[6] Attempts were made to settle Webb circa 1800 and 1811, but both efforts failed due to extreme climate, harsh weather and poor land for farming.

The first permanent settlers, Otis Arnold and family, arrived in approximately 1837 and began their try at the land.

The Arnolds ultimately succeeded in cultivating and selling hay feed, vegetables, milk and fruit.

The Arnolds opened their house as a hotel of sorts, and the area became known for its beautiful rivers, lakes and mountains.

When Dr. William Seward Webb's Mohawk and Malone Railway reached the town in 1892, it precipitated twenty years of prosperity from lumbering and tourism.

New York State Route 28 crosses the southern part of the town from west to east, passing through the communities of Old Forge and Thendara.