Valatie, named 'Pachaquak' was originally settled by the Algonquian Mohicans. The village, 'Vaaltje' was founded circa 1665 by the Dutch...
Valatie, known for its rich history, was originally named "Pachaquak", which means "cleared meadow", by the earliest settlers—Algonquian Mohicans—who inhabited the banks of its two waterways, now known as Valatie Kill and Kinderhook Creek.
The initial European settlers in this area were the Dutch, who referred to it as "Vaaltje", meaning "little falls". Over time, this name evolved into the anglicized "Valatie" that we recognize today.
As part of New York's original New Netherland, Valatie Village served as the center of commerce for Northern Columbia County during the 19th century. The village officially incorporated in 1856.