winning program designed to encourage companies and their employees to use public transportation or commute alternatives for their commute to work.
Westchester County, like many other counties across the United States, experiences significant roadway congestion, particularly during the morning and evening rush hours. Working together with the State of New York and the Federal Government, Westchester County is committed to reducing traffic congestion and air pollution and enhancing the quality of life in our County.
Westchester's SMART COMMUTE Program partners with the County's employers and their employees providing free information, education and services which assist and encourage alternatives to driving alone to work. Westchester's SMART COMMUTE Program is administered by the Commute Alternatives Unit of the County's Department of Transportation.
Westchester Kids is designed to provide kids with information about things that will be useful and of interest to them. Some of the sites are for younger children and others for teens. Topics included in this site are: Driving, Education, Environment, Fun Stuff, Government, Health, History, Jobs/Volunteer, Recreation, The Arts, and Strictly Westchester. Westchester Kids' Recreation section includes links to various activities in Westchester County and nearby areas.
Have you ever wondered what you can do to nurture the musical growth of your child, regardless of you own musical ability?
Experience Music Together® and find out how important - and how much fun - your role can be! This spring we will be singing the Maracas song collection with favorites such as William Tell's Ride, Frere Jacques, Wiggle and The Russian Folk Song. With your participation our Music Together classes build on your child's natural enthusiasm for music and movement. We'll help you provide your child with the basic musical skills needed to enjoy school and social musical activities. Please contact us at for any questions you might have. Come join us for fun, music and laughter with the most wonderful people in the world, your children! Press "Blue Button" for locations, schedules, and more about Music Together.
The Westchester Children’s Museum will be a vibrant new learning center that will nurture curiosity, enhance knowledge, and ignite imagination in our children as they explore the history, arts, environment, and cultural diversity of their local and global communities.
Imagine a unique learning space – colorful, clean, with “a sense of space, light and air…” Filled with creative hands-on exhibitions and public programs. The Westchester Children's Museum will be an institution of distinction for our children, one that is fun and educational, and which reflects the true needs and interests of this community, from children and teenagers, to parents and caregivers, to teachers and educators. Drawing from the dramatic history, extensive cultural diversity, flourishing environments and ecosystems, and the rich literary and artistic traditions of Westchester, the exhibitions and programs of the Museum will be state of the art and:
Highly innovative, dynamic, engaging, fun and enriching
Appeal to audiences of different generations, backgrounds, emotional, physical, and learning abilities
Present visitors with the opportunity for hands-on interaction
Stimulate repeat visitation with changing exhibits, performances, and public programs
Press "Blue Button" for Westchester Museum Events and more information about The Westchester Children’s Museum.
Westchester Kids is designed to provide kids with information about things that will be useful and of interest to them. Some of the sites are for younger children and others for teens. Topics included in this site are: Driving, Education, Environment, Fun Stuff, Government, Health, History, Jobs/Volunteer, Recreation, The Arts, and Strictly Westchester. Westchester Kids' Recreation section includes links to various activities in Westchester County and nearby areas.
The North County Trailway spans 22.1 miles in Westchester County, from Eastview in the Town of Mt. Pleasant, to Baldwin Place in Somers. It now continues for two more miles into Mahopac in Putnam County as the Putnam Trailway. The North County Trailway is a paved bicycle and pedestrian path located primarily on right-of-way lands of the former Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad.
The Putnam Railroad once served 23 stations in Westchester, some of which still stand today. Included is the Tudor-revival style Briarcliff Manor Station, which is now used as a public library. Other former stations can be found along the trailway in Millwood and in Railroad Park in Yorktown Heights. Historic marker plaques have been placed at most of the former station locations.
The South County Trailway is a paved bicycle and pedestrian path located primarily on right-of- way lands of the former Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad. The “Old Put,” as it was fondly referred to by commuters, provided freight and passenger service from 1881 to 1958 between the Bronx and Putnam County. Freight service continued to operate sporadically from Elmsford south, with the last freight train making its final run in August 1982.
The Putnam Railroad once served 23 stations in Westchester, some of which still stand today. The former Elmsford station is the only remaining station structure along the South County Trailway. It now houses a restaurant. Historic markers plaques have been placed at most of the former station locations.
