National Register Listing

Chemung Railway Depot-Horseheads

a.k.a. Horseheads Railroad Station

312 W. Broad St., Horseheads, NY
Local significance of the building:
Community Planning And Development; Transportation; Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1996.

The National Register of Historic Places is the official list of the Nation’s historic places worthy of preservation. Authorized by the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places is part of a national program to coordinate and support public and private efforts to identify, evaluate, and protect America’s historic and archeological resources.

community planning and development transportation architecture
In 1777, the Battle of Saratoga took place in upstate New York and is considered a turning point in the American Revolution. It was the first major American victory and led to France recognizing the United States as a sovereign nation and entering the war as an ally.
New York random facts
Chemung County, located in upstate New York, has a rich history that spans several centuries. Its origins can be traced back to the Native American tribes, particularly the Cayuga and the Seneca, who inhabited the region before the arrival of European settlers. The area was subsequently colonized by the British in the 18th century, and there were several skirmishes between the colonizers and Native American groups during the French and Indian War. However, after the American Revolution, the Native American population was progressively displaced.

In the early 19th century, Chemung County experienced significant growth with the construction of the Chemung Canal, which connected the state's southern and northern regions. This canal played a crucial role in stimulating trade and attracting settlers to the area. The county was officially established in 1836, named after the Chemung River that runs through it.

During the mid-19th century, the region became a hub for manufacturing and transportation, with industries such as railroads, lumber, and textiles flourishing. The arrival of the railroad expanded economic opportunities, making Chemung County an important transportation center for the region. The county's largest city, Elmira, emerged as a prosperous industrial center and a key hub on the Erie Railroad line.

In the 20th century, Chemung County experienced its fair share of challenges and successes. It played a significant role during World War II, with the Elmira Correctional Facility being used as a training camp for soldiers. The county continued to thrive with the growth of various industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. Today, Chemung County remains an important part of the Southern Tier region, with a diverse economy and a rich cultural heritage.

This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Chemung County, New York.

  • 1779 - Chemung County is settled by European American settlers.
  • 1788 - Chemung County becomes part of Montgomery County.
  • 1791 - Chemung County becomes part of Tioga County.
  • 1836 - Chemung County is established as a separate county.
  • 1854 - The City of Elmira is incorporated in Chemung County.
  • 1861-1865 - During the American Civil War, Elmira serves as a Union Army camp and the site of a prisoner-of-war camp.
  • 1968 - The Chemung County Historical Society is founded.
  • 2002 - The Wings of Eagles Discovery Center, an aerospace museum, opens in Elmira.