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Potsdam Town, NY

Frequently asked questions

Potsdam Town, NY

Potsdam is a town in St. Lawrence County, New York, United States. The town population was 14,901 at the 2020 census. When SUNY Potsdam and Clarkson University are in session, the population increases by approximately 8,000 students. The town is named after the city of Potsdam in Germany. The town of Potsdam also contains a village named Potsdam. Potsdam is centrally located within the county and northeast of Canton, the county seat.

David Clarkson and Garret van Horn were early investors in the town, and settlement began around 1803. The newcomers found Native Americans residing in the town and the fur trade. The town was established in 1806 from part of the Town of Madrid. Potsdam is one of the original ten towns of St. Lawrence County. The community of Potsdam set itself apart from the town in 1831 by incorporating as a village. The community of Raquetteville was incorporated as the Village of Potsdam Junction (now Norwood) in 1871.

St. Lawrence Academy, the predecessor of the State University of New York at Potsdam was founded in 1816. In 1896, Clarkson University was founded. The Potsdam area is well known for its reddish-orange Potsdam sandstone. A large slab of it is on display at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. The First Presbyterian Church of Dailey Ridge and French Family Farm are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has an area of 103.4 square miles (267.9 km2), of which 101.5 square miles (262.8 km2) is land and 2.0 square miles (5.2 km2) (1.92%) is water. The Raquette River flows northward through the town's center. The Grasse River flows through the northwestern part of Potsdam.

Potsdam places a strong emphasis on health and wellness, with several facilities and programs dedicated to promoting the well-being of its residents. Canton-Potsdam Hospital is a trusted healthcare facility dedicated to serving the needs of the local community. Ives Park is a popular recreational area that offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy. The Potsdam Recreation Department organizes events and activities, including sports leagues, fitness classes, and outdoor adventures, catering to all age groups. The Tranquility Spa provides a serene environment with massages, facials, and holistic therapies. The Clarkson University Fitness Center offers state-of-the-art equipment, personal training, and a variety of group exercise classes. Harmony Yoga & Wellness hosts yoga and Pilates classes focused on core strength and flexibility. Planet Fitness promotes a judgment-free environment with a wide array of exercise equipment and group fitness classes. 

Top sites in Potsdam Town, NY are North Country Children's Museum, Potsdam Town & Country Club, and Potsdam Public Museum.

Population: 14,818 (2023). ZIP code: 13676. Area code: 315. Elevation: 433 ft (132 m). Area: 103.4 sq mi (267.9 km²).

FAQs

What are the Race and Ethnicity of Potsdam Town, NY?

The largest Potsdam town racial/ethnic groups are White (86.7%) followed by Asian (3.7%). Furthermore, Black individuals make up 3.2% of the population, further adding to the diversity and inclusivity of Potsdam town. Understanding the racial and ethnic demographics of Potsdam town is essential for fostering inclusivity, promoting cultural awareness, and addressing disparities to ensure the well-being of all residents.

What is the median income in Potsdam Town, NY?

In 2022, the median household income of Potsdam town households was $49,853. Potsdam town households made slightly more than Gouverneur town households ($49,786) and Hunter village households ($49,844). While these differences may seem slight, they can have significant implications for residents' financial stability, access to resources, and overall quality of life. Understanding these income statistics is essential for policymakers, businesses, and community organizations to address economic challenges, promote financial well-being, and improve opportunities for all residents in Potsdam town and neighboring areas.

What is the poverty rate in Potsdam Town, NY?

In 2022, the median household income of Potsdam town households was $49,853. Potsdam town households made slightly more than Gouverneur town households ($49,786) and Hunter village households ($49,844). However, 8.0% of Potsdam town families live in poverty.

Sources

Wikipedia

Town of Potsdam

SUNY Potsdam

NY Demographics by Cubit

ST. LAWRENCE HOSPITAL

Potsdam Public Museum

Clarkson University's Shipley Center for Innovation

Ives Park

Tranquility Spa 

Clarkson University Fitness Center

Harmony Yoga & Wellness

Planet Fitness

Potsdam Recreation Center

North Country Children's Museum

Potsdam Town & Country Club

Potsdam Public Museum

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