The Westchester County Police Bomb Squad is one of only 13 bomb squads in the State of New York and is accredited by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Comprised of highly skilled and exceptionally trained technicians, the members of this unit respond to calls for service that include:
Possible improvised explosive devices Bomb threats Military ordinance Volatile chemicals Deteriorated explosives Dangerous fireworks
The Bomb Squad utilizes specialized equipment to approach, inspect, disarm and/or remove all types of explosive devices. Bomb Squad members are adept at examining explosive devices in order to identify persons responsible for the devices’ manufacture. Follow-up investigations are an integral part of the Bomb Squad function.
Press "Blue Button for more information about the Westchester County Police Bomb Squad.
A listing of 30 public boat ramps. These ramps are located on the Hudson River, from Jersey City to Kingston, NY, with descriptions, directions and launching fees. Keep us posted on the conditions of these ramps! E-Mail us your reviews! Both Fishermen Feedback and Boaters Feedback Needed!
Osprey Marine Ltd. is a small company specializing in fishing charters and boating education, offering courses for Safe Boating Certification, vessel handling and navigation. Our vessel meets all Coast Guard requirements for safety and is designed for fishing as well as comfort. We supply all the necessary tackle for an exciting day on the water and look forward to serving you.
During the spring we concentrate on fishing for striped bass in the Hudson River during their spawning run. During the summer and early fall we fish Long Island Sound and offshore. Press "Blue Button" for more information about Osprey Marine and Hudson River Striped Bass fishing.
The North County Trailway spans 22.1 miles in Westchester County, from Eastview in the Town of Mt. Pleasant, to Baldwin Place in Somers. It now continues for two more miles into Mahopac in Putnam County as the Putnam Trailway. The North County Trailway is a paved bicycle and pedestrian path located primarily on right-of-way lands of the former Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad.
The Putnam Railroad once served 23 stations in Westchester, some of which still stand today. Included is the Tudor-revival style Briarcliff Manor Station, which is now used as a public library. Other former stations can be found along the trailway in Millwood and in Railroad Park in Yorktown Heights. Historic marker plaques have been placed at most of the former station locations.
The South County Trailway is a paved bicycle and pedestrian path located primarily on right-of- way lands of the former Putnam Division of the New York Central Railroad. The “Old Put,” as it was fondly referred to by commuters, provided freight and passenger service from 1881 to 1958 between the Bronx and Putnam County. Freight service continued to operate sporadically from Elmsford south, with the last freight train making its final run in August 1982.
The Putnam Railroad once served 23 stations in Westchester, some of which still stand today. The former Elmsford station is the only remaining station structure along the South County Trailway. It now houses a restaurant. Historic markers plaques have been placed at most of the former station locations.
Early Dutch settlers were attracted to the area now known as "Historic River Towns" of Westchester. Visit the charming many towns overlooking the Hudson River and walk through areas both rich in history and beautiful to explore. Tourists and Weschester residents will enjoy wonderful sites including: Old Croton Aqueduct State Historic Park, The Old Dutch Burying Ground in Sleepy Hollow, Lasdon Park Arboretum & Veterans Memorial consisting of woodlands, grass meadows, formal gardens or the beautiful Lyndhurst National Trust Historic Landmark.
Bring your family and experience the wonder of the Hudson River Valley with special programs and events geared especially for children.
Philipsburg Manor in Sleepy Hollow, New York, may be the most popular site in the Hudson Valley for children. This working 17th century farm and trading center features demonstrations of early farm techniques with oxen, cows, and sheep. A working water-powered grist-mill is fascinating for children of all ages. Demonstrations of spinning and open-hearth cooking in the tenant farmer's house are scheduled frequently.
New York's State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) helps communities identify, evaluate, preserve, and revitalize their historic, archeological, and cultural resources. The SHPO administers programs authorized by both the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the New York State Historic Preservation Act of 1980.
Westchester County Westchester County occupies a 450 square-mile area bounded on the west by the Hudson River, on the north by Putnam County, on the east by Fairfield County, Connecticut, and the Long Island Sound, and on the south by the Borough of the Bronx, New York City. The county has an estimated 1998 total population of about 897,920 persons, a 2.6 percent increase from 1990, and encompasses six cities, 14 towns, and 23 villages. The majority of the principal roadways and all the railroad lines in Westchester run north to south, following the orientation of the river valleys. Residential development has historically followed this pattern, spreading north as densities increased in the South and Central County areas. Over all travel patterns are primarily north to south because of the concentration of employment centers in New York City and southern and central Westchester. However, within some towns such as Cortlandt, travel patterns are often east west to access major traffic arterials.
