September 27

— 1817 — The first Masonic meeting in southern Chautauqua County took place in Jamestown, establishing a Masonic presence in the region.

— 1853 — The first day of the Chautauqua County Fair was held in Stockton, showcasing the county’s agricultural achievements and community spirit.

— 1885 — Natural gas was piped to Jamestown for the first time, a major advancement in the city’s infrastructure and energy use.

— 1888 — Electric lights were first used in Dunkirk, bringing the modern marvel of electricity to the city.

— 1898 — Twelve skulls and other bones were unearthed on the lakefront at Chautauqua Institution, providing a glimpse into the area’s ancient past.

— 1960 — The cornerstone for the Jamestown Federal Building and Post Office, now the Lynn Building, was laid at 3 PM, marking the start of construction on an important civic structure.

— 1969 — The Hotel Jamestown was dedicated as elderly housing, making it the first hotel-to-housing conversion of its kind in the nation.

— 1971 — Demolition began on the Institute Street Bridge in Jamestown, kicking off the urban renewal project that reshaped parts of the city.