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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

January 13 — 1838: Seven prisoners escaped from the Chautauqua County jail in Mayville during the night. — 1872: The Dunkirk Library Association was formed, fostering literacy and education in the region. January 14 — 1925: Early graves were discovered on West 7th Street in ...

January 5: --- 1970: The last regular passenger train passed through Jamestown, marking the end of an era for rail travel in the region. --- 1987: The demolition of the St. Elmo Hotel at Chautauqua Institution began, a significant change for the area’s historic landscape. --- 2007: Darl ...

Dec. 25 — 1808: Joseph Thayer, the first person to drown in Chautauqua Lake, marks an early tragedy in the area’s history. Dec. 26 — 1897: The Dunkirk Post Office was robbed, one of the many criminal incidents that punctuated the county’s history. Dec. 27 — 1817: The ...