Historic Images
Public Square
See the heart of Watertown through images of its buildings, streets, and people.
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Where the
River Runs
One river. One city. Two centuries of history. The extraordinary story of Watertown, New York.
Discover the BookExplore the History
Our History, Our River
A city born along the Black River.
From a small riverside settlement to a thriving Northern New York city, Watertown’s story has always been shaped by the river and the people who called its banks home.
Discover the industries, entrepreneurs, neighborhoods, and landmarks that shaped a community. Follow the history in the book and continue exploring here through archival imagery and new stories.
Explore Watertown's History
Explore the Archives
Stories behind familiar places.
The River Journal
Industry & Innovation
Stories about the enterprises and inventions that helped shape the North Country.
Read the journal →
People & Places
Made in Watertown
Remembering the people, places, and products that connected Watertown to a wider world.
Explore the timeline →The Book
History you can hold.
Written by Watertown native Melody J. Laughlin, Where the River Runs preserves the city's heritage in a richly illustrated volume for readers, families, and future generations.
Available in hardcover, paperback, and Kindle editions through Amazon.
Buy on Amazon ↗Our History. Our Community. Our River.
History belongs to all of us.
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Meet the Author
For the place that stays with us.
Born in Watertown, Melody J. Laughlin has long believed that the stories of a community deserve to be preserved. Her writing celebrates the lives, places, and shared memories that make a hometown unforgettable.
Meet Melody