by Poestenkill Historical Society (Author), Linda Sagendorf (With)
Poestenkill, formed from the northern half of the township of Sand Lake, was incorporated in 1848 and is the youngest town in Rensselaer County. The name Poestenkill comes from the Dutch and means "foaming creek." The Poestenkill Creek, which runs westerly and empties into the Hudson River, was the center of water-powered industry in the town's early years. When early settlers began arriving and developing the land, Poestenkill was divided into the four hamlets: Poestenkill, East Poestenkill, Ives Corners, and Barberville. Through vintage photographs, Poestenkill provides a glimpse of the town's rich history and draws generations eager to experience the beauty of Poestenkill and the charm of its people.