Nestled on the east bank of the scenic Hudson River, Poughkeepsie is home to over 45,000 people.  Vassar College, Marist College and Dutchess Community College are all located within the town.  Along with these prestigious institutes of higher learning, we are also proud to have Locust Grove, the former home of Samuel Morse, as well as many other buildings and sites of similar historical significance.

"Poughkeepsie" derives its name from a spring where Indians once gathered to weave lodges from the abundant cattail reeds.  These native Americans called their meeting place "Uppuqui" (oo-poo-kee) meaning "lodge-covered", plus "ipis" meaning "little water", plus "ing" meaning "place", all of which translated to "the reed-covered lodge by the little water place", or "Uppuqui-ipis-ing".  This later evolved into "Apokeepsing", then into "Poughkeepsing" and, finally, "Poughkeepsie".

Poughkeepsie is a town with "something for everyone", rich in culture and steeped in history.  Our twenty-two parks offer a diverse blend of recreational activities for all ages, and fine dining experiences abound.

Pat Myers
Supervisor, Town of Poughkeepsie