Rockland County, located in the state of New York, has a rich history of immigrants making it their home. From the early days of European settlement, to the waves of immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, Rockland County has been a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities.
Early European Settlement
The first European settlers in Rockland County were Dutch. They established the settlement of New Amsterdam, which later became New York City, in the early 17th century. Dutch settlers also established the town of Tappan in present-day Rockland County. The town was a hub of trade and commerce during the colonial period.
Irish Immigrants
In the mid-19th century, a wave of Irish immigrants came to Rockland County. They were attracted by the growing industrialization of the area, as well as the availability of jobs in the railroad and construction industries. Many Irish immigrants settled in the town of Haverstraw, which became known as “Little Dublin.”
Italian Immigrants
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a large wave of Italian immigrants came to Rockland County. They were primarily from the southern regions of Italy and were attracted by the growing granite industry in the area. Many Italian immigrants settled in the town of Stony Point, which became known as “Little Italy.”
Jewish Immigrants
During the early 20th century, a wave of Jewish immigrants came to Rockland County. They were primarily from Eastern Europe and were attracted by the growing textile industry in the area. Many Jewish immigrants settled in the town of Spring Valley, which became known as a center of Jewish life in the area.
Latino Immigrants
In the latter half of the 20th century, a wave of Latino immigrants came to Rockland County. They were primarily from Puerto Rico, the Dominican Republic, and Mexico and were attracted by the growing service and construction industries in the area. Many Latino immigrants settled in the town of Nyack and the village of Haverstraw.
Conclusion
Rockland County has a rich history of immigrants making it their home. From the early settlers to the waves of immigrants in the 19th and 20th centuries, Rockland County has been a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities. Today, the county continues to welcome immigrants from all over the world, adding to the diverse fabric of the community.
