Ethnic Heritage

Cattaraugus County, located in western New York, has a rich history dating back to its Native American roots. Prior to European settlement, the land was inhabited by the Seneca Nation of the Iroquois Confederacy. They cultivated the fertile land and established various settlements, including the village of Cattaraugus, from which the county derived its name.

European settlers arrived in the late 18th century, and conflicts with the Native American tribes, particularly during the American Revolution, shaped the early history of the county. The Sullivan Expedition of 1779, led by General John Sullivan, resulted in the destruction of several Native American communities, including those in Cattaraugus County. After the Revolutionary War, the land was opened for settlement, attracting pioneers from New England and Pennsylvania.

In 1808, Cattaraugus County was officially founded and organized. The county's economy initially relied on agriculture, with numerous farms and small businesses emerging. By the mid-19th century, sawmills and tanneries became prominent industries due to the region's abundant timber resources.

The Erie Railroad's arrival in the mid-1800s brought further development, connecting the county to larger markets and stimulating economic growth. Cattaraugus County also played a role in the Underground Railroad, providing a route to freedom for enslaved individuals seeking refuge. Today, the county is known for its diverse landscape, historical landmarks, and being home to the Seneca Nation's Allegany Reservation.