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Retrospective

County history today

October 1 — 1761 — Sir William Johnson visited Barcelona, a key figure in 18th-century New York history, especially during the French and Indian War. — 1852 —A smallpox outbreak began in the poorhouse at Dewittville, emphasizing the public health challenges of the time. — 1902 — The Home Telephone Company of Jamestown was organized, laying the foundation for our region's telecommunications. — 1938 — Noted hammer dulcimer player Jesse Martin passed away. Martin's contributions to music were significant, with his performances helping to promote the instrument's ...

County history today

Sept. 30: — 1851 — Harrison Williams, a fugitive slave, was captured in Busti by his owner from Virginia, highlighting the dark realities of slavery and the struggles for freedom during that era. — 1909 — The new YMCA building opened in Jamestown, which served as a hub for community activities until its demolition. — 1943 — The first test flight of the drone bomber TDR-1 took place at Jamestown Airport, a secretive project that showcased local contributions to military innovation. — 1985 — Busti town government offices relocated to 121 Chautauqua Avenue, Lakewood, ...

County history today

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 ...

County history today

September 24 — 1882 — Jumbo, the famous elephant, visited Jamestown, leaving a lasting impression on residents who got to see the famed circus animal up close. — 1908 — The cornerstone was laid for a previous Y.M.C.A. building in Jamestown, establishing a key community facility. — 1944 — The Jamestown Area Safety Council was formed, promoting public safety and accident prevention in the area. — 1949 — Warner Sallman, the artist behind the well-known Head of Christ painting, visited Jamestown, drawing attention for his iconic religious artwork.

County history today

Sept. 25 — 1813 — The east end of Baker Street Extension in West Ellicott was surveyed, an important step in the area’s development. — 1845 — The Congregational Church in Sinclairville was dedicated, becoming a central place of worship and community for the town. — 1861 — In one of Jamestown’s earliest baseball games, the local team lost to Titusville at “A&E Junction,” when baseball was still in its infancy. — 1874 — The steamboat P.J. Hannour burned at Jamestown, a significant loss during the height of steamboat transportation. — 1901 ...

County history today

Sept. 24: — 1872 — Walter Sessions delivered a speech in Busti advocating for the election of Ulysses S. Grant as president and Henry Wilson as vice president. — 1875 — The Pomona Grange, representing Chautauqua County, was organized, supporting local farmers and promoting agricultural cooperation. — 1906 — Regular trolley service began between Mayville and Westfield, enhancing public transportation and connectivity in the county. — 1919 — Jamestown opened its first infantile paralysis (polio) clinic, the first of its kind in southwestern New York, providing ...