Rolling hills, forests and waterfalls define Poestenkill’s terrain
Across Poestenkill are gently rolling meadows and forests. The community's name derives from the Poesten Kill, a waterway that extends across Rensselaer County, with streams branching throughout the area. "Poestenkill is a fabulous town that's both rural and a bedroom community that has its own character," says Tom Russell, the Poestenkill Town Supervisor. "On the western side of town, there are low flatlands. In the east, there are hills and a mountain section where homes are more spaced apart. It's a very beautiful place, with a deep generational history." The town was established in the mid-1800s and features a 90-foot waterfall and a landscape with elevations over 1,000 feet. "We are a small town in nature, not far from the Albany Metropolitan Area. As for employment, we are geared toward Troy and Schenectady," Russell says. Top regional employers include Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Country living with housing styles from Cape Cods to split-levels
Several housing options are along the rural roadways, from Cape Cods and split-levels to ranch-style homes and dwellings with colonial influences. Lots range from one to more than 10 acres, with some more spacious properties to the east. Wooded and cleared parcels of land are also available for buyers looking to build secluded houses in the country. Homes under 2,000 square feet typically cost between $200,000 and $470,000. Larger residences can range between $400,000 and $700,000.
The area is prone to flooding, especially near its many creeks. There is also a moderate risk of wildfire.
Hiking, skiing and waterfalls draw outdoor lovers
The rugged terrain provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. "We have Rensselaer Plateau and there's the Community Forest up there. We also have Barberville Falls, which is part of Hudson-Taconic Land group and is a recreational area," Russell says. Poestenkill Community Forest is a hotspot for hiking, hunting and skiing across its 436 acres. Locals can also hike the path that leads to the scenic 92-foot cascading waters at Barberville Falls Preserve. "We have a very active library in town. They put on demonstrations, shows and presentations for youth and adults," Russell says.
Residents travel for shopping but enjoy hometown traditions
Duncan's Farm to Market Country Store is inside the community. Residents leave the quiet town for restaurants and more grocery shopping. Drivers can reach a Hannaford grocery store in Wynantskill or West Sand Lake in about 5 miles. Nearby dining options include Paolo Lombardi's Ristorante and Mess Hall. Locals can look forward to recurring annual events in the community and around the region. "In town, we have a parade for Memorial Day and Halloween. The library also has Market Day several times a year. North and East Greenbush have summer events," Russell says.
Learning in the Averill Park School District
"We have a good school system. In Poestenkill, we have a middle school and an elementary school," Russell says. Students can attend the Averill Park School District, which receives a B-plus rating from Niche. Poestenkill Elementary has a B-plus and Algonquin Middle earns an A-minus. Averill Park High, which has a B grade, offers many extracurricular options, including clubs for coding, horticulture, fishing, robotics and writing.
Highways connect this rural town to nearby cities
The community is home to long-standing houses of worship like First Baptist Church of East Poestenkill and Union Gospel Church. Poestenkill is a car-dependent community, and drivers can take New York State Route 351 and 66 to get around. Downtown Troy and the Albany Medical Center are roughly 10 miles away. The Albany International Airport is approximately a 20-mile drive from town.
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Written By
Ashley Kennedy
