Grace Episcopal Church Complex
7--9 Phelps St. and 12 Lawrence St., Lyons, NY Local significance of the building:Listed in National Register of Historic Places in 1994.
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.
In 1901, President William McKinley was assassinated in Buffalo, New York. He was shot by an anarchist named Leon Czolgosz while attending the Pan-American Exposition.
In the late 18th century, European settlers began to arrive in what is now Wayne County. The region became part of the Sullivan-Clinton Campaign during the American Revolutionary War, as General Sullivan's troops marched through the area, destroying the Native American villages and crops. Following the war, the area experienced rapid growth, and in 1823, Wayne County was officially established.
Agriculture played a vital role in the county's development, with fertile soil and access to the Erie Canal making it an ideal location for farming. The county became known as the "Breadbasket of the Empire State" due to its productive farmland and abundant crop yields. It became a leading producer of apples, cherries, and onions, with orchards and farms dotting the landscape.
During the mid-19th century, Wayne County's economy expanded beyond agriculture. The construction of the Erie Canal and later the railroad brought increased commerce, and industry began to thrive. Mills, factories, and ironworks sprang up, contributing to the county's growth and prosperity.
Wayne County continued to evolve throughout the 20th century, adapting to changes in agriculture and industry. Today, it remains an agricultural hub while also embracing tourism, with its charming small towns, historic sites, and natural beauty attracting visitors from near and far. Its rich history and vibrant communities make Wayne County a unique and significant part of New York's heritage.
Wayne County Timeline
This timeline provides a glimpse into the major events and milestones that have shaped the history of Wayne County, New York.
- 1683 - Wayne County is part of Albany County in the Province of New York.
- 1766 - Ontario County is formed, including present-day Wayne County within its boundaries.
- 1789 - Wayne County is established as a separate county from Ontario County.
- 1805 - Lyons is chosen as the county seat of Wayne County.
- 1810 - Wayne County gains its current boundaries.
- 1823 - The Erie Canal opens, bringing economic growth to Wayne County.
- 1850 - The population of Wayne County reaches over 35,000.
- 1906 - The first commercial fruit farm is established in Wayne County.
- 1952 - Wayne County Airport is opened.
- 2002 - Wayne County celebrates its bicentennial.