Skaneateles

History

Skaneateles was part of the previous Central New York Military Tract and was established from Marcellus Town in the year 1830. The early turnpikes assisted in its development, and Skaneateles was renowned for its contribution in reform movements before the Civil War.

In 1843, the utopian Skaneateles community purchased and ran a huge farm and established small businesses; however, they failed in the end due to internal problems and external issues about its unconventional social practices. At times, it was termed “No God” locally, owing to the members’ atheistic views. The newspaper, Comunitist, was published by Skaneateles Community between the years 1844 and 1846 when they were disbanded. The Community Place, the buildings in existence, now function as bed and breakfasts.

There were a number of Skaneateles men who volunteered for the wretched campaign in order to free Canada and had been locked up in Tasmania by the British. The Quaker congregation was engaged in the eradication activity. The sites of the Underground Railroad were nationally written down in Skaneateles. It was believed by an early historian named Beauchamp that the town overshadowed Syracuse as an “anti-slavery settlement”, although the bigger Syracuse city close by was generally known as a focal point for Underground Railroad activity and abolition.

Area and Climate

Skaneateles came from an Iroquois term that means long lake. True to its name, the town has a 16-mile stretch considered to be among the cleanest lakes in the United States. There is always a feeling that you belong here, whether you are visiting for the season, enjoying a weekend retreat, putting up a business, or raising a family.

Skaneateles offers more. The town has ice skating rinks, parks that have playgrounds, basketball court, jogging trails, and tennis courts. The sidewalks are adorned with flowers and have park benches for everyone’s use. There is also a beautiful dock for people watching, walking and fishing. Skaneateles has a historical museum that is sure to fascinate you, as well as a comfy public library that has a walk-in gallery, showcasing the works of the late John Barrow.

The town receives 39” of rain each year, which is a bit higher than the US average of 37”. It receives 94” of snowfall yearly, which is higher than what an average US city receives every year (25”). Skaneateles has 160 sunny days, with July having the highest temperature of about 81 degrees and January having the lowest temperature of 17 degrees.

Real Estate and Cost of Living

The approximate value of a condo or home in 2000 was $163,800 and $355,423 in 2011.

2011’s mean cost for all home units was $412,243, $414,273 for detached homes, $485,620 for 2-unit structures, $264,393 for 3- to 4-unit structures, and $412,041 for 5-unit structures or more.

The town’s cost of living in March 2012 was 106.2, which is higher than the US average of 100.

Lifestyle and Things to Do

The town of Skaneateles has numerous parks for everyone’s enjoyment throughout the year. During summer, the Clift Park is sure to invigorate you with its public pool. Meanwhile, the Shotwell Memorial Park consists of monuments from the town who served in WWI and WWII, Spanish-American War, and Korean and Vietnam conflicts. Then there is the Austin Park that has playground equipment; tennis and basketball courts; track for blading, walking or biking; picnic tables; and baseball fields.

Off of West Genesee Street at 28 Hannum Street is a brilliantly rebuilt creamery that captures the town’s history. The Creamery houses the new boat museum and Skaneateles Historical Society and has rotating and permanent exhibits, as well as research facilities.

Skaneateles YMCA and Community Center is another point of interest in this town. It is home to recreation for everyone – from a game room to fitness center, swimming pools, and Olympic ice rink.

Floor Plans