Topography Westchester County generally exhibits a beautiful diversity of surface. The northwestern corner is considerably broken by the south east border of the Highlands, of a mountain character, and a range of hills of moderate height extends from York Island towards the north east extremity on which are situated the heights and hills much known in the revolution. Based upon primitive rock, the soil is naturally sterile, but is rendered productive by careful and painful cultivation.
For the most part, the communities in northern Westchester are less densely populated and have less commercial development than those in central and southern Westchester. Urban development in the North County area is generally confined to historic transportation corridors along the Hudson River, the New York to Albany rail line, and the Route 9 highway, the old New York to Albany Post Road. The eastern part of the North County area, including the Towns of North Salem, Lewisboro, and Pound Ridge, tends to be less developed than the western part.
Westchester History Before the days of railroads or highways, Westchester had the trade routes of the Hudson River and Long Island Sound; later, in the 18th century, the primitive post roads to Albany and Boston were cut through Westchester's rolling, wooded hills.
Learn about Westchester County history and its role in the American Revolution, the arrival of the railroads in the 1840s and more. Also read "History and Antiquities", a general collection of interesting facts, traditions, biographical sketches, and anecdotes about Westchester County and its towns. "Old" and "New" History of Westchester County
The Westchester Children’s Museum will be a vibrant new learning center that will nurture curiosity, enhance knowledge, and ignite imagination in our children as they explore the history, arts, environment, and cultural diversity of their local and global communities.
Imagine a unique learning space – colorful, clean, with “a sense of space, light and air…” Filled with creative hands-on exhibitions and public programs. The Westchester Children's Museum will be an institution of distinction for our children, one that is fun and educational, and which reflects the true needs and interests of this community, from children and teenagers, to parents and caregivers, to teachers and educators. Drawing from the dramatic history, extensive cultural diversity, flourishing environments and ecosystems, and the rich literary and artistic traditions of Westchester, the exhibitions and programs of the Museum will be state of the art and:
Highly innovative, dynamic, engaging, fun and enriching
Appeal to audiences of different generations, backgrounds, emotional, physical, and learning abilities
Present visitors with the opportunity for hands-on interaction
Stimulate repeat visitation with changing exhibits, performances, and public programs
Press "Blue Button" for Westchester Museum Events and more information about The Westchester Children’s Museum.
The Westchester Children’s Museum will be a vibrant new learning center that will nurture curiosity, enhance knowledge, and ignite imagination in our children as they explore the history, arts, environment, and cultural diversity of their local and global communities.
Imagine a unique learning space – colorful, clean, with “a sense of space, light and air…” Filled with creative hands-on exhibitions and public programs. The Westchester Children's Museum will be an institution of distinction for our children, one that is fun and educational, and which reflects the true needs and interests of this community, from children and teenagers, to parents and caregivers, to teachers and educators. Drawing from the dramatic history, extensive cultural diversity, flourishing environments and ecosystems, and the rich literary and artistic traditions of Westchester, the exhibitions and programs of the Museum will be state of the art and:
Highly innovative, dynamic, engaging, fun and enriching
Appeal to audiences of different generations, backgrounds, emotional, physical, and learning abilities
Present visitors with the opportunity for hands-on interaction
Stimulate repeat visitation with changing exhibits, performances, and public programs
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"How do those cookies stay so fresh and moist after sitting on the supermarket shelves for weeks? Part of the answer is trans-fat, a partially hydrogenated fat that is used, among other things, to make crackers and cookies stay fresh tasting longer. Recently the Federal Food and Drug Administration began requiring that information on trans-fat content be included on all food labels. The reason is that it can raise “bad” cholesterol levels while lowering “good” cholesterol levels.
As part of my Be Fit Westchester initiative, www.westchestergov.com/fitness/ lists restaurants that have pledged not to cook in oils that have trans- fat. It is another weapon in Westchester County’s fight against obesity and related diseases. It is important to note that the restaurants listed here are not health food restaurants nor do they claim to serve healthier foods than other restaurants. The eating establishments listed here simply have pledged to use cooking oils that do not contain trans-fat, a move we feel is a step in the right direction." Message by Andy Spano, Westchester County Executive
FDA Labeling Requirements The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) now requires food manufacturers to list trans fat (i.e., trans fatty acids) on Nutrition Facts and some Supplement Facts panels. Scientific evidence shows that consumption of saturated fat, trans fat, and dietary cholesterol raises low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol levels that increase the risk of coronary heart disease. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health, over 12.5 million Americans suffer from coronary heart disease, and more than 500,000 die each year. This makes coronary heart disease one of the leading causes of death in the United States today.
