Brewster, NY, a charming village in Putnam County, seamlessly blends its 19th-century historical roots with modern amenities, creating a vibrant and diverse community. Boasting top-notch education, accessible healthcare, and a myriad of unique attractions, this enchanting locale captivates residents and visitors alike, making it a truly special place to call home.
Brewster’s Rich History
The charming village of Brewster, NY, located within the town of Southeast in Putnam County, boasts a captivating history that dates back to the 19th century. Founded by landowner Walter Brewster, the village got its start when he invited the New York and Harlem Railroad to build a depot on his property in 1848.
Fast forward to today, and Brewster still retains its historic allure. One notable landmark is the Walter Brewster House, a Greek Revival Style home built in 1850, which was designated a historic landmark in 1980. To learn more about the town’s history, make sure to visit the Southeast Museum, housed in the 1896 Old Town Hall.
A Snapshot of Brewster’s Community: Population and Demographics
In 2020, Brewster, NY housed 2,257 residents with an average age of 33 and a median income of $55,000. The village’s median home value reached $300,000, while the homeownership rate stood at 23.1%.
Rank | Ethnic Group | Percentage |
1 | Other (Hispanic) | 47% |
2 | White (Non-Hispanic) | 26.2% |
3 | White (Hispanic) | 14.8% |
4 | Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) | 4.52% |
5 | Other (Non-Hispanic) | 2.97% |
Transportation
Navigating Brewster, NY is effortless due to the various transportation options available. Here’s a list of the main transportation choices that make exploring the region and traveling to nearby areas easy for residents and visitors:
- Metro-North Railroad (MNR): The Metro-North Railroad operates hourly train services from Brewster to Grand Central, New York City, with the journey taking approximately 1 hour and 29 minutes.
- Putnam Transit: Putnam Transit operates local bus services, with buses running from the Brewster train station.
- Paratransit Service: For those requiring paratransit service, it’s available by calling (845) 878-RIDE (7433) between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on the day preceding service, at a fare of $3.25 one-way.
- Road Network: Brewster boasts excellent road accessibility, with Interstate 684 running through the village and offering car and truck parking spaces for northbound traffic between Exits 8 and 9.
Education
The education system in Brewster, NY is managed by the Brewster Central School District. This top-performing district offers a strong focus on promoting a positive school climate, ensuring that students are engaged, safe, and healthy. Students benefit from comprehensive academic programs and high-quality instruction, preparing them for success in college and beyond.
Health
The healthcare landscape in Brewster, NY is well-equipped, with several hospitals and urgent care facilities located nearby. Some of the closest hospitals include Putnam Hospital Center and Danbury Hospital, providing residents with access to a range of healthcare services. Urgent care facilities, such as PhysicianOne Urgent Care Brookfield, offer additional options for non-life-threatening medical care.
Popular Landmarks and Attractions
Brewster is home to numerous popular landmarks and attractions that showcase its unique character.
- Salingers Orchard Farm Market and Bakery – A family-owned orchard and bakery with a 120-year history, offering a variety of fresh orchard fruits and delicious baked goods to visitors.
- Green Chimneys Farm & Wildlife Center – A unique farm, wildlife rehabilitation center, and school open to the public on weekends, allowing visitors to explore the grounds and interact with a variety of animals.
- Walter Brewster House – A historic Greek Revival style house built in 1850, which once belonged to village founder Walter Brewster. The house now serves as a venue for events such as weddings, festivals, and corporate parties.
- Old Tilly Foster Mine – A historical iron mine site opened in 1853 and closed in 1895 due to a major collapse. The flooded mine is now preserved as an important piece of local history.
- Brewster Train Station – A significant historic station on the Harlem Line Railroad, which played a crucial role in Brewster’s growth and development.
- Remains of Borden’s Milk Factory – The ruins of a once-prosperous milk factory that provided employment and economic growth to Brewster during its operation.
- Southeast Museum – A museum established in 1963, highlighting the history and culture of Brewster and the surrounding area through exhibits on the Harlem Line Railroad, Tilly Foster Mine, Borden Milk Condensery, and more.
- Vails Grove Golf Course – A welcoming and relaxed 9-hole golf course suitable for golfers of all skill levels, set in a picturesque environment.
- Brewster Public Library – A well-maintained library with a quiet atmosphere, a variety of resources, and helpful staff, making it an ideal place for study, reading, and research.