history
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Historians Office
Town of Morristown JoAnne Marcelletta PO Box 240 604 Main Street Morristown, NY 13664 Email: historian@townofmorristownny.org Phone: (315) 375-6560 Fax: (315) 375-4723 
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The Town of Morristown is comprised of three separate, but united hamlets: Edwardsville, Brier Hill and Morristown. People first came to the area in the early 1800's settling along the banks of the Black Lake and the St. Lawrence River. The Town of Morristown was officially established in 1821. Rich land along the scenic lake and access for trade and shipping on the majestic river proved a powerful lure to settlers during a time of The Great Immigration of 1870-1920.
Edwardsville sits at the heart of Black Lake and has long been a haven for campers, boating and water sports. Its outstanding fishing is a well-known fact throughout the country and generations of people flock here all year long. Brier Hill has a rich history of farmers, small business and hard-working folks dedicated to community service and raising families. At one point in the late 1800's there was lodging, a cheese factory, grocers, boot maker, barrel maker, wheelwright and blacksmith, schools, churches, Grange Hall and more. Brier Hill was home to industrious people intent on a fruitful life. The village of Morristown is built on a terraced bay of the St. Lawrence River. Commerce was busy during its earliest of days with river steamers, shipping and railroad due to its close proximity with Brockville, Ontario Canada. The wharf had at one time many industries that would eventually close due to wars, the depression and recession. Much of this history is on display at The Gateway Museum as tourism is the focus for the future of the village. Generations of families have lived in our town or return every summer to enjoy our cherished St. Lawrence River and beloved Black Lake for their many attributes. A town historian's primary responsibility is to obtain and preserve historical records. They will also promote and establish programs for public interest and education that will instill a pride in their community's past, and this pride will encourage future generations to guard our treasures for the next. |