FDA has required that saturated fat and dietary cholesterol be listed on the food label since 1993. By adding trans fat on the Nutrition Facts panel (required by January 1, 2006), consumers now know for the first time how much of all three -- saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol -- are in the foods they choose. Identifying saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol on the food label gives consumers information to make heart-healthy food choices that help them reduce their risk of coronary heart disease. This revised label, which includes information on trans fat as well as saturated fat and cholesterol, will be of particular interest to people concerned about high blood cholesterol and heart disease. However, all Americans should be aware of the risk posed by consuming too much saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol.
What is Trans Fat? Trans fat is an artery-clogging fat that can be found in vegetable shortenings, some margarines, crackers, cookies, snack foods, and other foods made with or fried in partially hydrogenated oils.
Why are they bad for you? Trans fat is made when manufacturers add hydrogen to vegetable oil--a process called hydrogenation. Hydrogenation increases the shelf life and flavor stability of foods containing these fats. Trans fats do the same thing in our bodies that bacon grease does to kitchen sinks. The stiffer and harder fats are, the more they clog up your arteries. Over time, they can "clog the pipes" that feed the heart and brain, which can lead to heart attack or stroke risk. Trans fats increase your risk of heart disease. The human body has no need for these man-made fats.
Trans fats cause significant and serious lowering of HDL (good) cholesterol and a significant and serious increase in LDL (bad) cholesterol; make the arteries more rigid; cause major clogging of arteries; cause insulin resistance; cause or contribute to type 2 diabetes; and cause or contribute to other serious health problems.
Why have Trans Fatty Acids been put into so many food products? Food manufacturers started putting them in products because they allow for a longer shelf life. Crackers, for example, can stay on the shelf and stay crispy for years in part because of the hydrogenated fats in them.
Are Trans fats bad for kids? Trans fats increase the risk for heart disease. Therefore, children who start at age 3 or 4 eating a steady diet of fast food, pop tarts, commercially prepared fish sticks, stick margarine, cake, candy, cookies and microwave popcorn can be expected to get heart disease earlier than kids who are eating foods without trans fats. While a person may not get heart disease until they are in their 40s, by starting healthy eating habits early, parents can help their children avoid heart attacks and stroke.
How can I keep my family healthy? The goal is to have as little trans fat in your diet as possible. You can start by learning to read food labels when shopping.
The Performers of Westchester was founded in 1979 by pianist Joel Rosen with the purpose of arranging chamber music performances in homes rather than in concert halls. As a result, we can listen to chamber music in an ambience intended by the composer. The performances are arranged by our artistic director, Andy Simionescu, with the musicians selected being professionally established, performing artists. The programs include the more frequently heard chamber music repertoire as well as modern, rarely presented or unusual pieces.
Putnam / Northern Westchester BOCES is located at 200 BOCES Drive, Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 in Westchester County. BOCES has a 240-acre campus in Yorktown Heights and Tech Center buildings located in Carmel in Putnam County. Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES continues to grow and change according to the needs of its 18 local school districts.
"We are always striving to be more flexible, offering services based on new technology, new standards, or new needs. That is reflected in many of our offerings. At The Tech Center, computers are thoroughly integrated into everyday teaching. Academic courses in English, math, economics, science, and health are offered at The Tech Center building to make it easier for students to manage their schedules and to help them earn their diplomas. The end result of a Tech Center education is a successful transition to the world of work or college.
In Special Education, children are prepared for the world after they leave us — back to their home district or to work in the larger community. Through innovative programs, such as Community Outreach Program and MOVE, they are encouraged to move and communicate more effectively.
Nationally known educational experts are brought to BOCES on a regular basis to help train teachers in the new standards, science techniques, or data management, to name just a few priorities. We offer districts a variety of programs, from an on-line application system to cooperative bidding and school communications. In each case, quality and economics play an important part.
