National Register Listing

Friendship Free Library

40 W. Main St., Friendship, NY
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 2008.

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.

architecture library
Audiobooks about the history of New York.
The Erie Canal, which opened in 1825 and connects the Hudson River to the Great Lakes, was originally mocked as "Clinton's Folly" after Governor DeWitt Clinton, who championed the project. However, the canal became an economic boon for New York and helped turn the state into a major commercial center.
New York random facts
Located in western New York, Allegany County has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, most notably the Seneca Nation. European colonizers, such as French and British explorers, began to arrive in the 17th century to trade with the indigenous peoples.

In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, the area underwent a significant transformation with the arrival of pioneers and settlers from the east. Allegany County was officially established in 1806 and named after the Allegheny River, which flows through much of the county. The construction of the Genesee Valley Canal in the 1830s further stimulated the region's economic growth, as it provided a vital transportation route for trade and commerce.

Allegany County played a role in the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century, as abolitionists helped enslaved individuals escape to freedom through a network of secret routes and safe houses. The county also witnessed significant industrial development during this time, with the establishment of several manufacturing and mining operations.

In the following decades, Allegany County experienced both prosperity and challenges. The decline of the canal system and the impact of the Great Depression led to economic difficulties, but the county managed to adapt and diversify its economy. Today, Allegany County continues to be known for its agriculture, manufacturing, and outdoor recreational opportunities, while also preserving its historical heritage through various museums and landmarks.

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

  • 1806: Allegany County is established in New York State
  • 1821: Angelica becomes the county seat
  • Late 1800s: Discovery of oil leads to economic growth in the county
  • 1900s: Allegany County becomes known for its dairy farming and cheese production
  • 1950s: The construction of Interstate 86 improves transportation in the area
  • 1990s: Allegany County experiences a decline in population due to economic changes
  • Present: Allegany County continues to be a rural area with a strong focus on agriculture