|
North
Salem is somewhat of an equestrian's dreamland. The town's farming
history paved the way for plenty of open spaces and a rural setting,
attractions that draw residents who enjoy the serenity and strive to
maintain North Salem's country qualities. With old churches and
barns converted into houses lining the windy roads, horse-crossing
signs are nearly as necessary as stop signs. Lean, strong horses can
be seen grazing on the lush lawns of horse farms or behind fences
close to the road, and are as common a sight in North Salem as
squirrels or deer. Its hamlets of Purdys, Croton Falls, Salem
Center, and North Salem have small shopping areas amid open roads
and horse farms, offering things like produce and haircuts, a
handful of restaurants and small stores. For a grocery store or busy
shopping area, residents have to drive to a neighboring town, which
isn't difficult, with its close proximity to Connecticut and Putnam
County. The 23.4-square-mile town has its own school system with
nearly 1,450 students, from kindergarten through 12th grade. Its
library recently underwent a large-scale renovation and expansion,
growing from about 3,400 square feet to about 5,700 square feet, and
now houses a children's room. North Salem's history, dating back to
1731, resonates through the small town, which has a population of
about 5,200.Delancey Hall, one of the three buildings that comprise
Town Hall, is on the National Register of Historic Places. Driving
along Route 116, also known as Titicus Road, one can view historical
sites and structures, such as The Cable Barn, circa 1869, and
Balanced Rock, a 60-ton mound of granite that rests on five smaller
rocks. The rock does not match the make-up of typical rocks found in
the area, so its placement remains a mystery. It is thought to have
been left there during the glacial period. Antique shops can be
spotted along the town's roads as well, among the houses and
sprawling landscapes. Route 116 is one of Westchester's most
historic roads, having been marked as an escape route for George
Washington
and Benedict Arnold. The eccentric characters that have come through
the town over the years remain alive through storytelling, such as
the hermit Sara Bishop, who supposedly lived in a cave and
eventually froze to death there. In her spirit, people generally
like to keep to themselves around town. The town has become a
get-away for the rich and famous, including New York City Mayor
Michael Bloomberg, David Letterman, Alan Menken, Stanley Tucci
and others.
|