(Seal of Chautauqua County displayed at the New York World's Fair 1939-1940.)
Research by Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
As we look back at historical events from February 9 to 15, Chautauqua County has witnessed remarkable milestones that have shaped its community and culture.
February 9:
- 1871 - The Methodist Camp Meeting Association was formed at Mayville, with plans to purchase land on Chautauqua Lake. This land would later become the site of the renowned Chautauqua Institution.
- 1885 - S.S. Peter and Paul’s Branch 77 of the Catholic Mutual Benevolent Association was organized in Jamestown.
- 1931 - Communists stormed a Jamestown City Council meeting, reflecting the political turbulence of the time.
- 1934 - The county experienced a bitter cold snap with temperatures dropping to -36°F at Busti Mill and -25°F in Jamestown.
- 2002 - The Green Farm fashion shop in Lakewood closed its doors, marking the end of an era for the local retail scene.
February 10:
- 1825 - Stage service between Erie and Buffalo became daily, passing through Chautauqua County, helping to connect the region more closely to surrounding areas.
- 1868 - The Westfield Union School was organized, providing educational opportunities to the growing community.
- 1877 - The Farmers' Club of Hanover was formed, a pivotal organization in supporting agricultural development in the region.
- 1957 - Jamestown commemorated its first observance of Negro History Week, a vital step toward recognizing and celebrating African American history.
- 1997 - Demolition began on the Union National factory in Jamestown, once known for producing upscale furniture.
February 11:
- 1873 - Quince Converse pushed a barrel of flour in a wheelbarrow from Jamestown to Frewsburg after losing a bet, creating a humorous local legend.
- 1924 - Jamestown held a memorial service for former President Woodrow Wilson at Wintergarden Theater, honoring his legacy.
- 1947 - Leonard Lee brutally beat his housekeeper, Mrs. Dorothy Ware, to death in Kiantone.
- 1957 - A referendum in Dunkirk resulted in the approval of the sale of the municipal electrical distribution system to Niagara Mohawk.
- 1973 - The notorious Hallet murders occurred in Busti, sending shockwaves through the community.
- 1977 - Another tragic event was the murder at Hogan’s Hut in Stow.
- 1979 - Temperatures dropped to a chilling -30°F at Ross Mills, marking a severe cold spell.
- 2010 - Gas from the Chautauqua County landfill was used to generate electricity in a groundbreaking first test.
February 12:
- 1836 - Cornplanter, a significant Native American leader, passed away near Chautauqua County at the Cornplanter Grant.
- 1897 - Summer cottages at Lakewood were burglarized, highlighting early crime concerns in the area.
- 1907 - Jamestown’s black pioneer and underground railroad activist, Catharine Harris, died, leaving behind a lasting legacy of courage and activism.
February 13:
- 1859 - The First Universalist Society of Sinclairville was formed, contributing to the religious diversity in the region.
- 1900 - Batcheler’s Boat Factory in Jamestown was destroyed by fire, marking a significant loss to the local industry.
- 1939 - The derelict steamboat City of Cincinnati was burned by vandals near Jamestown.
- 1991 - Jennie Vimmerstedt, Jamestown’s most honored and beloved woman, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of kindness and community service.
February 14:
- 1828 - The First Baptist Church of Jamestown was incorporated after breaking off from the Busti Baptist Church in December 1827.
- 1856 - A bowling alley in Fentonville collapsed, nearly killing two men—a bizarre accident that captured the attention of locals.
- 1873 - Busti hosted a grand concert that climaxed a week-long singing school and music classes, fostering community engagement with the arts.
- 1891 - The preliminary meeting to form the Jamestown Board of Trade took place at 8:40 PM, laying the foundation for economic development.
- 1914 - The Baptist Church in Jamestown was destroyed by fire, leading to efforts to rebuild and serve the community anew.
- 1936 - Robert H. Jackson was appointed assistant U.S. attorney general, a milestone in the career of the future Supreme Court Justice.
- 1961 - Famed CBS television newsman Eric Severeid spoke in Jamestown, sharing insights with the local audience.
- 2013 - WCA Hospital in Jamestown conducted its first robotic surgery, marking a significant advancement in local healthcare.
February 15:
- 1900 - A banquet at the Sherman House honored William Broadhead as Jamestown’s most influential citizen, recognizing his immense impact on the community.
- 1979 - The Baptist Church in Jamestown was destroyed by arson, set by 17-year-old Mathew Rivera.
- 1982 - Andriaccio’s Restaurant in Chautauqua opened, taking over the former DePonceau’s gas station and becoming a local favorite.
- 1992 - The early morning murder of Christopher Salzarullo occurred in Dunkirk, an event that shook the community to its core.
These events remind us of the rich history that continues to shape Chautauqua County, from educational advancements and local milestones to moments of tragedy and triumph.
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