The area's rich history includes Lenape Native American heritage and early European settlers, which continue to shape the town's identity.

First settled by Europeans around 1725, the jurisdiction was organized by Americans as a town in 1788 following the Revolutionary War.

The southern town line is the border of New Jersey (Sussex County).

15.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 6.2% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.

Prior to 1980, the town justices also served on the board, alongside two councilmen, and the supervisor.

Minisink is governed under New York town law, by which the board holds executive and legislative powers.

Town elections are held on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November in odd-numbered calendar years.

Those functions are now performed by a sole assessor appointed by the town board.