Chichester, New York: A Picturesque Hamlet in the Catskill Mountains

Nestled in the heart of the Catskill Mountains, the hamlet of Chichester, New York, offers a serene and picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Formerly known as Chichesterville, this northernmost community in the town of Shandaken is a true gem, with a rich history and stunning natural surroundings.

The hamlet was founded in 1863 by brothers Frank and Lemuel Chichester, after whom the town is named. The Chichester brothers were the sons of Samuel Chichester, the contractor who built the renowned Catskill Mountain House. They were drawn to the area's natural beauty and sought to establish a furniture factory, which quickly became the center of the community.

Chichester's history is intertwined with the rise and fall of the furniture industry. As the factory grew, so did the hamlet, with workers and their families moving in to the company-owned homes and buildings. The town even had its own general store, post office, and schoolhouse, all of which were supported by the factory.

Today, Chichester's picturesque setting remains a major draw for visitors. Nestled in a mountainous valley, the hamlet is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Catskill Park. Two major creeks, the Stony Clove Creek and Warner's Creek (also known as Ox Clove), flow through the town, adding to its serene and tranquil atmosphere.

While the furniture factory is long gone, Chichester has retained its charming character and small-town feel. The hamlet is now in the hands of private owners, with the former factory buildings and homes serving as private residences and businesses.

For those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Chichester offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty of the Catskill Mountains. Whether you're looking to hike, explore the local history, or simply enjoy the serenity of the countryside, this hamlet is sure to captivate and delight.

When it comes to internet services, Chichester residents have access to a variety of options. The hamlet is served by Charter Communications Inc., which offers cable modem internet with download speeds up to 1,000 Mbps and upload speeds up to 35 Mbps. Additionally, satellite internet providers like HughesNet and Viasat are available, offering download speeds up to 50 Mbps and 35 Mbps, respectively, and upload speeds up to 5 Mbps and 3 Mbps.

With its rich history, stunning natural surroundings, and reliable internet connectivity, Chichester, New York, is a truly unique and captivating destination in the heart of the Catskill Mountains.