Ferndale, New York facts for kids

Ferndale is a small community known as a hamlet in New York. It is located in Sullivan County, within the larger area called the Town of Liberty. A hamlet is like a very small village, often without its own local government, and Ferndale is one of these quiet spots.

Ferndale is found along an older part of Route 17, which is a major road in the state. It sits between two other places: Harris and the Village of Liberty. The special code for mail in Ferndale is 12734.

What is a Hamlet?

A hamlet is a type of community that is smaller than a village or a town. In New York, hamlets do not have their own separate local government. Instead, they are part of a larger town. This means that services like police, fire, and road maintenance are usually provided by the town government.

How Hamlets are Different

• Size: Hamlets are typically very small, with fewer people living there compared to villages or cities.
• Government: They don't have their own mayor or town council. Decisions are made by the government of the larger town they belong to.
• Services: Public services are shared with the rest of the town.

Ferndale's Location and Surroundings

Ferndale is in a part of New York State known for its natural beauty. Sullivan County has many forests, lakes, and rivers. This makes the area popular for outdoor activities.

The Old Route 17

The hamlet is situated along what is called the "old alignment" of Route 17. This means it was once the main path for this important road. Over time, new, faster highways are built, and the old roads become quieter. This old route now offers a more relaxed way to travel through the area.

• It connects Ferndale to nearby communities like Harris and Liberty.
• It shows how transportation routes can change over the years.

Life in Ferndale

Life in a hamlet like Ferndale is often peaceful and quiet. It's a place where people might know their neighbors well. The focus is usually on community and the natural surroundings.

Community and Nature

Being in Sullivan County, Ferndale is close to many natural attractions. This region is part of the Catskill Mountains foothills. This means residents and visitors can enjoy:

• Hiking trails in nearby forests.
• Fishing in local streams and lakes.
• Enjoying the peaceful rural setting.