05/18/2026
On this day, May 18, 1805, Jefferson County was established. The county was named after the serving President, Thomas Jefferson. It was formed from what was part of Oneida County.
The county has played a significant role in American history. Not long after being established as a county, the War of 1812 broke out. Several key battles took place within Jefferson County, most notably the Battle of Sackets Harbor. Later in the 19th century the power of the Black River was harnessed and powered several major factories. As a result, for a moment in time, Watertown would hold the crown of “most millionaires per capita.” Bordered by the St Lawrence River to the North and Lake Ontario to the West tourism has always played a role in the county’s history. Several grand hotels were built around the time of the Gilded age. Many of which succumbed to fire.
Fort Pine, later renamed Fort Drum, plays a significant role within the county. With the gilded age glory of factories and railroads left behind the county attempts to reinvent itself. Fort Drum has served as a lifeline to the local economy. Otherwise, the county is primarily made up of rural farm land and seasonal tourism. The promise of a new Chobani factory in Rome, NY (Oneida County) has given the dairy farmers hope for a better tomorrow. In addition, county and local officials look to once again harness the power of the Black River to bring industry back.
What other monumental history do you know about Jefferson County? Share your history in the comments below ⬇️ 👇
(Picture is of Sunset in Clayton, NY on the grounds of the Harbor Hotel)
