National Register Listing

Seneca County Courthouse Complex at Ovid

a.k.a. Three Bears

NY 414, Ovid, NY
Local significance of the building:
Architecture

Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1976.

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.

law courthouses buildings
The Stonewall Inn in Greenwich Village, New York City, was the site of the Stonewall riots in 1969, which are considered the birth of the modern gay rights movement.
New York random facts
Seneca County, located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, has a rich and diverse history. The area was originally inhabited by Native American tribes such as the Cayuga and the Seneca, who used the land for hunting and agriculture. In the late 18th century, European settlers began to move into the area, displacing the native population.

The county was officially established in 1804 and named after the Seneca people. It quickly became an important center for trade and commerce due to its strategic location along the Seneca River and the Erie Canal. The opening of the canal in 1825 further boosted economic development, allowing for the transportation of goods to and from the Great Lakes, New York City, and beyond.

During the mid-19th century, Seneca County experienced a significant influx of German and Irish immigrants, who came seeking employment opportunities in the growing manufacturing and industrial sectors. The county became known for its flour mills, breweries, and textile factories. The population also grew with the construction of the Seneca Army Depot during World War II, which brought a surge of workers to the area.

In recent decades, Seneca County has faced economic challenges with the decline of traditional industries. However, the county remains a popular tourist destination, thanks to its picturesque landscapes, vibrant farm-to-table food scene, and numerous wineries and breweries. Today, Seneca County is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and a strong sense of community.

This timeline provides a condensed summary of the historical journey of Seneca County, New York.

  • 1789: Seneca County is established as one of the original counties in the state of New York.
  • 1809: Construction of the Seneca Canal begins, connecting Seneca Lake to the Erie Canal.
  • 1817: The construction of the Seneca Canal is completed, facilitating transportation and trade in the region.
  • 1823: The village of Waterloo is incorporated, becoming the first village in Seneca County.
  • 1844: The First Women's Rights Convention is held in Seneca Falls, marking a significant event in the women's suffrage movement.
  • 1883: The Historic Seneca County Courthouse is built in Waterloo, serving as the seat of government for the county.
  • 1903: The Seneca Army Depot is established, becoming an important military installation during World War II and the Cold War.
  • 2015: The Seneca Meadows Landfill, one of the largest landfills in New York State, ceases operations after nearly 30 years.