West NY News

The historic Buffalo Grill in Jamestown, the city's oldest building, remains in a state of abandonment and disrepair at the intersection of Buffalo and East Second Streets. A historical marker near the dilapidated structure serves as a reminder of its past significance.

Constructed in 1826 by Darius and John Dexter, the Buffalo Grill was originally a stagecoach stop on the route from Buffalo to Pittsburgh. This makes it the most ancient edifice still standing in Jamestown. The Dexter brothers, early settlers in Chautauqua County, arrived in the region in 1816 and managed various enterprises, including a tavern, store, ashery, mill, and quarry. However, only the tavern remains as a physical testament to these ventures.

John Dexter played multiple roles in the county's early history. Before settling east of Jamestown, he lived in the Mayville area. He relocated to what became known as Dexterville, a district later incorporated into Jamestown on April 22, 1873. His community involvement included serving as an assistant justice, county clerk from 1815 to 1828, and as a secretary of the county Republican Party, a precursor to the modern Democratic Party, in 1812. Dexter was also active in the state militia and contributed to local education by donating lands and funds.

The Dexter brothers headed west to Wisconsin Territory in 1836, and John Dexter's lineage includes a connection to the wife of William Jennings Bryan. The couple visited the old Dexterville Tavern during Bryan's 1896 presidential campaign.

The Buffalo Grill's original structure was a modest three-room building with local stone foundations. Extensive renovations took place in the 1930s and 1940s, adding a second story and altering the porch. Despite its historical significance, no current preservation efforts are in place. Local historian Norman Carlson emphasizes the need for documentation, including photographs and examinations of construction techniques, timber patterns, and foundation stones. He also advocates for an analysis of the local mortar used in construction.