The old hymn entitled “Little is Much When God is in It” is an accurate summary of the life of Dr. Clara A. Swain. Born on July 18, 1834, in … Continue reading Castile Girl, Dr. Clara A. Swain
The People of the State of NY vs. Edward Russell
Wyoming County’s First Hanging Note: Thanks to Nancy, one of Along the Genesee’s readers who suggested today’s post. While contractors hired to construct the Portage Bridge were finalizing plans to … Continue reading The People of the State of NY vs. Edward Russell
The Last Council Fire
Six Nations Background Arguably, the most historic event organized by William Pryor Letchworth took place on October 1, 1872. It was held on the Council Grounds overlooking the Glen Iris … Continue reading The Last Council Fire
Crime Along the River: The Killing of Alfred Silverheels
****************************Headline from The Castilian November 18, 1904 INDIAN-WHISKEY JEALOUSYCaused the Murder of Dr. Alfred Silverheels the night of Sep.30.BURIED IN POTATO FIELDJames Jemison Accused Of the Murder by His Wife and Daughter,Is Still … Continue reading Crime Along the River: The Killing of Alfred Silverheels
The Strange Life and Death of James Blodget – Hermit of Hermitage
We’ll be straying a bit from the Genesee River today, but not too far as we delve into the life of James L. Blodget, the Hermit of Hermitage. Much has … Continue reading The Strange Life and Death of James Blodget – Hermit of Hermitage
The Piano King of Castile, NY
One of the most influential and successful businessmen in Castile, NY, between 1861 and 1908 was Willis Frederick Graves. Born on January 14, 1831 in the Town of Eagle, Willis was the second child of Ralph Graves, who had … Continue reading The Piano King of Castile, NY
Murder & Mayhem – Death on the Tracks
Two deaths in the village of Castile in the fall of 1913 were connected to the Erie Railroad. The first was a murder in September, and the other was ruled … Continue reading Murder & Mayhem – Death on the Tracks
Battle of the District Attorneys
The attorneys who tried the case of the People vs. Robert Brunt a/k/a Robert Van Brunt were no legal lightweights. The prosecutor was Eugene Myron Bartlett, Wyoming County’s young district … Continue reading Battle of the District Attorneys
The Portage Bridge
The iconic vista of the Portage Bridge high over the Genesee River is unforgettable for any visitor to Letchworth State Park. It’s certainly a favorite place for me. And if you’re … Continue reading The Portage Bridge
Genesee Valley Canal
With the Erie Canal’s opening in 1825 and its success in moving goods and people across New York State, canal enthusiasm ran high. Western New York residents, with the support … Continue reading Genesee Valley Canal
Along the Genesee 