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Peru, NY

Frequently asked questions

Peru, NY

Peru is a town in Clinton County in the U.S. state of New York. The population was 6,772 at the 2020 census. The town was so named for its views of the Adirondack Mountains to the west and the farmlands throughout the town, resembling scenery found in the country of Peru in South America. Peru, New York, is in the southeastern part of Clinton County, south of Plattsburgh.

The area was first settled by Connor VanNess in 1772. The Battle of Valcour Island was fought in Lake Champlain in the eastern part of Peru in 1776.

Peru was formed from parts of the towns of Plattsburgh and Willsboro (the latter now in Essex County) in 1792. Part of Peru was returned to Willsboro in 1799. In 1838, part of the town was used to form the towns of Au Sable and Black Brook.

On April 20, 2002, around 6:50 am, a magnitude 5.2 earthquake was centered in the western part of Peru, 15 miles (24 km) southwest of Plattsburgh with only marginal damages.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town of Peru has a total area of 92.4 square miles (239.3 km2), of which 78.9 square miles (204.3 km2) is land and 13.5 square miles (34.9 km2), or 14.60%, is water.

The eastern part of the town fronts on Lake Champlain, and the eastern town line, in the center of the lake, is the state border with Vermont. The Ausable River forms part of the southern town line, and the Little Ausable River flows eastward through the southern section of Peru.

The Adirondack Northway (Interstate 87) and U.S. Route 9 are north-south highways through the town. New York State Route 22, New York State Route 22B, and New York State Route 442 (an east-west highway), also known as the Bear Swamp Road, intersect at Peru Village.

Health and wellness are paramount in Peru, with the city offering various amenities and services to support the well-being of its residents. The North Country Mission of Hope is a cornerstone in providing comprehensive healthcare services to the community. Explore the parks, facilities, and programs the Peru Parks and Recreation Department offers. These spaces provide opportunities for outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, sports, and picnicking. Join local fitness centers and gyms to participate in exercise programs, fitness classes, and strength training. Some popular options include Planet Fitness and Primary Gym. Discover the walking and biking trails in and around Peru, such as the Lamoille Valley Rail Trail and Cross Vermont Trail. These trails offer opportunities for outdoor exercise and enjoyment of nature.

The top sites in Peru, NY are the Northern Orchard Co., Inc., Adirondack Golf & Country Club, and Babbie Rural & Farm Learning Museum.

Population: 6,772 (2020). Elevation: 451 ft (137 m). ZIP Code: 12972. Area code(s): 518. Area: 92.38 sq mi (239.26 km2).

FAQs

When was Peru, NY founded?

Peru is a town in the eastern part of Clinton County, NY, just south of Plattsburgh, NY. Nestled between the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain, the Town of Peru was formed from Plattsburgh and Willsborough on Dec. 28, 1792. Today, Peru offers residents and visitors alike a peaceful retreat amidst its scenic surroundings, inviting exploration and appreciation of its natural beauty.

What is the history of Peru, NY?

The area was first settled by Connor VanNess in 1772. The Battle of Valcour Island was fought in Lake Champlain in the eastern part of Peru in 1776. Peru was formed from parts of the towns of Plattsburgh and Willsboro (the latter now in Essex County) in 1792. Part of Peru was returned to Willsboro in 1799.

Why is Peru, NY called Peru?

Located just south of Plattsburgh, Peru is nestled between the Adirondack Mountains and Lake Champlain. Some early settlers thought the mountains surrounding the region resembled those of Peru, and South America, hence the origin of the town's name. This historical connection adds a unique charm to Peru, enriching its identity and inviting exploration of its scenic vistas and cultural heritage.

Sources

Wikipedia

Town of Peru

North Country Mission of Hope 

Peru Parks and Recreation Department 

Primary Gym

Lamoille Valley Rail Trail 

Cross Vermont Trail 

Northern Orchard Co., Inc.

Adirondack Golf & Country Club

Babbie Rural & Farm Learning Museum

Go Adirondack

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