Town of North Salem   Distance to NYC: 50 miles Area: 42 square miles   This lovely corner of the County covers 22 square miles and is composed of Salem Center, Purdys, Croton Falls and North Salem. There is easy access to I-684 and 1-84 and two stations on Metro North at Purdys and Croton Falls. Established as a part of Van Cortlandt Manor in 1697, the town has continued to maintain its rural feeling. Its rolling hills, meadows, farms and orchards are conducive to enjoying nature. It is one of the last "wide open spaces" in Westchester. North Salem is served by Pequenakonck Elementary School (K-S), North Salem Middle School (6-8) and North Salem High School (9-12) - all of which have been designated as Schools of Excellence by the Federal government. In addition are St. Joseph's School in Croton Falls and Westchester Exceptional Children's School in Purdys. There are also two nursery schools: North Salem Nursery School and Little People's Learning Center.   Educational Facilities North Salem is served by Pequenakonck Elementary School (K-S),North Salem Middle School (6-8) and North Salem High School (9-12) - all of which have been designated as Schools of Excellence by the Federal government. In addition are St. Joseph's School in Croton Falls and Westchester Exceptional Children's School in Purdys. There are also two nursery schools: North Salem Nursery School and Little People's Learning Center.   Recreational Facilities The Hammond Museum with Oriental Stroll Gardens is situated on a beautiful hilltop with wonderful views. The Museum hosts a series of exhibits Townand events such as the Harvest Moon Festival, the Asian Festival and the Blessing of the Animals an area favorite. In addition are the 1000 acre Mountain Lakes Camp; the Open Land Foundation for hiking and nature studies; Joe Bohdrum Park for picnics, sports and special events. Lakeside Field Club offers swimming and tennis to members, while the Salem Golf Club and Bloomerside feature golf for members. The North Salem Vineyard, Westchester's only winery, is worth a visit. The North Salem Library sponsors monthly educational programs and Drama Group plays. "Food for Thought" dinners, the annual quilt raffle and Family Barbeque are also very popular. For the Equestrian, Old Salem Farm is a nationally known venue for shows and competitions. The Goldens Bridge Hunt Club, a fully accredited member of the American Fox Hounds Association, is one of the oldest fox hunting clubs in the country, founded in North Salem over 60 years ago. There is also a variety of smaller horse farms and facilities. The North Salem Riding Trails Association offers miles of beautiful trail riding.   Houses of Worship Croton Falls Baptist Church, Croton Falls Presbyterian Church,Purdy’s United Methodist Church,Saint James Episcopal Church, Saint John’s Chapel, North Salem and Saint Joseph’s Church, Croton Falls.