The Port of Oswego (Port Code:USOSW) is the main waterfront area of the City of Oswego in Oswego County, New York. Over the course of its history, the Port of Oswego has been the focus of military conflict and conquest, and a significant part in the History of American expansion and industrialism. Today the Port of Oswego is a shadow of its once-powerful self but still proves to be useful as trade continues in the central New York region.
Early explorers in the 17th century of Dutch, French, and English origin realized the value of an all-water route connecting the French settlements along the St. Lawrence River with the Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam. This would create a trade route that would stretch well over 500 miles (800 km) and give the controller of this route a significant advantage for turning profits in the New World. The Port of Oswego would become the focal point of this perceived route and bring the country that owns it almost infinite resources for constructing an empire in the New World.
The Port of Oswego Authority is a New York State public-benefit corporation that operates the port facilities and regulates development in the Oswego Port District. William Scriber acts as its Acting Executive Director and reports to a 6-member board of directors. In 2016, the authority had operating expenses of $4.84 million, an outstanding debt of $1.05 million, and a level of staffing of 117 people.