West NY News

Historical events in Chautauqua County offer a window into the area’s development over the years. From transportation advancements to significant fires, the county’s past is marked by varied occurrences.

In 1825, the New York State Legislature approved a survey for canals in Chautauqua County, although the project didn’t materialize. The village of Mayville was incorporated in 1830, marking a foundational step in the county’s development.

Several noteworthy events occurred on April 20 throughout history. In 1914, Jamestown's Mayor, Samuel Carlson, launched a "war on flies," which was a public health initiative at the time. Again in 1966, nuclear waste reprocessing began in the nearby West Valley site, illustrating the evolving industrial use in the region.

April 21 marks the formation of the Chautauqua County chapter of the American Red Cross in 1906, while in 1939, a fire destroyed the Prendergast mansion. One community service shift happened in 2006 when St. Susan’s Soup Kitchen relocated within Jamestown.

On April 22, historical events ranged from 1822, when a hollow walnut tree from near Silver Creek was showcased in major cities, to Lois Gibbs's visit in 2010. The Erie Railroad’s first inspection train reached Dunkirk in 1851, linking it to the nation’s longest railroad line then.

April 23 saw Jamestown's history marked by events like the arrest for horse theft in 1897 and significant snowfall in 1901. Also, in 1976, the first Fredonia College Folk Music Weekend began, pointing to cultural enrichment in the area.

Several events occurred on April 24, including the first recorded murder in 1834 and Mayville Academy’s incorporation. On this day in 1963, the Fenton Historical Society was established, contributing to preserving local history.

The arrival of two automobiles in Jamestown in 1900 and New York’s first license plates for vehicles in 1901 highlight April 25's contribution to transportation history. The St. Lawrence Seaway opened on this date in 1959, revolutionizing trade routes.

Lastly, on April 26, road development at Point Chautauqua began in 1876, and the Elks Club opened in Jamestown in 1924. Actress and singer Lillian Russell made an appearance in the city in 1910.

The week's historical reflections capture Chautauqua County's legacy through its advancement in transportation, community development, and cultural enrichment.