In 1895, New York City's thirst for clean water sparked a move that a century later would be celebrated as a classic study in community spirit.

Faced with a critical water shortage, New York City chose to build a massive dam across the Croton River, a decision which threatened the village of Katonah. Rather than accept the flooding of their beloved hamlet, Katonah's enterprising villagers hoisted their houses atop huge logs, and used the strength of draft horses to pull their community to high ground, 55 buildings in all.

New Katonah became one of New York's first planned communities, with acclaimed landscape artists G.S. and B.S. Olmstead turning residents' visions into reality -- a thriving commercial district, backed up to exquisite Victorian neighborhoods facing village greens, all centered around a bustling train depot.

While the population has grown from 300 then to over 5,000 now, Katonah retains its old-fashioned flavor. After just an hour and ten minute train ride from New York City, visitors of all ages are instantly captivated as they step from the Station platform right into this modern-day Currier & Ives setting.

At the heart of downtown Katonah's commercial district is Charles Department Store, which celebrates its 79th anniversary this fall. One of the original 55 buildings moved from Old Katonah, this modern-day general store, known simply as 'Charles,' is the only family-owned specialty department store left in suburban Westchester County. Local residents have come to count on Charles for everything from light bulbs to hammocks, and the best in family clothes and shoes.

Katonah is known for independently-owned retail shops, rather than the chain stores that have taken over many neighboring towns. Adding character to the commercial district along with Charles are many distinctive stores, such as Kellogg's and Lawrence Hardware, Ruby Sue, Fine Lines Stationery, and Try&Buy Toys.

A stroll down Katonah Avenue also offers an irresistible line-up of unique galleries, including Candace Perich Gallery, a fine arts gallery showing some of the world's most acclaimed photographers; The Eclectic Collector, a craft store teeming with one-of-a-kind sculptures, folk art and painted furniture, and Offerings, an American contemporary crafts gallery.

For those whose appetites are stimulated by shopping, Katonah offers numerous great choices. The Blue Dolphin is a former diner that now offers fresh Italian cuisine, as does Peppino's, built in the old Katonah railroad station. Katonah Grill features hearty fare, while Willy Nick's delights patrons with a changing menu of progressive American specialties.

Just east of the village, Katonah's cultural attractions draw visitors from near and far. The Katonah Museum of Art features rotating collections of fascinating exhibitions in its two galleries, a tranquil sculpture garden and an interactive learning center for children. The John Jay Homestead State Historic Site brings American political and social history to life with guided tours through the Federal-style retirement residence of the first Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Katonah also boasts the internationally renowned Caramoor Center for Music and Art, host to metropolitan New York's largest annual outdoor summer music festival that features world-class jazz and classical musicians on two outdoor stages. Visitors to Caramoor can also tour the Mediterranean-style house museum, furnished with a priceless art collection and surrounded by lush gardens.

Located just forty miles north of New York City at the confluence of the Saw Mill River Parkway and I-684, Katonah is easily accessible by car and parking is plentiful. MTA Metro-North trains run hourly from Grand Central Terminal, bringing both commuters and tourists to this spirited and charming community.

For further information, contact the Katonah Chamber of Commerce at (914) 232-2668.