Crawford, New York 2025

Crawford is a town in Orange County, New York, United States. As of the 2020 census, the population was 11,824. The town was named after a farm that was owned by a man named Crawford. It is located in the northern part of Orange County and consists of three Hamlets: Pine Bush, Bullville, and Circleville.

The region was first settled in 1724 by Irish and Scottish immigrants, and by the 1800s, the town had grown significantly. Local agriculture thrived, with resources like the Wallkill Valley Railroad and New York and Erie Railroad connecting it to New York City. During the prohibition era, the town had several prominent bootleggers, including Legs Diamond, who locally infamous for manufacturing and distributing illegal alcohol. It is also claimed that Al Capone often visited the area, staying on his way to and from New York City, passing through nearby Canal Street in Pine Bush.

A local newspaper, the Pine Bush Time and Times Herald Record, has been serving the town since 1971. Pine Bush Central School District serves the entire town, with hamlets having their schools, including Circleville Elementary, Pine Bush Elementary, and Park Avenue Elementary. The town also celebrates several special events, such as the Fallsburg Police Department'th annual Summer Festival in August, Bullville Community Day in September, and various other events hosted by the Wallkill Valley Rail Trail Association.

Crawford offers diverse experiences, from local history to outdoor recreation, such as hiking, sports, and nature reserves. The town is proud of its Route 302, known as the quickest route between New York City and Monticello, a popular casino and resort. In 2003, a state-approved casino was planned for the town, but it ultimately failed due to public opposition.

Crawford, NY, has a population of 11,824 as per 2020 census. The population density is 367 people per square mile (141/km2). There are 4,355 housing units at an average density of 152 per square mile (59/km2). The racial makeup was 88.4% White, 3.1% African American, 0.4% Native American or Alaska Native, 1.4% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 5.4% from other races, and 2.6% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 14.9% of the population.

The median age in the town was 41.7 years, with 25.1% under the age of 18, 8.9% from 18 to 24,25.7% from 25 to 44, 31.2% from 45 to 64, and 18.1% who were 65 years of age or older. The median household income was $67,313, and the median family income was $77,614. Males had a median income of $56,455 versus $41,402 for females. The per capita income for the town was $32,388.

Crawford hamlets are home to various establishments that reflect its diverse population. Some popular ones include Theo's Pizza & Restaurant in Pine Bush, known for its brick oven pizza and classic Italian-American fare. The town also has several local watering holes and delis such as Pine Bush Deli & Grocery, Circleville Deli & Pizza, and Carson's Pub & Grill. Bullville is home to Billy Joe's Ribworks BBQ, which has won several awards for its barbecue. Circleville has a Walmart Supercenter, home to a Subway restaurant and full grocery store.

Crawford's history dates back to 1724 when it was first settled by Irish and Scottish immigrants. It is home to several historic sites, such as the John V. V. Valk House added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2005, and the Pine Bush Historic District, added to the Register in 1987. The town remains primarily farmland, though agriculture has declined.

In summary, Crawford, New York, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and recreation. From its historic sites and museums to its hiking trails, parks, and local attractions, visitors can have a memorable experience.