(Seal of Chautauqua County displayed at the New York World's Fair 1939-1940.)
By Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
Our county’s history continues to shine with stories of pioneering community spirit, unique local events, and milestones that shaped our region’s development. Here are some memorable moments from this week in history.
November 3, 1826 – Quakers Begin Meetings in Ellery
The Society of Friends, or Quakers, were granted permission to hold monthly meetings in Ellery. Their presence helped instill a spirit of peace and community in the region, and the Quaker influence on local values and education can still be felt today.
November 4, 1929 – Firemen's Fraternity Incorporation
The Chautauqua County Firemen's Fraternity was incorporated to promote camaraderie and support among local firefighters. Today, their grounds in Stockton serve as a venue for fire-related training, events, and gatherings, upholding their legacy of dedication to public safety.
November 5, 1869 – The Great Fire of Sherman
The Great Fire in Sherman was a major disaster, damaging much of the town and forcing the community to rebuild. Fires like these were unfortunately common in 19th-century towns, often changing the landscapes of entire communities and prompting towns to establish stronger fire safety practices.
November 6, 1899 – “The Crib” on Chautauqua Lake
Willis Whitney received a deed for an artificial island called “The Crib” in Chautauqua Lake, marking a unique piece of local lore. Whitney, originally from Jamestown, went on to become a renowned chemist and established the General Electric Research Laboratories, leading innovations in industrial chemistry.
November 7, 1898 – Theodore Roosevelt Visits Jamestown
Theodore Roosevelt made his first visit to Jamestown, where he likely made a strong impression on local residents. As a progressive leader and future president, his ideas and charisma were known to captivate audiences and would leave a lasting legacy on the region’s political scene.
November 8, 1929 – Smallpox Outbreak Excludes Students from School
Amid a smallpox outbreak, 528 unvaccinated children were excluded from Jamestown schools. This incident reflects the public health challenges of the time and the strict measures taken to protect communities, similar to recent health measures during the COVID-19 pandemic.
November 9, 1906 – Arrival of First Albanian Family in Jamestown
The Poiadza family became the first Albanian family to settle in Jamestown, symbolizing the diverse immigration that has enriched Chautauqua County over the years. As newcomers built lives here, they brought cultural diversity and contributed to the fabric of the local community.
November 9, 1965 – Northeast Blackout Affects Chautauqua County
A major power blackout struck the Northeast, including Chautauqua County. This event highlighted the need for infrastructure improvements in the power grid, leading to efforts across the country to strengthen electrical resilience.
Each of these events offers a glimpse into the vibrant and varied history of Chautauqua County, demonstrating the enduring impact of the past on our present-day community.
