Town of Washington   Distance to NYC: 62 miles Area: 64 square miles   The Town of Washington was established in 1788. It is the largest township in Dutchess County with over 61 square miles. It was named to honor General George Washington. There is a local legend that pictures his Revolutionary troops encamped under a huge cottonwood tree near Washington Hollow during the war. Before the end of the 19th century, history records peaceful New England Quakers organizing meetings and opening schools. In the 19th century town streams supplied the power for local mills. Its rolling hills and commanding beautiful vistas of the Hudson Valley attracted the wealthy and prominent to build estates and encouraged tourism. With fertile soils and an important role in the breeding of horses and Aberdeen Angus cattle, the area became an agricultural center and home to both Cornell Cooperative Extension/Farm and Home Center and the Mary Flager Cary Arboretum. The Village of Millbrook, a 19th century railroad center, is now the hub of local government, business and culture. The Village offers quaint store fronts, fine dining and most desired amenities. The serenity, open spaces, charming village and hamlets have made the Town of Washington very desirable and its only 90 minutes from Manhattan.   Educational Facilities The following are private/parochial schools in the Millbrook area: Cardinal Hayes for Special Children, Dutchess Day School,Millbrook School and St. Joseph’s Elementary. The Millbrook Central School and the Webatuck Central School Systems serve the town. The Trevor Zoo at the Millbrook School is a learning opportunity for adults and children. The zoo includes a new environmental education center.   Recreational Facilities The countryside has many horse farms offering private riding lessons and miles of trails. The private Millbrook Country Club has 18 holes of superb golf, tennis and a club house for dining.   Three popular wineries make the area a haven for wine lovers. They are Clinton Vineyards, Millbrook Vineyards and Cascade Mountain Vineyards. The wineries are open to the public and host many events. There are square dances, harvest parties and art receptions.   The Town Recreation Park has a small lake with a beach, picnic tables and a playground.   Houses of Worship Include Episcopal, Catholic, and Quaker Reformed. There is easy access to all denominations.