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Lewis County, New York

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Article Genealogy
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Lewis County, New York
CountyLewis County
StateNew York
Founded1805
SeatLowville
Largest townLowville
Area total sq mi1,290
Area land sq mi1,275
Area water sq mi15
Population as of2020
Population total26,582
Population density sq mi20.9
Time zoneEastern
Named forMorgan Lewis
Ex image capThe Lewis County Courthouse in Lowville

Lewis County, New York is a county located in the northern part of the U.S. state of New York. It was formed in 1805 from parts of Oneida County and named for Morgan Lewis, the fourth Governor of New York. The county seat and largest community is Lowville. The region is characterized by its rural landscape, significant agricultural production, and historical importance in the development of the Black River corridor.

History

The area was originally part of the Macomb's Purchase, a massive 1792 land transaction between the State of New York and Alexander Macomb. Early settlement was slow, hampered by its remote location and dense forests, but increased following the War of 1812. The county's development was heavily influenced by the timber industry, with the Black River serving as a vital conduit for logging and the transport of goods to Lake Ontario. Key historical events include the construction of the Black River Canal, which connected the county to the Erie Canal system in the 1850s, and the establishment of Fort Drum, a major United States Army installation whose land extends into the county from neighboring Jefferson County. The Tug Hill region has a notable history of heavy lake-effect snow.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 1,290 square miles, of which 1,275 square miles is land and 15 square miles is water. The county lies within the Adirondack Mountains foothills and includes the western portion of the Tug Hill Plateau, known for its extreme winter weather. Major waterways include the Black River, the Independence River, and the Moose River. It is bordered by Jefferson County to the north, St. Lawrence County to the northeast, Herkimer County to the southeast, Oneida County to the south, and Oswego County to the southwest.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 26,582. The racial makeup was predominantly White, with smaller populations of African American, Native American, Asian, and Hispanic or Latino residents. The population density is among the lowest in New York, reflecting its rural character. Major ancestry groups include German, Irish, English, Italian, and French. The presence of Fort Drum influences demographic and economic trends in the northern part of the county.

Government and politics

The county government operates under a Board of Legislators model, with legislators elected from individual districts. The county is part of the New York's 21st congressional district and the New York State Senate's 47th District. Historically, it has been a Republican stronghold in both local and national elections, consistently supporting Republican candidates in presidential elections such as Donald Trump in 2016 and 2020. Other elected offices include the County Sheriff, District Attorney, and County Clerk.

Economy

The economy is primarily based on agriculture and related industries, with dairy farming being the dominant agricultural sector. The county is a major producer of mozzarella cheese, notably at the Kraft Heinz plant in Lowville. Forestry and wood products remain important historical industries. Fort Drum is a significant economic driver, providing civilian employment and supporting local businesses. Tourism also contributes, with activities centered on Tug Hill snowmobiling, hunting, fishing, and Amish community tours in areas like Croghan.

Communities

The county contains no incorporated cities. Its communities consist of towns, villages, and hamlets. The county seat is the village of Lowville within the town of Lowville. Other significant towns and villages include Harrisville, Copenhagen, Lyons Falls, Port Leyden, Turin, West Turin, and Croghan. Numerous smaller hamlets and census-designated places, such as Castorland and Glenfield, are spread throughout the rural landscape.

Category:Lewis County, New York Category:1805 establishments in New York (state) Category:Counties of the Tug Hill