Rensselaerville township is composed of the hamlets of Rensselaerville, Medusa, Preston Hollow, Potter Hollow, Cooksburg and Smith's Corners in the southwest corner of Albany County, New York. Owned from 1629 by the Dutch patroons Van Rensselaer and part of the huge Manor of Rensselaerwyck, the area was so inaccessible that it was not settled until the late 1700's.

1800's, however, the forest resources began to dwindle and rail and water transportation for goods bypassed the hamlet. Industry moved closer to less expensive means of transportation and mechanized farming techniques proved more efficient on large, flat expanses of land. Further, as forests were cut, the land lost its ability to retain rainfall, causing a severe drop in the watershed. One by one, the water-dependent mills went out of business. As others left our rocky hills for better opportunities in the newly-opened west, a few hardy farmers stayed on. Today, Rensselaerville is mostly residential, with an interesting blend of retirees, young professionals, and descendants of early settlers. Much stunning 18th century architecture remains, tastefully adapted for contemporary use, and agriculture remains essential to the character of the town. Explore the rest of Rensselaerville.com to discover other ways in which our town combines the best of the 19th and soon-to-be 21st centuries!