Introduction to White Plains, New York
White Plains is located in Westchester County. The city is situated approximately four miles from the Hudson River and less than three miles from Long Island Sound. Manhattan is approximately 25 miles from White Plains. The number of people in White Plains significantly increases on a typical day due to the influx of workers, shoppers and visitors to the city. White Plains is recognized as the prominent business area in Westchester County. The city features a thriving shopping area which includes the upscale Westchester Mall and the popular Galleria and White Plains Mall. Numerous high technology companies and large corporations are located in the downtown area.
History
During the 17th century the area was utilized for farming by the Weckquaeskeck tribe. The traders in the area called it White Plains. The name was possibly given due to the numerous groves of white balsam in the region. It has also been suggested that the name was given due to the heavy mist that floated over the swamplands situated close to the Bronx River. The area was settled by Puritans from Connecticut in 1683. The town of White Plains was established in 1788. The Battle of White Plains between the Continentals and the British occurred on Chatterton Hill in 1776. The Continentals retreated from the battle, but after several more clashes with the Continentals, the British abandoned the area.
Historic Sites
The Jacob Purdy House was built before 1730 and served as the headquarters of General George Washington in 1778. The house was restored and transported to its new location in 1973. The house serves as the headquarters for the White Plains Historical Society. The White Plains Armory and the Percy Grainger Home are other historic sites of interest in White Plains.
Transportation
The city of White Plains is served by the Westchester County Airport. Commuter transportation to New York is also offered at two Metro-North Railroad stations. Passengers can utilize the Metro North Station and arrive in the center of Manhattan in about thirty-five minutes. Interstate Highway 287 runs through the city.
Higher Education
Pace University is located in White Plains. The Pace University School of Law is well known for its environmental law program. Pace University also features the Lubin School of Business which is well known for its MBA program. Other colleges in the area include Mercy College and the College of Westchester.