Putnam/Northern Westchester BOCES reaches across the spectrum in terms of the children it serves, from those with special needs to those with special gifts. We are living in a world that says every child should succeed. For some, this is a difficult challenge, but we are determined to use the tools necessary to make that happen. For others, we can use more sophisticated tools to provide a higher-level learning experience. Without BOCES, many of these students would not be able to meet with the kind of success they are capable of achieving..." James T. Langlois, District Superintendent
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Southern Westchester BOCES "Central Administration" is located at 17 Berkley Drive, Rye Brook, NY 10573 in Westchester County. The Southern Westchester Board of Cooperative Educational Services (SW BOCES) was established in 1948 by the New York State Commissioner of Education and the Board of Regents to provide shared educational and management services to schools and school districts in our geographic region. From those beginnings, SW BOCES has grown to offer hundreds of cooperative, cost-efficient services to school districts in the region, encompassing 187 different schools, 104,000 students, and more than 650,000 adults who live and work here.
Special Act Districts are created by separate and special acts of the New York State Legislature. These districts provide unique educational and therapeutic opportunities to students who have experienced difficulty or failure in previous school settings. Special act districts are located on the grounds of residential child-care facilities licensed by the Department of Social Services. Special Act Districts include:
Component School Districts include 33 school districts that participate in specific SW BOCES programs and services on a cost-sharing basis. They receive partial reimbursement for those costs through state aid. School districts that contract with SW BOCES for services know that we are committed to accomplishing specific outcomes and will assist in any way to help meet the educational challenges of the 21st Century. Visit Southern Westchester BOCES Component School Districts for a list of Component School Districts.
Our seven Centers provide an array of more than 70 services to help school districts, teaching and administrative professionals, students, and the public with needs in the areas of special education, career and technical education, transportation, interscholastic athletics, adult and community services, technology, and professional development. In addition, our Human Resources department sponsors a Regional Career Fair and provides a Regional Certification Service. Services not offered by SWBOCES can be obtained through Cross-Contracts with other BOCES.
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School District Demographic Map of Westchester County and part of Putnam County. Map contains "most current" information available from WestchesterGov.com.
Press "Blue Button" to access School District Demographic Map. Press each school district to see details of population, household, etc. View the communities covered by each district on the map.
Enjoy a fish dinner at one of the many seafood restaurants in Westchester County. Get excellent seafood in Southern, Central or Northern Westchester. Westchester County offers many seafood restaurants where you can dine on healthful and delicious fish.
On a warm day, treat yourself to one of the waterfront dining spots along the Hudson River or Long Island Sound. Westchester's River Towns offer many beautiful views and several restaurants with waterfront dining and a selection of seafood dishes. Find Waterfront Dining restaurants. Order a seafood dinner, look out over the water, and relax in one of the charming River Towns along the Hudson.
If you love seafood, and the weather is warm, eat out on the terrace, patio, or deck, at one of Westchester County's great seafood restaurants along the waterfront.
Click to enlarge photo of Sunset on Bear Mountain road.
Drive along Route 202W/6W and enjoy spectacular views of the Hudson River. Park the car at this scenic view point one mile from the Bear Mountain Bridge. The bridge spans the Hudson River between Rockland County and Westchester County and carries a section of the world famous Appalachian Trail.
Bear Mountain Bridge The Bear Mountain Bridge is a Suspension bridge. It was completed in 1924. According to the New York State Department of Transportation, the Bear Mountain Bridge carries approximately 20,000 vehicles per day across the Hudson River. In addition to carrying one 12-foot-wide lane in each direction for US 6 and US 202, the roadway has eight-foot-wide shoulders for pedestrians and cyclists that accommodate the Maine-to-Georgia Appalachian Trail. To discourage through trucks from using the bridge, the NYSBA prohibits rigs weighing more than 56 tons from using the span.
As the oldest elected office in our county, the Westchester County Clerk has served the residents of Westchester for over 300 years by maintaining and preserving the official documents and records of our rich history. From safeguarding court records, to recording deeds and mortgages, to naturalizing our newest citizens, our responsibilities are varied and significant. We invite you to browse through our website where you can read the latest news, search indexes for legal filings or land records, find out whether your plumber or electrician is licensed, download passport application forms and so much more. Press "Blue Button" for more information.
Caramoor Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts 149 Girdle Ridge Road Katonah, NY 10536 Fall 2008 & Spring 2009 Concerts
Great Artists in the Music Room - Subscribe Now and Save
Join us at the 2008-09 Caramoor Indoors season. We will be taking a close look at two composers in our jewel box of a theater - the 200-seat Music Room, which is ideal for chamber music and the programs we're presenting.
The fall will be devoted to the music of J.S. Bach. From his great grandfather to his grandsons, his family produced a long line of composers; music was in their blood.
In the spring months, we'll be celebrating the 200th birthday of the ever-young Felix Mendelssohn in three concerts offering a wide range of his cha
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