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European settlement of Southwest NY began in the very late 1700's and continued throughout the 1800's. Areas along Lake Erie were the first explored and settled. Following typical patterns, settlements began along lakes and rivers and spread throughout the valleys. Roads were built through these valleys connecting the various towns together.
The Holland Land Company was primarily responsible for surveying and dividing the area into county and town plots. Towns were sectioned off into six mile wide areas as a general rule. Counties were surveyed at about 30-40 miles across. Legend has it that the counties were divided into that size because it was generally accepted that a man on horseback could travel across the county in one day. Therefore if the county seat was in a central location, you could travel to the county seat and home again in one day.
The area saw tremendous growth in the hundred years between 1850 and 1950. This is when the cities sprang up, the railroads were built, and community facilities like hospitals and libraries were constructed. The downtown areas of the cities and villages were constructed during this timeframe, as was much of the housing stock. Because of this, there are several historic districts and period homes that are fantastic examples of workmanship and architecture.
After this period the landscape began to change somewhat into the 1990's. Urban renewal took down some of the old buildings and districts and replaced them with modern facilities. The area also suffered the traditional rust-belt plight. Leaving many factories vacant and in disrepair.
Today a renewed commitment to the region has been born. Efforts to revitalize and reinvigorate the economy and communities have been wildly successful.
Explore our area below and you will see the historic treasures we protect, along with the revitalized growth of the economy. Select the neighborhood, historic sites, downtown areas, or any other appropriate category below to start exploring.
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