(Seal of Chautauqua County displayed at the New York World's Fair 1939-1940.)
By Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
Chautauqua County's rich history is marked by significant events that have shaped its communities, institutions, and culture. As we look back at the week of November 24 - 30, we highlight some of the key moments that made an impact on the area.
November 24, 1913 – Robert H. Jackson Admitted to the Bar
Chautauqua County native Robert H. Jackson was admitted to the bar, setting him on the path to becoming one of the most influential legal figures of the 20th century. Jackson went on to serve as U.S. Solicitor General and U.S. Supreme Court Justice, and his legacy continues to inspire generations.
November 24, 1915 – Liberty Bell in Mayville for 15 Minutes
A special moment in local history occurred when the Liberty Bell was brought to Mayville for a brief 15-minute stop. This fleeting visit marked a patriotic moment for the community, allowing locals to connect with a symbol of American freedom and history.
November 24, 1934 – Cornerstone Laid for Jamestown High School
At 10:30 AM on November 24, the cornerstone for the current Jamestown High School was laid. This significant construction project would go on to serve thousands of students, providing a place for education and fostering community pride.
November 24, 1939 – Opening of the First Modern Deer Hunting Season in Chautauqua County
Chautauqua County officially opened its first modern deer hunting season, marking an important shift in local wildlife management and recreational traditions. Deer hunting has since become a staple of the area's culture, with local hunters continuing to observe the season with great enthusiasm.
November 24, 2010 – Ashville Fire Hall Torn Down
A piece of Ashville's history was torn down with the demolition of the local fire hall. The hall had served as a crucial community meeting place and a home base for the volunteer firefighters who helped protect the area.
November 25, 1824 – Fredonia Academy Organized
Fredonia Academy was established, becoming the first educational academy in the county. Opening in 1826, the academy provided an important educational foundation for the community, offering an early opportunity for advanced learning before high schools became widespread.
November 25, 1897 – Jamestown High School Football Team Concludes Undefeated Season
The Jamestown High School football team celebrated a victorious and undefeated season with a win over Buffalo. This achievement highlighted the team’s strength and sportsmanship, making it a memorable event in the area’s athletic history.
November 25, 1915 – Kidder Memorial Church Organized in Jamestown
The Kidder Memorial Church, also known as the United Brethren Church, was organized in Jamestown. It would go on to serve the community with its rich history of spiritual guidance and outreach programs.
November 26, 1825 – Celebration at Mayville for Opening of the Erie Canal
The opening of the Erie Canal was celebrated in Mayville, an event with far-reaching consequences for Chautauqua County and all of New York State. The canal opened new avenues for trade and transportation, propelling the region into economic growth and fostering connections across the state.
November 26, 1958 – Jamestown Concert Association Incorporated
The Jamestown Concert Association was officially incorporated after being established in September 1957. This organization would go on to bring high-quality musical performances to the area, enriching the cultural life of the region for years to come.
November 26, 2004 – Brooklyn Square Christmas Tree Re-instituted in Jamestown
A holiday tradition was revived when the Christmas tree at Brooklyn Square in Jamestown was reinstated. The tree would become a central part of the community’s holiday celebrations, bringing festive cheer and a sense of togetherness to the area.
November 27, 1793 – Proposal to Create a New State from Western New York
A historic meeting in Seneca, New York, proposed the creation of a new state from Western New York. Although the idea was not pursued, this early conversation about the region's governance highlights the unique identity and challenges faced by Chautauqua County and its neighbors.
November 27, 1823 – First Child Born in Sherman, Archibald Dorman
Sherman welcomed its first resident-born child, Archibald Dorman, marking an early milestone in the town’s development. This event reflected the steady growth of the community and the establishment of family roots in the area.
November 27, 1950 – First Jamestown Casualty of the Korean War, PFC James R. Spitzer
The community of Jamestown mourned the loss of PFC James R. Spitzer, the first casualty of the Korean War from the area. His death served as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by local families during times of conflict.
November 28, 1830 – First Congregational Church Organized at Panama
The First Congregational Church in Panama was organized, later becoming the First Presbyterian Church. This church would serve as a spiritual cornerstone for the community for generations.
November 28, 1838 – Tragic Death of Edward Lloyd Garrison Storum
A heartbreaking incident occurred when 3-year-old Edward Lloyd Garrison Storum of Busti died after falling into a kettle of boiling water. This tragic event brought attention to the need for improved safety measures in homes and communities.
November 28, 1921 – Charter Presented for Jamestown Chapter of the Rose Cross, a Masonic Body
The Jamestown chapter of the Rose Cross, a Masonic body, was presented its charter. The Masons have long been a prominent organization in the community, contributing to charitable efforts and civic life.
November 28, 1946 – Dunkirk/Dunkirque (France) Day
A post-war aid venture in Dunkirk, France, was nationally publicized as Dunkirk/Dunkirque Day. This event highlighted the collaborative efforts of local communities in the United States and Europe to provide relief in the aftermath of World War II.
November 30, 1810 – Uriah Bentley Family Settles Lakewood
At midnight, the Uriah Bentley family became the first settlers in Lakewood, officially marking the town's founding. This settlement would go on to shape the development of the community, providing a foundation for future growth.
November 30, 1947 – End of the Last Run of the JW & NW Railroad
The last run of the JW & NW Railroad marked the end of the electric passenger inter-urban rail service in New York State. This event signified a shift in transportation methods, as the county and state increasingly relied on automobiles and other modern forms of travel.
November 30, 1958 – WKBW-TV Went On Air in Buffalo
WKBW-TV, a significant television station based in Buffalo, began broadcasting. The station's reach and influence extended to Chautauqua County, helping to connect local communities to the broader media landscape.
As we reflect on these events, we are reminded of the many ways that Chautauqua County has evolved over the years, with each milestone contributing to the history and identity of the region. From the opening of the Erie Canal to the end of the railroad era, these events offer a window into the past and a reminder of how far we've come.
