Dutchess County
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Dutchess County History
The Dutch claims based on Hudson’s explorations made the entire river basin and coastal areas theirs, but more than half a century elapsed before any Dutch arrived here. The practices of the Dutch West India Company may have contributed to this. A charter of “Privileges and Exemptions” enacted in 1629 gave to the patrons who directed the Company title in perpetuity to enormous land holdings in the valley and virtually made their tenants feudal vassals, discouraging rather than encouraging colonization. Eager to make money, the company directors paid the Native Americans for the land but found few Dutchmen interested in the rigors of frontier life.
Facts
- Population: 280,150
- Year Organized: 1683
- Area: 802 Square Miles
More Facts
Census Information
Visit the U.S. Census Website for an array of demographic information.
U.S. Census information
Dutchess County Website
Your link for the official Dutchess County Website.
www.co.dutchess.ny.us