(Seal of Chautauqua County displayed at the New York World's Fair 1939-1940.)
Research by Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
This week in Chautauqua County history, we uncover tales of progress, loss, and community milestones spanning over two centuries.
January 26
- 1900: A tragic event shook Fredonia as Salvatore Latona was murdered.
- 1937: The M.J. Fletcher School in Jamestown opened its doors, marking a significant educational milestone.
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.
- 1886: The Gustavus Adolphus Children’s Home, now part of the Lutheran campus, was officially opened in Jamestown, symbolizing care and compassion.
- 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.
January 28
- 1878: An ambitious attempt to transmit music via telephone between Jamestown and Warren was successful, though deemed impractical for widespread use.
- 1948: WJOC (now WKSN) began broadcasting in Jamestown, establishing a new voice in local radio.
- 1976: The Busti Historical Society received its permanent charter, securing its role in preserving local history.
- 2002: The last day of school crossing guards in Jamestown occurred, although they were reinstated the following year.
- 2004: A fire destroyed the west end of the historic Broadhead Mills in Jamestown, marking the end of an era.
January 29
- 1885: Jamestown saw the introduction of door-to-door mail delivery, improving daily convenience.
- 1950: The steamer City of Jamestown made a winter cruise on an ice-free Chautauqua Lake—an unusual feat for January.
- 1955: The Empire Worsted Mill closed its doors, signaling the decline of Jamestown's once-thriving textile industry.
- 2002: Denny’s Restaurant in Lakewood closed its doors at 4 PM, marking the end of a local favorite.
January 30
- 1836: The Kennedy Baptist Church was organized, laying the foundation for a spiritual community.
- 1897: The historic Cassadaga Hotel was lost to a fire, a reminder of the fragility of such landmarks.
- 1979: Early risers witnessed the collapse of a 500-foot radio tower for WWSE-FM in West Ellicott at 6:40 AM.
- 2012: Chautauqua County's first robotic milking system began operating on a farm near Westfield, showcasing agricultural innovation.
January 31
- 1843: The Church of Christ in Busti was organized in a schoolhouse, fostering faith near the Pennsylvania border.
- 1861: A fire destroyed Main Street in Jamestown between 2nd and 3rd Streets, reshaping the town’s core.
- 1871: Hunters in Busti captured 34 skunks, selling each pelt for 50 to 60 cents—a small fortune in its time.
- 1955: The old school in Celoron, built in 1898, was demolished, erasing a piece of the village's history.
- 1985: Residents experienced the rumble of an earthquake, a rare occurrence in the region.
February 1
- 1837: Abolition lectures in Jamestown faced mob opposition, highlighting the struggles faced by early anti-slavery advocates.
This week's events remind us of the resilience, creativity, and compassion that have shaped Chautauqua County over the decades. Whether it was through community growth, industrial innovation, or acts of courage, the stories from our past continue to inspire.
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