In the mid-1800's the railroad reached Cold Spring in the west and the Town of Southeast near the Connecticut border, and population centers grew. In 1863 Gail Borden erected a factory in Brewster for the daily processing and canning of 80,000 quarts of milk produced by local cows on Putnam's 20,000 acres of farmland. New York City was acquiring land for the construction of reservoirs, and by the early 1900's some of the local farms were replaced by beautiful lakes which now provide some of the best trout and bass fishing in the northeast. Putnam became a popular spot for wealthy vacationers from the city who flocked to its lakeside resort communities, and tourism thrived as an important industry. Today, Putnam retains the charm and rural beauty of its past.
Modern transportation provides easy access for relaxing day trips and outdoor recreation.