(Seal of Chautauqua County displayed at the New York World's Fair 1939-1940.)
Research by Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
As we move through March, we take a moment to reflect on some significant historical events that have shaped Chautauqua County. From early settlements to cultural milestones, this week’s retrospective highlights the resilience and innovation of our local communities.
March 9
- 1806 – Bemus Point was settled by William Bemus, one of the first pioneers on Chautauqua Lake and the progenitor of a large local family that remains influential today.
- 1925 – Henry Ford sponsored a fiddle contest at Shea’s Theater in Jamestown, one of many he organized across the nation to celebrate traditional music.
- 1958 – Holy Trinity Lutheran Church on Forest Avenue in Jamestown was dedicated. It is now part of Tree of Life Lutheran.
March 10
- 1848 – The first telegrapher arrived in Fredonia, leading to the establishment of Chautauqua County’s first telegraph station. This innovation drastically reduced communication times from the speed of a horse to the speed of light.
- 1893 – The Buffalo Street pumping station in Jamestown became operational, marking a significant advancement in the city’s water infrastructure.
- 1935 – Legendary entertainer George M. Cohan, known for composing patriotic hits such as Over There, performed at Shea’s Theater in Jamestown.
March 11
- 1894 – Chautauqua Lake experienced its earliest recorded ice breakup.
- 1909 – Elite Furniture Company was incorporated in Jamestown, contributing to the area’s reputation as a hub for fine furniture manufacturing.
- 1919 – The Fenton Mansion was deeded from the Fenton family to the City of Jamestown, later becoming a meeting place for veterans’ organizations.
- 1920 – An American flag was raised for the first time in the newly created Busti Triangle.
- 1944 – Mrs. Bertha L. Hamilton left a bequest of half a million dollars to establish a home for "dumb animals" in Ripley.
- 1969 – The cornerstone from Jamestown’s old YMCA building, originally placed on January 1, 1900, was unearthed and given to the Fenton Historical Society.
- 1983 – The first meeting of Unitarians in Fredonia was held, leading to the formation of the Unitarian Universalist Society of Northern Chautauqua County.
- 1993 – The Chautauqua County Safehouse opened, offering vital protection and support services.
March 12
- 1908 – Jamestown High School conducted its first-ever fire drill.
- 1909 – The Busti South Side Sunshine Birthday Club held its first meeting at the home of Mrs. Frank Cleland, reflecting the prominence of neighborhood clubs in the early 20th century.
- 1909 – Jamestown hosted its first automobile show, marking the county’s embrace of the burgeoning automotive industry.
- 1910 – A devastating fire at the Gokey building in Jamestown claimed the lives of two firefighters, underscoring the need for a professional fire department to replace volunteer companies.
- 1924 – Joe Alex Bloomquist bowled the first sanctioned 300 game in Chautauqua County history.
- 1932 – The Bank of Jamestown building at Third and Main opened, furthering local economic development.
- 1968 – The organizational meeting for the Lakewood-Busti Golden Agers was held, though the group remained inactive until May 1970.
- 1973 – The Historical Society of Dunkirk was officially organized.
March 14
- 1909 – Rev. Dewey Martin resigned from his pastorate at Busti Baptist Church.
March 15
- 1825 – Busti School District #13 was formed. Sixty years later, the neighborhood became known as Boomertown, now near the Cummins Engine Plant.
- 1888 – The first meeting of the Jamestown YMCA was held, marking the start of a long-standing institution in the community.
- 1900 – A meeting of Jamestown carpenters resulted in a proclamation in favor of an eight-hour workday, advocating for improved labor conditions.
- 1991 – The Rotary Club of Greater Jamestown AM was chartered.
- 1991 – At 8:30 a.m., Jamestown received its last residential coal delivery, marking the end of an era.
These historical moments offer a glimpse into the evolution of our community, showcasing milestones in communication, public service, business, and culture. We celebrate the legacy of those who came before us and the continued growth of Chautauqua County.
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