Deferiet

Olympic Byway, State Rt. 3A, in Jefferson County

Historic Deferiet near Watertown on the Black River.

Like other communities along the Black River, Deferiet is a place to enjoy the river's scenic beauty. This village, like neighboring communities, developed around the river's bountiful natural resources of wood and water. You can see remnant of a large paper-producing mill, one of several dozen that thrived in Northern New York during the 20th century.

At the end of Riverside Drive in Deferiet outdoor enthusiasts, sportsmen and fishermen/women are invited to enjoy the scenic beauty of the landscape along the river and/or drop a line to fish for Walleye, Chain Pickerel, Rock Bass, Small Mouth Bass, Northern Pike and/or Yellow Perch.

You may be intrigued by a small wooden structure housing the Madonna, located on the south side of Rt. 3 between Deferiet and Herrings. This roadside shrine was constructed in 1921 to provide travelers an opportunity to pause a moment and pray for the safety of their journey.

The 170-mile Olympic Scenic Byway route starts near Lake Champlain at the village of Keeseville in the east, moves through the heart of the Adirondack Mountains, and ends near Lake Ontario at Sackets Harbor in the west. As you travel this byway, you’ll experience some of New York State’s most historic and scenic waterways. In the towns, villages, and hamlets along the way, learn about the determination of early settlers to make the most of the natural resources in this often-challenging environment.

Whether you're an armchair sports fan, or have dreams of Olympic-style challenges, you'll find a wide variety of recreation opportunities in every season. Take time to enjoy local events and get to know the women and men who live, work, and take great pride in calling the distinctive Olympic Scenic Byway communities home.

• Jefferson County, 1000 Islands Area Information