New Hartford, New York—a town of 21,634 people according to the 2020 census—began as a vision of Revolutionary War veteran Jedediah Sanger, who purchased 1,000 acres in 1788 and harnessed Sauquoit Creek’s power to set up grist, saw, and paper mills.
Sanger’s industrious spirit not only laid the groundwork for New Hartford’s economic roots but also influenced the establishment of the Paris Furnace Company in 1801, which produced iron goods that supported local agriculture and early industry. By the time the town separated from Whitestown in 1827, these businesses had already planted seeds for a community defined by innovation and resourcefulness.
Industry remained a defining force after municipal incorporation in 1869. Woolen mills such as Kellogg’s along Sauquoit Creek produced blankets and fabric that were distributed throughout upstate New York. Tanneries and leatherworks processed animal hides into goods for both regional markets and the burgeoning markets of Utica.
Restoration of New Hartford’s architectural heritage ties to these origins. St. Stephen’s Church, built in 1825 in Greek Revival and Federal style, reflects the lives of early settlers who embraced aesthetic principles. Underground Railroad safe-houses along Oxford Road suggest that sympathetic locals risked all to assist escaped slaves.
The New Hartford Historical Society, housed on Paris Road, displays artifacts like Sanger’s Bible and models of his mills, offering walking tours that trace the town's earliest industrial sites. Nearby, cultural engagement spills into nearby Utica through the Stanley Center for the Arts, where town residents regularly attend live theater performances, art exhibits, and concerts—an example of how the local arts scene connects with the wider region.
Recreational spots emerged as the town matured. Sauquoit Creek trails provide scenic walking and biking experiences along former industrial waterways, while Bellamy Harbor Park near the Erie Canal offers a scenic venue for fishing, picnicking, and watching historic barges pass through canal locks.
New Hartford’s dining scene offers a taste of the region’s heritage. Lafa Mediterranean by Zeina’s serves chicken shawarma pita wraps and baklava, earning rave 5-star local reviews, while Aqua Vino Restaurant pairs local ingredients with regional specialties such as chicken riggies and Italian risotto. Georgio’s Village Café delivers greens, stuffed mushrooms, and seafood pasta in a warm setting that locals describe as friendly and familiar.
The towering influence of Jedediah Sanger continues in modern landmarks such as Sangertown Square Mall, named to honor the town’s founder and acting as a retail destination that transcends mere shopping. The Olde Wicker Mill is a family owned boutique that opened in 1979 and now spans over 6,500 sq ft, offering a curated mix of brands like Vera Bradley and Crabtree & Evelyn alongside Brighton jewelry and WoodWick candles. Visitors praise its “tremendous array of unique items” and friendly, helpful service.
Events curated by the Historical Society deepen the town’s communal narrative. Seasonal walking tours highlight architectural gems like the 19th-century dwellings on Oxford Road and the fond memories of Centennial Day celebrations begun nearly 150 years ago. Guest lectures on local abolitionist activity and themed bus tours about early industry draw audiences who appreciate deeper knowledge rather than conventional tourist attractions.
Whether uncovering the stories behind New Hartford’s 19th-century homes on Oxford Road or attending lectures on the town’s abolitionist ties, it’s clear this is a place that honors its roots while investing in its future. That same balance defines the work of Mohawk Valley Premier Painters. We specialize in historic, modern, and commercial properties. Contact us today for more information.