Breaking News

Retrospective

County history this week

February 4 — 1836 – The Union Sepulchral Society of Sherman and Chautauqua was organized, leading to the establishment of Sherman Cemetery. 1868 – In a bold act of defiance, Elizabeth Blanchfield and Susan Keen were arrested on Jamestown’s 3rd Street for wearing men’s clothing, smoking cigars, and carrying a revolver. 1898 – The Jamestown Journal absorbed the Jamestown Weekly News, consolidating local news coverage. February 5 1818 – Dunkirk’s post office was established, enhancing mail service in the growing village. 1896 – The United Brethren Church in ...

County history this week

February 2 — 1856 – Mayville endured a brutal cold spell, recording a temperature of -34°F. — 1871 – A devastating fire consumed two blocks in downtown Jamestown, reshaping the business district. — 1967 – Dunkirk Dave, the famed weather woodchuck, made his debut, becoming a local tradition for predicting winter’s duration. — 1972 – The Busti Historical Society was established, dedicated to preserving the town’s rich history. February 3 — 1943 – The first issue of Findley Lake S NEWS ER, created using the spirit duplicator (“Ditto” process), was ...

County history this week

January 26 1900: A tragic event shook Fredonia as Salvatore Latona was murdered. January 27 1860: A devastating fire destroyed Abram Frank’s tannery in Busti, with losses exceeding $3,000—an immense sum at the time. 1877: The Broadhead Mills in Jamestown began weaving operations, contributing to the area’s textile industry boom. 1903: The Home Telephone Company connected Jamestown to Busti, enhancing communication in the region. 1958: World-renowned comedian and pianist Victor Borge performed at Shea’s in Jamestown, bringing laughter and music to the community.

County history today

Jan. 24 — 1900: Jamestown Gas Co.announced plans to cease operations as natural gas became the dominant energy source. — 1953: Roger Tory Peterson Day was celebrated in Jamestown, honoring the renowned naturalist and ornithologist. — 2011: The main lodge at Cockaigne ski resort tragically burned down, a loss to local recreation.

County history this week

Jan. 22 — 1880: The village of Lakewood officially received its name, becoming the first location in the world with this designation. Previously, it was called Lake View and Cowings. — 1934: City College (a precursor to Jamestown Community College) held its first night class, laying the foundation for modern higher education in the county. — 1951: The Chautauqua County Historical Society moved into the McClurg Mansion in Westfield, establishing its first permanent home. — 1961: A fire devastated the Colonnade at Chautauqua Institution, a significant loss to the historic ...

County history this week

Jan. 19 — 1870: Counterfeiters were discovered operating in the area of Panama Rocks, adding to the site’s lore as a place of mystery and intrigue. — 1960: Elizabeth Packard, widow of J. Ward Packard of the Packard Motor Company, passed away. The couple were renowned philanthropists in Lakewood's history. Jan. 20 — 1903: Rumsey Manufacturing Company was incorporated in Ripley to produce stationary gasoline engines. A few of these historic engines remain in existence today. Jan. 21 — 1845: The first day of a two-day Anti-Slavery Convention took place in Jamestown, ...