Pioneers settled Potsdam around 1803. It was the first town along the Raquette River, which offers some of the finest fishing in New York. Wonderful Victorian architecture and buildings constructed from the native sandstone still remain. The first one-room schoolhouse in the county was built here in 1810, and education continues to be a high priority for the town of Potsdam. In 1816, the St. Lawrence Academy was built, which today is the State University of New York. The famous Crane School of Music is part of the University. The Clarkson University was founded here in 1896. An exemplary leader in modern education, Clarkson became the first college in the states to insist that each student be equipped with their own personal computer. Potsdam's public school districts consistently rank high in both state and national testing.

While education has remained the focal point of Potsdam, New York, papermaking is a leading industry too. Potsdam earns its reputation as the "Car Capitol of the North Country" with eight new-car dealerships and a number of used-car lots. The Potsdam Office of Planning and Development welcomes new businesses. With a trade area that is home to more than 40,000 people, which includes the exuberant spending habits of college youth, Potsdam considers itself 'retail ready'. Over 65% of the residents here have earned a college degree, making a well educated and quality labor force.

The population of Potsdam numbers 15,957 (Census 2000 data). Within the town is the village of Potsdam, where the universities are located, with a population of 9,425. Residents enjoy the wide diversity of outdoor activities found in St. Lawrence County. Canoeing, whitewater kayaking along the Raquette River, which includes a waterfall, and scuba diving are some of the water sports. Fishing and hunting opportunities delight gamesmen throughout the county. A drive through the peaceful rural countryside will lead to a number of farms offering agri-tours, where visitors can find everything from ostriches to buffalo.

Potsdam celebrates its unique blend of cultures in the World in Potsdam Diversity Festival, cosponsored by the two universities. This delightful event honors culture from around the world, a reflection of the large ethnic mix that makes up the community. In most academic years, students from more than forty countries attend Potsdam schools, coming to a largely rural region. This festival gives local permanent residents an opportunity to show their own national heritage and customs, as well as to explore those of their ever-changing student population. The concept of the Diversity Festival is refreshing in this time of global tension.

Potsdam, New York is a one-of-a-kind community. A forerunner in education and visionary in spirit, surrounded by natural splendor and tranquil beauty, Potsdam emerges as a place to thrive.