Redfield

The town of Redfield was formed on March 14, 1800; however the area was surveyed and settled before 1795. Originally planned to be two townships, with the north portion independent as Greenborough from 1843 to 1848, Redfield is by acreage the largest township in Oswego County. The town was located midway on the Military Road, built following the War of 1812 between Sackets Harbor and Rome. In the subsequent years of peace, the road was heavily traveled by settlers coming into the area.

Lumbering has been an important part of Redfield’s economy since its beginning. The lands covered since 1913 by the Salmon River Reservoir were among the most productive farmlands in northern Oswego County. Farms in other parts of town relied on dairying and sheep to be productive. Today, large reforested areas now cover many of the old farms, and winter recreation has become an industry in Redfield, the snowiest of the townships.

The town of Redfield was formed on March 14, 1800; however the area was surveyed and settled before 1795. Originally planned to be two townships, with the north portion independent as Greenborough from 1843 to 1848, Redfield is by acreage the largest township in Oswego County. The town was located midway on the Military Road, built following the War of 1812 between Sackets Harbor and Rome.In the subsequent years of peace, the road was heavily traveled by settlers coming into the area.

Lumbering has been an important part of Redfield’s economy since its beginning. The lands covered since 1913 by the Salmon River Reservoir were among the most productive farmlands in northern Oswego County.Farms in other parts of town relied on dairying and sheep to be productive. Today, large reforested areas now cover many of the old farms, and winter recreation has become an industry in Redfield, the snowiest of the townships.

Town Historian
Liz Grant
722 County Route 47
Redfield, NY 13437