About Otisville

Otisville is a village located in the town of Mount Hope in Orange County, New York, United States. The history of Otisville can be traced back to the early 19th century.

In the early 1800s, the village was known as "The Forge" due to the presence of a large iron forge that operated in the area. The forge was established in 1810 by William Bull and Isaac Smith, who leased land from the Mount Hope Iron Company. The forge produced iron for farming tools and machinery, and it also supplied iron to the United States government during the War of 1812.

In 1828, the name of the village was changed to Otisville in honor of William B. Otis, a prominent businessman who owned several mills and factories in the area. Otisville continued to grow throughout the 19th century, and by the early 1900s, it had become a bustling village with a population of over 1,000.

One of the most significant events in Otisville's history occurred in 1908, when a massive fire destroyed much of the village's downtown area. The fire began in a local hotel and quickly spread to nearby buildings, including several stores, a bank, and a post office. Despite the devastation, the village was quickly rebuilt, and new buildings were constructed to replace those that had been destroyed.

In the early 20th century, Otisville became known for its dairy farms and apple orchards, which supplied milk, cheese, and fruit to markets in New York City. The village also became a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to enjoy the area's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

Today, Otisville is a small, quiet village with a population of just over 1,000. It is home to a number of historic buildings and landmarks, including the Otisville Correctional Facility, which was established in 1980 and is one of the largest employers in the area. The village is also located near the Shawangunk Ridge, a popular destination for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.