Rodman

Rodman, New York

Located on the western edge of the Tug Hill Plateau in southern Jefferson County, Rodman is a quiet rural town known for its rolling farmland, forests, winding streams, and strong agricultural heritage. Situated between Watertown and Lowville along New York State Route 177, Rodman offers residents the peace and beauty of country living while remaining within easy driving distance of the region’s larger communities. Established in 1804, Rodman has remained one of Jefferson County’s most rural towns, where generations of families have built lives rooted in farming, forestry, small business, and community service.

Named after New York State public official Daniel Rodman, the town was originally organized as “Harrison” before its name was changed to avoid confusion with other communities. Settlement began around 1801, and the area quickly developed through agriculture, sawmills, and small family businesses. Today, Rodman continues to preserve much of its historic rural character while serving as home to residents who value open spaces, quiet neighborhoods, and a close connection to the land.

The landscape of Rodman is shaped by Sandy Creek and its tributaries, which flow through the town on their way to Lake Ontario. The surrounding hills, forests, and valleys provide outstanding opportunities for fishing, hunting, hiking, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor recreation. During the winter months, Rodman becomes part of the Tug Hill snowbelt, an area nationally recognized for receiving some of the heaviest snowfall east of the Rocky Mountains, attracting snowmobilers and winter outdoor enthusiasts from across the Northeast.

Agriculture continues to play an important role in the local economy. Dairy farms, crop production, maple syrup operations, and family-owned agricultural businesses help preserve the rural landscape while supporting Jefferson County’s farming tradition. Residents also benefit from the town’s convenient location near Adams, Watertown, and Lowville, making it possible to enjoy country living while accessing employment, shopping, healthcare, and other services nearby.

Students in Rodman are served primarily by the South Jefferson Central School District, with school activities, athletics, and community events bringing together families throughout the South Jefferson region. Volunteer fire departments, churches, civic organizations, and local events continue to strengthen the close-knit community spirit that has defined Rodman for more than two centuries.

The Watertown Post provides continuing coverage of Rodman, including local government, schools, agriculture, community events, public safety, business, outdoor recreation, weather, and the issues affecting residents throughout this scenic rural community. Whether reporting on Town Board meetings, local development, school achievements, or life on the Tug Hill, our mission is to keep readers informed about everything happening in Rodman and the surrounding area.

Quick Facts

Official Name: Town of Rodman

County: Jefferson County, New York

Region: South Jefferson / Tug Hill

Established: 1804

Population: Approximately 1,176 residents (2020 Census for the town was approximately 1,200)

County Seat Distance: Approximately 10 miles south of Watertown

Major Highway:

New York State Route 177

School District:

South Jefferson Central School District

Primary Industries:

Agriculture
Forestry
Small Business
Outdoor Recreation

Major Natural Features:

Sandy Creek
Tug Hill Plateau
Forests and Farmland

Popular Activities:

Hunting
Fishing
Snowmobiling
Hiking
Wildlife Viewing
Farming
Maple Syrup Production

Latest Watertown Post Coverage

Browse below for the latest Watertown Post reporting on Rodman, including local government, agriculture, schools, community events, outdoor recreation, public safety, weather, and everything happening throughout this historic rural town in southern Jefferson County.

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