Newark Valley, NY is a historic rural town in Tioga County with deep Revolutionary War roots and a vibrant community spirit today. Settled in the late 1700s as part of the Boston Purchase, it now blends scenic landscapes, strong schools, and active civic life with a proud heritage.

A Legacy Rooted in Early American History

Newark Valley traces its origins to 1791, when settlers arrived as part of the Boston Purchase Company, acquiring land from Massachusetts and negotiating with Native tribes for settlement rights. Originally called Brown’s Settlement, the town was incorporated as Westville in 1823, renamed Newark in 1824, and finally became Newark Valley in 1862 to avoid confusion with other towns.

Key historical landmarks include:

• Bement-Billings Homestead – site of the annual Apple Festival
• Belcher-Holden Farm, Blewer Farm, and West Newark School House – listed on the National Register of Historic Places
• Searlestown Cemetery – resting place of Revolutionary War veteran Richard Sarles and descendants

The town’s early economy included wheel factories powered by Spring Brook, and Main Street was once an Indian trail connecting the Susquehanna River to the Onondaga salt springs.

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Newark Valley Today

Located in northeastern Tioga County, Newark Valley is a rural community of ~4,000 residents with rolling hills, forested valleys, and the Owego Creek running through town. It’s bordered by Berkshire, Owego, Candor, and Maine (Broome County), and connected by NY Routes 38 and 38B.

Modern highlights:

• Newark Valley Central School District – largest local employer, serving multiple towns
• Senior housing complex – recently completed 24-unit development
• Trout Ponds Park – hub for recreation and community events
• Annual festivals – Apple Festival, Summerfest, Winter Festival, and Yard Sale Day

Residents enjoy:

• Affordable real estate
• Easy commutes to Binghamton and surrounding areas
• Access to healthcare, colleges, and shopping
• A strong sense of community and civic pride