Herkimer County, New York

Herkimer County, New York is a county located in the U.S. state of New York. It is part of the Mohawk Valley region, with its county seat located in the village of Herkimer. The county was formed in 1791 from a portion of Montgomery County and is named for Brigadier General Nicholas Herkimer, a hero of the American Revolutionary War.

History

The region was historically inhabited by the Iroquois Confederacy, particularly the Mohawk nation. European settlement increased following the construction of the Erie Canal, which spurred growth in villages like Little Falls. During the American Revolutionary War, the area was the site of significant conflict, including the Battle of Oriskany, a pivotal engagement in the Saratoga campaign. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the county's economy was heavily influenced by industries such as cheesemaking and the manufacturing of Remington Arms products in Ilion. The Adirondack Park was established in 1892, encompassing the northern portion of the county and shaping its development and land use patterns.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 2,297 square miles, making it one of the largest counties in New York by area. A significant portion of the northern section lies within the Adirondack Park, characterized by forests and numerous bodies of water like the Fulton Chain of Lakes. The southern part of the county is part of the Mohawk Valley and is drained by the Mohawk River and its tributaries, including West Canada Creek. Notable geographic features include the Herkimer diamond mining region around the village of Middleville and the dramatic gorge in Little Falls.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 60,139. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, American Indian, and Asian residents. The largest ancestry groups reported include German, Italian, Irish, and Polish. The population density is relatively low compared to other parts of New York, with the most populous municipalities being the cities of Little Falls and Ilion.

Government and politics

Herkimer County operates under a Board of Supervisors legislative structure. The county is part of New York's 21st congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by Elise Stefanik. At the state level, it lies within the New York Senate's 47th District and the New York Assembly's 101st District. The Republican Party typically performs well in county-level elections, though some local offices are held by members of the Democratic Party.

Economy

Historically centered on agriculture and manufacturing, the economy has diversified. Major employers include Remington Arms in Ilion (though its future has been uncertain), the Dairy Farmers of America cooperative, and Mohawk Valley Health System. Tourism is a growing sector, driven by attractions such as the Adirondack Scenic Railroad, Herkimer Diamond Mines, and access to the Adirondack Mountains for outdoor recreation. The county is also known for its production of Mozzarella cheese, with companies like Great Lakes Cheese operating facilities in the area.

Communities

The county contains two cities, Little Falls and Ilion. There are numerous towns, including Frankfort, Herkimer, German Flatts, and Old Forge. Incorporated villages include the county seat of Herkimer, as well as Mohawk, Poland, and Dolgeville. Several hamlets and census-designated places, such as Middleville and Newport, are also located within its borders. Category:Herkimer County, New York Category:1791 establishments in New York (state) Category:Counties of the Mohawk Valley