Ellisburg

Ellisburg, New York

Located in southern Jefferson County along the eastern shore of Lake Ontario, the Town of Ellisburg is one of Northern New York’s oldest and most historically significant communities. Rich in agricultural heritage, Revolutionary-era settlement, War of 1812 history, and natural beauty, Ellisburg serves as the gateway to many of the region’s most popular waterfront destinations while remaining one of Jefferson County’s leading farming communities. The town was organized in 1803, making it one of the earliest towns established in what would become Jefferson County.

The Town of Ellisburg includes the Village of Ellisburg as well as the hamlets and communities of Belleville, Henderson-area neighborhoods, Mannsville, Woodville, and numerous rural farms and lakeside properties. While each community has its own unique identity, together they form one of the most picturesque regions in the South Jefferson area.

Agriculture has been the backbone of Ellisburg for more than two centuries. Dairy farms, crop production, maple syrup operations, and family-owned agricultural businesses continue to shape the landscape and local economy. Fertile farmland, open countryside, and generations of family farms have helped preserve the rural character that makes Ellisburg one of the North Country’s most scenic communities.

Ellisburg also occupies an important place in American history. During the War of 1812, the Battle of Big Sandy Creek took place within the town in May 1814. American forces successfully ambushed a British expedition attempting to capture military supplies bound for Sackets Harbor. The victory helped protect one of the United States’ most important naval bases on Lake Ontario and remains one of the defining military engagements fought in Jefferson County.

The town’s proximity to Lake Ontario makes it a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Residents and visitors enjoy easy access to Henderson Harbor, Southwick Beach State Park, Sandy Pond, public beaches, marinas, campgrounds, boating, kayaking, sailing, birdwatching, and some of the finest freshwater fishing in the Northeast. Salmon, trout, bass, and walleye anglers travel to the area throughout the year, while the region’s parks and shoreline attract families seeking summer recreation along the eastern shore of Lake Ontario.

Education and community remain central to life in Ellisburg. The Belleville Henderson Central School District serves much of the town, while volunteer fire departments, churches, civic organizations, youth programs, and annual community events continue to strengthen the close-knit spirit that defines this rural community.

The Watertown Post provides continuing coverage of Ellisburg, including local government, schools, agriculture, community events, business, outdoor recreation, tourism, public safety, economic development, and the issues affecting residents throughout the town. Whether reporting on Town Board meetings, local festivals, waterfront projects, school achievements, or life along the Lake Ontario shoreline, our mission is to keep readers informed about everything happening in Ellisburg and the surrounding communities.

Quick Facts

Official Name: Town of Ellisburg

County: Jefferson County, New York

Region: South Jefferson / Eastern Lake Ontario

Established: 1803

County Seat Distance: Approximately 20 miles south of Watertown

Major Highways:

New York State Route 193
New York State Route 289
U.S. Route 11 (nearby)
Interstate 81 (nearby)

School District:

Belleville Henderson Central School District

Primary Industries:

Agriculture
Tourism
Outdoor Recreation
Small Business
Hospitality

Major Attractions:

Battle of Big Sandy Creek Historic Site
Southwick Beach State Park
Sandy Pond
Lake Ontario
Henderson Harbor
Sandy Creek
Historic Village of Ellisburg

Latest Watertown Post Coverage

Browse below for the latest Watertown Post reporting on Ellisburg, including local government, schools, agriculture, community events, tourism, Lake Ontario, outdoor recreation, public safety, and everything happening throughout one of Jefferson County’s oldest and most historic communities.

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