Eclectic village culture thrives in the peaceful community of Sharon
Among the mountainous western outskirts of New York's Capital District, a historic village lies within a sleepy town. The town of Sharon encompasses this community, but its quiet northwestern village, Sharon Springs, is its charming hub. Collectively, the town and village form a community characterized by their historic homesteads, rural scenery and recreation options. "It's a very eclectic village that's welcoming to everyone," says local broker associate Michelle Curran of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services. She lives in Sharon Springs and has served area homebuyers for over 25 years. "Everyone checks on everyone. I mean, they all know what you had for dinner last night, because there are no secrets, but nobody lets anybody get in trouble." The community's historic charm and small businesses draw visitors for weekend getaways in spring and summer, but it remains pretty quiet in the winter. "It's sleepy in the winter," Curran says. "But we have each other."
Renovated Victorians and Colonials mix with rural ranch-styles
The community's earliest architecture includes a mix of Victorian and Colonial homes dating back to the early 19th century; they're mainly located in the village of Sharon Springs, but historic homes are scattered across the community. Many of the community's older homes have been renovated over the years. "We've all renovated. I'm on my second home renovation," Curran says. "People renovate the shops. We still have some very large hotels for sale that need renovation." As the community developed throughout the 20th century, its architecture broadened. "There's a lot of different kinds of houses out there," Curran says. Farmhouses and ranch-style homes sit on sizable lots on the community's rural outskirts. Many homes sit on a couple of acres of densely wooded land, while a few dozen properties cover at least 20 acres. Homes generally list from around $70,000 to $320,000, but a home on a large tract can sell for around $650,000.
One school serves all grades in this small rural district
Sharon Springs Central School serves pre-kindergarten through 12th grade students and scores an overall C-minus on Niche. The school serves a small community of around 300 on one campus, just off New York State Highway 20. It offers a robust list of electives, from agricultural science and meteorology to music theory and digital literacy.
Locals enjoy trails, waterfalls and forest recreation
Sharon is near several natural amenities and outdoor recreation areas. "There are a lot of snowmobile trails that run through here," Curran says. "And caverns and waterfalls are nearby." Two snowmobiling trails cut through Honey Hill State Forest, and hunting is permitted in Cherry Valley State Forest; both forests are about 14 miles away. Wintergreen Park, about 10 miles north of the community, connects folks with Canajoharie Falls and is popular for swimming and casual hikes. Howe Caverns sits about 11 miles from Sharon, and has cave tours and a quarter-mile boat ride. While much of the outdoor amenities are at least 10 miles away, Curran says that's an easy ride for most locals. "We think nothing of driving 10 miles," she says.
Locally owned shops and cafés fill historic village homes
Sharon Springs' shops and eateries are homey and quintessentially northeastern, operating out of historic houses and owned locally. "We have a few restaurants, and our shops are very eclectic," Curran says. "Austintacious is known for their chocolate and makes their own truffles, and McGillycuddy's [Natural Bath Products] makes their own cosmetics and candles." Black Cat Bakery and Café has specialty lattes and balsamic flights, and Brimstone Bakery has scones and other seasonal goods. Fancy Farmer is a popular spot for dinner, with hearty entrees like beef pot roast and Tuscan chicken.
Farm stands and markets offer fresh goods close to home
Locals also enjoy quick access to Schoharie County's abundant farm stands and markets. Sunnycrest Markets is an Amish market just north of the community with fresh produce, handmade pretzels and home décor. Locals head to Cobleskill for big-box shopping and chain stores. "We don't have any of the things we don't really want," Curran says. "Cobleskill has McDonald's and Burger King." Walmart Supercenter is about 9 miles away.
Locals rely on cars and have easy access to major highways
Locals mainly depend on cars to get around. "The worst traffic you're going to have is a tractor," Curran says. U.S. Route 20 cuts through the heart of the community and runs east toward Albany, which is about 45 miles east. Commuters also have access to New York state routes 10 and 145. Cobleskill Regional Hospital is about 8 miles away, and Albany International Airport is a 43-mile trip east.
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Written By
Brennen Martin
