It's been more than a century since the city of Watertown was incorporated. When pioneers first stumbled across the area back in the 1800's, who would have known it would grow into a North Country powerhouse?

"It's a credit to our founding fathers and mothers and all those who dedicated themselves to the foundation of the city. And all the Watertownies that followed in their footsteps to build what we have today," says Joseph Butler. 

From its humble beginnings to today, the city holds a lot of historical significance. Residents fought for their country in World War 2, the Vietnam War and even the Civil War.

It grew into an industrial center through its first 100 years. Watertown is also home to the oldest indoor mall in America - the Paddock Arcade.

"You could feel the history; it was just reaching out and grabbing you. And I still have that feeling when I walk through downtown. There's a lot of history and there's a lot of memories," says Richard Finn.

For many city leaders this 150th anniversary is a milestone and stepping stone for what's to come next.

"The feasibility connectivity study for the black river, so that’s an exciting challenges something that we talked about for years. So we're starting to see that come into fruition," said Butler.