Loading...
New York State was home to several utopian communities in the 19th century, including the Oneida Community in central New York, which practiced communal living and free love, and the Shakers, who were known for their furniture and craftsmanship.
About Wyoming County
Wyoming County Timeline
Wyoming County, located in western New York, has a rich and diverse history dating back thousands of years. The region was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, particularly the Seneca and Tuscarora nations. They utilized the fertile land for hunting, fishing, and agriculture, forming a connection with the natural resources that still resonates today.
European settlers first arrived in the late 18th century, with the area officially becoming Wyoming County in 1841. The county derives its name from a Delaware Indian word meaning "large plains." Throughout the early years, the economy relied heavily on agriculture and timber, with farms and sawmills dotting the landscape.
One notable event in the county's history is the construction of the Genesee Valley Canal, which connected the Erie Canal to the southern parts of the state. This canal helped fuel economic growth and facilitated the transportation of goods across the county. However, the canal faced challenges with declining usage due to the rise of railroads, ultimately leading to its demise in the late 19th century.
Wyoming County has also experienced significant industrialization throughout its history. The discovery of natural gas in the late 19th century sparked an energy boom, leading to the establishment of gas wells and factories in the region. Today, the county continues to be an important center for agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
In summary, Wyoming County, NY has a diverse history that encompasses Native American settlements, early European colonization, agricultural development, canal transportation, industrialization, and the continued importance of agriculture and tourism to its economy.
European settlers first arrived in the late 18th century, with the area officially becoming Wyoming County in 1841. The county derives its name from a Delaware Indian word meaning "large plains." Throughout the early years, the economy relied heavily on agriculture and timber, with farms and sawmills dotting the landscape.
One notable event in the county's history is the construction of the Genesee Valley Canal, which connected the Erie Canal to the southern parts of the state. This canal helped fuel economic growth and facilitated the transportation of goods across the county. However, the canal faced challenges with declining usage due to the rise of railroads, ultimately leading to its demise in the late 19th century.
Wyoming County has also experienced significant industrialization throughout its history. The discovery of natural gas in the late 19th century sparked an energy boom, leading to the establishment of gas wells and factories in the region. Today, the county continues to be an important center for agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism.
In summary, Wyoming County, NY has a diverse history that encompasses Native American settlements, early European colonization, agricultural development, canal transportation, industrialization, and the continued importance of agriculture and tourism to its economy.
Wyoming County Timeline
This timeline provides a concise overview of the key events in the history of Wyoming County, New York.
- 1812: Wyoming County is officially established by the New York State Legislature.
- 1836: Letchworth State Park, also known as the "Grand Canyon of the East," is established in Wyoming County.
- 1862: The first oil well in Wyoming County is drilled in the town of Arcade, leading to an oil boom in the area.
- 1863: The Wyoming County Fair, one of the oldest county fairs in New York, begins its annual tradition.
- 1944: Construction of the Perry-Warsaw Airport commences, serving as an important hub for aviation in the region.
- 1970: The Attica Prison riot occurs, making national headlines and leading to significant changes in the prison system.
- 1997: The Windmill Farm and Craft Market opens, becoming a popular attraction for tourists and locals.
- 2010: Wyoming County experiences a population growth, with record numbers in agriculture and manufacturing.