Chappaqua is a hamlet located in the town of New Castle, in Westchester County, New York, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population is 1,410.
Chappaqua is known for its scenic beauty, historic architecture, and vibrant community. The hamlet is situated in a wooded valley, with many homes nestled among the trees. Chappaqua's central business district is a few blocks long and features a post office, a bank, a couple of delis, a pizza restaurant, and several small shops.
Chappaqua has a rich cultural scene, with various art galleries, theaters, and music venues. They include the Chappaqua Orchestra, a community orchestra that performs throughout the year. The Chappaqua Summer Scholarship Program, a free summer camp for local children, is held at the bottom of King Street.
One of the most famous landmarks in Chappaqua is the Horace Greeley House, a historic house museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Horace Greeley, a 19th-century newspaper editor and political leader who was born and raised in the town. The house, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, was Greeley's home from 1864 until his death in 1872 and is now a museum showcasing his life and work.
The bell tower monument at the top of King Street, erected in 1913 to commemorate Horace Greeley's centenary, is another notable landmark. On the northern end of town is the 'Saw Mill River Parkway, along whose west bound lane stands the popular 'Horace Greeley' sign. During the holidays, residents come together to decorate the sign with festive lights.
The Rotary is a grass island located in the middle of King Street, the town's primary street. The Rotary is surrounded by towering oak trees, planted when the Greeleys were alive. Walking distance from the Rotary is the Robert E. Bell Middle School which serves grades 5-8.
Historically, Chappaqua had a large hamlet in rural central Westchester, located on the east side of the county. However, much of the hamlet is now in the town of New Castle.
Chappaqua has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. It experiences hot, humid summers and cold winters. The hamlet has racial diversity, with 86.3% of the population identifying as white, 8.3% Asians, 2.12% black or African American, 0.077% Native American or Alaskan Native, 0.18% some other race, and 1.29% two or more races. Among the population, 2.36% were Hispanics or Latinos of any race.
Notable current and former residents of Chappaq include:
1. Bill and Hillary Clinton.
2. Georgios Papanikolaou, a famous surgeon at New York Hospital.
3. Horace Greeley, an American politician.
4. Jay-Z, a billionaire.
In the 20th century, it witnessed the growth of suburbia. It became home to influential politicians and celebrities and was also the site of several notable events.