(Seal of Chautauqua County displayed at the New York World's Fair 1939-1940.)
Research by Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
As we reflect on another week in Chautauqua County’s rich history, we uncover stories of progress, perseverance, and community change. From significant political visits to local milestones, here are some key events from February 16 - 22 throughout the years.
February 16
- 1861 - Abraham Lincoln’s inaugural train passed through Chautauqua County, making a stop in Dunkirk, where he addressed the gathered crowd.
- 2002 - Philip Morris concluded his 25-year tenure as director of the Arts Council of Chautauqua County, leaving behind a legacy of artistic growth and cultural enrichment.
February 17
- 1911 - Chautauqua Union Free School transitioned into Chautauqua High School, marking a shift toward county- and state-wide high schools replacing Union Free Schools for secondary education.
- 1938 - The Busti Board authorized the use of dynamite to demolish remnants of the washed-out recreational dam at the Busti Grist Mill, which was causing roadway erosion.
- 1953 - The Jamestown Board of Health was reorganized, continuing efforts to maintain public health in the community.
February 18
- 1873 - Phillip Hemsteder, a transient laborer, murdered John Flanders in Brocton during the economic downturn known as the Panic of 1873.
- 1978 - A determined driver, experiencing transmission trouble, navigated his pickup truck 30 miles in reverse from Jamestown to Salamanca.
- 2002 - Busti stock car racer Bobby Schnars was inducted into the Chautauqua Sports Hall of Fame, along with three other distinguished individuals.
February 19
- 1841 - Jamestown’s first brass band made its debut, bringing live music to the growing town.
- 1864 - Castle Hall No. 284 of the Knights of Pythias was organized in Brocton, reflecting the popularity of fraternal organizations at the time.
- 1880 - Dunkirk officially transitioned from a village to a city, becoming the first of two cities in Chautauqua County.
- 1934 - The Astronomers’ Guild of Jamestown was chartered, fostering scientific curiosity and exploration in the area.
- 1985 - The cost of making a call from a Jamestown payphone increased from 10 cents to 25 cents, reflecting the gradual rise in telecommunications costs.
- 1999 - Aldi’s opened in West Ellicott, bringing a new grocery option to local shoppers.
February 20
- 1874 - The first test of Jamestown’s high-pressure steam-powered water system took place, primarily intended for fire protection.
- 1924 - Chiropractors were officially barred from practicing in Jamestown General Hospital, highlighting the ongoing debate over the legitimacy of chiropractic care.
- 1940 - The Jamestown Chapter of the National Society Sons of the American Revolution was chartered, a precursor to today’s active county chapter.
- 1950 - The JW & NW bus service, which had replaced the trolley system, ceased operations between Jamestown and Westfield.
- 1996 - Jamestown’s city government went online for the first time, marking a step forward in digital communication and accessibility.
February 21
- 1854 - Kiantone held its first town meeting, formally establishing local governance.
- 1871 - A tragic household accident resulted in the death of three-year-old George Martin’s son after he pulled over a kettle of boiling water—such incidents were distressingly common in the 19th century.
- 1898 - The first Chautauqua County chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution was founded in Westfield, later merging with the Fredonia Prescott Chapter.
- 1984 - Saga From the Hills, a history of Jamestown’s Swedish community, was published and went on sale.
- 1987 - The first-ever Mayville Ice Castle was constructed, kicking off a winter tradition enjoyed by many.
February 22
- 1843 - Jamestown recorded its first-ever murder—and the county’s second—when Alvin Cornell killed his wife.
- 1953 - Groundbreaking took place for Emmanuel Baptist Church in Jamestown, laying the foundation for future worship and community gathering.
- 1981 - The Frewsburg Missionary Alliance Church held its first meeting, marking its official beginning.
- 2010 - The first Washington Street Bridge in Jamestown was closed for replacement, initiating a major infrastructure upgrade.
These moments in history offer a glimpse into the development, challenges, and achievements that have shaped Chautauqua County. Whether celebrating milestones in education, honoring historical figures, or remembering intriguing events, our past continues to inform and inspire our present.
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