Carthage was built upon the banks of the swiftly moving Black River, a primary source of power for the many mills in this region, as well as a scenic and wild whitewater-rafting river. The original name of the village was Long Falls, later changed to Carthage after the African city. The early economy was based around papermaking and lumber industries. On October 20, 1884, a sawdust fire began at the Eaton Sash and Blind Factory in West Carthage. It leapt over the river and raged through Carthage proper, burning most of the town to the ground. The hardy and industrious residents rebuilt Carthage, which became known as "The Town That Would Not Die". The Great Carthage Fire has never been forgotten.

Census 2000 recorded the population of Carthage at 3,721. The village is part of the larger town of Wilna, NY, population 6,235. Wilna was established in 1813. A portion of the Fort Drum military base lies within Wilna's boundaries, providing Carthage with strong retail trade and a robust economy. Thirty-seven percent of the residents are employed in educational, health and social service industries. The Carthage Area Hospital is an outstanding facility, employing and providing health care for the local workforce.

Carthage is considered part of the Watertown Metropolitan Area. The bustling city of Watertown serves as the county seat, and is the commercial and cultural hub for the mostly rural Jefferson County. Only twenty-two miles apart, Carthage residents enjoy all the amenities that the city of 26,000 offers. The Jefferson Community College provides excellent higher education for the Watertown region. The larger cities of Syracuse and Utica lie within an hour's easy interstate drive.

Carthage, New York is a strong community; Carthage residents are determined to create an outstanding home. They enjoy the safety and serenity of a small village surrounded by Jefferson County's scenic beauty, and the prosperity and security of being part of the solid Watertown economic base.