The Town of Blooming Grove was incorporated on March 23, 1799. There are several historic sites in the Town; one being America's oldest winery, Brotherhood, which is located in the Village of Washingtonville.The Town of Blooming Grove encompasses about 37 miles and has a population, according to the 1990 census of 16,673. The Town is located in the south-eastern portion of Orange County. The Town includes one village, Washingtonville, and several populated areas such as Salisbury Mills, Craigville, Merriewold, Worley Heights, Orchard Lake and Mountain Lodge Park. The Town is primarily residential and agricultural in character with some commercial and industrial enterprises. Commercial activity is centered in Washingtonville, with several smaller malls throughout the Town. Residential development consists of single-family homes, senior housing, condominiums, townhouses and apartment complexes. In addition to employment opportunities in the Town, many residents commute to New York City, as well as surrounding cities and towns in the County. Commuter bus service and the Metro North Railroad are available to travel to New York City. Education for most of the Town of Blooming Grove is provided by Washingtonville Central School District. A small part of the southern end of the Town is included in the Monroe Woodbury School District.