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With a population of 30,541 as of the 2010 census, Poughkeepsie is a medium-sized city located in the Hudson Valley region of New York state. It is the county seat and economic hub of Dutchess County, where it resides. Poughkeepsie has a rich history going back to the 1700s and today boasts a diversified economy, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural scenery.

History

The area that is now Poughkeepsie was originally inhabited by the Wappinger tribe. In 1687, a group of Dutch settlers purchased land from the tribe and established a village they called Apokeepsing, meaning "safe harbor." By 1799, the village was renamed Poughkeepsie after the native term for "reed-covered lodge by the little water place."

During the 1800s, Poughkeepsie became an important center for trade and industry. Its location along the Hudson River made it a major port and manufacturing hub. Whaling, brickmaking, papermaking, and other enterprises drove the local economy. The city was incorporated in 1854.

Poughkeepsie is home to Vassar College, a prestigious liberal arts college founded in 1861 as one of the nation's first institutions of higher education for women. Prominent historical figures including Franklin D. Roosevelt and Elizabeth Cady Stanton have called Poughkeepsie home over the centuries.

Today, Poughkeepsie retains much of its historic architecture in areas like the Main Street Historic District. For more on the history of Poughkeepsie, visit the Adriance Memorial Library.

Economy and Major Employers

Once dominated by manufacturing, Poughkeepsie's economy today centers around education, healthcare, technology, and tourism. Top employers include:

• Vassar College - 124 Raymond Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12604 - (845) 437-7000
• IBM - 1956 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 - (845) 433-4949
• Health Quest - 1351 Route 55, Lagrangeville, NY 12540 - (845) 475-9500
• Marist College - 3399 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 - (845) 575-3000
• MidHudson Regional Hospital - 241 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 - (845) 483-5000

Other major contributors to the local economy include retail, healthcare, finance, and technology companies. Unemployment in the city is low at around 3-4%.

For more on economic development in Poughkeepsie, visit the Dutchess County Economic Development Corporation.

Attractions and Landmarks

Poughkeepsie offers attractions and activities year-round. Popular sites include:

• Walkway Over the Hudson: This former railroad bridge was converted into the longest elevated pedestrian bridge in the world at 1.28 miles. It provides breathtaking views over the Hudson River and surrounding valley. Website. GPS coordinates: 41.700582, -73.933498. Address: 61 Parker Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
• Locust Grove Estate: Historic 1804 Italianate villa that was home to Samuel Morse and later donated to a preservation society. It features trails, gardens, and Hudson River views. Website. GPS coordinates: 41.776841, -73.918755. Address: 2683 South Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
• Mid-Hudson Children's Museum: Interactive museum with hands-on exhibits for kids focused on science, eco-awareness, and culture. Website. GPS coordinates: 41.700948, -73.933498. Address: 75 North Water St, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.

The city also boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene. Venues like the Bardavon Opera House and Cunneen-Hackett Arts Center offer live performances, exhibits, and events throughout the year.

Public Transportation

The Dutchess County Public Transit provides bus transportation throughout Poughkeepsie and surrounding communities. Their City Bus system offers routes to popular destinations like Main Street, Vassar College, Galleria Mall, and more. Schedules and fare info are available on their website.

In addition to buses, the Poughkeepsie Train Station provides Amtrak service along the Hudson River line, with connections to New York City, Albany, and points north and south.

Education

Poughkeepsie is served by several school districts:

• Poughkeepsie City School District - 11 College Ave, Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 - (845) 451-4900
• Arlington Central School District - 144 Todd Hill Rd, Lagrangeville, NY 12540 - (845) 486-4460
• Wappingers Central School District - 167 Myers Corners Rd, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590 - (845) 298-5000

In addition to public schools, several private high schools and higher education options are located in the city, including Vassar College and Marist College.

Local Resources

Official city government website: www.cityofpoughkeepsie.com - 62 Civic Center Plaza, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 - (845) 451-4060

Visitor and tourism website: Travel Dutchess

Poughkeepsie is located in Dutchess County. Visit the Dutchess County Government Website - 22 Market Street, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601 - (845) 486-2000

Local sports teams include the Poughkeepsie Giants minor league baseball team.

Follow Poughkeepsie community happenings on the city's Facebook page.

Map of Poughkeepsie: