Town of Ossining   Distance to NYC: 30 miles Area: 5.6 square miles   Ossining is situated about 30 miles from mid-Manhattan nestled on the banks of the Hudson River. The population of the town is 24,000. The Town of Ossining is built on terraced hills overlooking the Hudson River, with views of Hook Mountain, High Tor, and on a clear day, the towers of Manhattan. In 1685 Frederick Philipse bought the land from the Sint Sinck Indians, in 1813 the Village of Sing Sing was incorporated, and in 1846 on the advice of an eminent Indian authority the town was christened Ossining. Due to the history of the villages, a number of Ossining structures are on the National Register of Historic Places.   Ossining residents can conveniently reach New York City via a 44 minute express commute on Metro North to Grand Central or by major highways. Westchester County also has an extensive bus system which enables commuters to use public transportation to go anywhere in the county. Ferry service is available to and from Haverstraw.   Educational Facilities In addition to Ossining's public schools, there are three parochial schools in the area that include kindergarten through eighth grade. The Ossining High School, which was on the list of the country's top 250 best schools in the year 2000, offers students a variety of enrichment opportunities, including two high school programs which offer college level courses.   Recreational Facilities Ossining has an extensive recreational program for all age groups, including a summer day camp for local children. The Ossining Village Fair is held each year, bringing everyone together for a day of fun and food. There is also a seasonal weekend Farmers’ Market. Cedar Lane Park, one of many in the area, features 29 acres of walking trails, an athletic field and swimming pool. The Teatown Reservation,a 780-acre preserve and nature center, offers over 14 miles of hiking trails and a 33-acre lake. There are three boat clubs, Shattamuc, Ossining Boat Club and Canoe Club, Inc.   Houses of Worship Include Calvary Baptist Church, Scarborough Presbyterian Church, St. Matthew’s Methodist Church, Ethical Society of Northern Westchester, Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints,St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church,St. Augustine’s Roman Catholic Church, Community Bible Church of Westchester,St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on the Hill and Congregation Sons of Israel.