Allegany County, New York, located in the southwestern part of the state, is an area rich with historical significance, natural beauty, and small-town charm. Established in 1806, Allegany County was part of the western frontier during early American history and saw waves of settlers moving westward after the American Revolution. The county’s history includes Native American heritage, frontier settlements, and an economy that evolved from agriculture and timber to include industries like oil production. Today, Allegany County is known for its scenic landscapes, historical landmarks, and close-knit communities that celebrate their rich heritage.
Origins and Key Historical Events
Indigenous Peoples and Early Settlement
Before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Allegany County was inhabited by the Seneca, part of the Iroquois Confederacy. The Seneca people had established villages, hunting grounds, and trade routes across the region. They used the Genesee River, which flows through Allegany County, as an important transportation and trade route. The Seneca maintained a vibrant culture and economy based on agriculture, hunting, and gathering.
The Revolutionary War disrupted life for the Seneca people, as the conflict resulted in the displacement of many Native American tribes in New York. In the late 18th century, following the Treaty of Big Tree in 1797, which ceded much of the land in western New York to the United States, white settlers began to move into Allegany County. These settlers were primarily of English, Irish, and Scottish descent, and they were drawn by the region’s fertile land and abundant timber resources.
Founding of Allegany County (1806)
Allegany County was officially established in 1806, formed from parts of Genesee County as more settlers arrived in western New York. The county’s name, derived from the Allegany (or Allegheny) River, reflects its connection to the region’s waterways and natural landscapes. Initially, Angelica served as the county seat due to its central location and status as one of the first towns established in the county.
The early economy of Allegany County was based on agriculture and timber. Farmers grew crops such as wheat, oats, and corn, and the region’s dense forests provided ample timber for logging and building materials. Small settlements and towns sprang up around farming communities, and infrastructure such as roads and bridges was built to connect towns and facilitate trade.
The Erie Canal and Population Growth
The completion of the Erie Canal in 1825 spurred economic growth throughout New York State, including Allegany County. Although Allegany County itself was not directly on the canal, the canal’s impact on New York’s economy brought new settlers, trade opportunities, and infrastructure improvements to the region. As more people moved into western New York, Allegany County’s towns grew, and farming became more prosperous.
During this period, the county seat moved from Angelica to Belmont in 1859 to accommodate the needs of the growing county. Belmont, located on the Genesee River, became a hub for local government and commerce, helping to foster the development of surrounding communities.
The Oil Boom of the 1860s
One of the most significant economic developments in Allegany County was the discovery of oil in the 1860s. Following discoveries in nearby Pennsylvania, oil was found in the town of Bolivar, leading to an oil boom that transformed the county’s economy. Oil wells and derricks sprang up across Allegany County, especially in the towns of Bolivar and Richburg, which quickly became known as “Little Bradford” due to their rapid growth and resemblance to the oil towns in Pennsylvania.
The oil industry brought wealth and new residents to the county, and local businesses flourished to support the booming economy. The impact of the oil boom lasted for decades, as Allegany County became one of the leading oil-producing areas in New York. Although the oil reserves eventually declined, the industry left a lasting mark on the county’s history and economy.
The Civil War Era and Local Contributions
During the Civil War, Allegany County residents supported the Union cause, with many men enlisting to fight in various New York regiments. The war had a significant impact on the county, as families sent their sons to fight, and communities rallied to support the war effort. The town of Belmont was a center of recruitment, and local organizations raised funds to aid soldiers and their families.
After the war, Allegany County saw veterans returning home with new perspectives and experiences that contributed to the development of local communities. Monuments and memorials honoring Civil War soldiers can still be found in various towns, reflecting the county’s dedication to remembering the contributions of its residents during the conflict.
The Growth of Education and Industry
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Allegany County diversified its economy, adding small-scale manufacturing and educational institutions to its agricultural base. Alfred University, founded in 1836, and the State University of New York College of Technology at Alfred, established in 1908, became prominent educational institutions in the county. These schools attracted students from across the state and beyond, contributing to the local economy and fostering an educated workforce.
Allegany County’s manufacturing sector grew with companies producing goods such as glass, ceramics, and machinery. Towns like Wellsville became centers for industry, with factories providing jobs and supporting the county’s economy. Wellsville’s connection to the railroad further boosted its growth, allowing goods to be transported efficiently throughout the region.
The Decline of Industry and Modern Allegany County
As the 20th century progressed, Allegany County, like many rural areas, faced economic challenges as the oil industry declined and manufacturing moved elsewhere. The Great Depression brought additional hardship, leading to job losses and economic strain for residents. Despite these challenges, the county remained resilient, and efforts to diversify the economy continued.
In recent decades, Allegany County has focused on tourism, education, and small businesses as economic drivers. The county’s scenic landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor recreation opportunities attract visitors, while Alfred University and SUNY Alfred remain important institutions. Today, Allegany County balances its historical heritage with modern developments, creating a vibrant community that values its past while looking to the future.
Historical Sites in Allegany County
1. Hagadorn House
Overview: The Hagadorn House, located in Almond, is a preserved 19th-century home that serves as a museum showcasing life in early Allegany County. The museum features period furniture, artifacts, and exhibits on local history, including early farming practices and domestic life. The Hagadorn House is managed by the Almond Historical Society and offers visitors a glimpse into the county’s pioneer heritage.
Location: 7 Main St., Almond, NY
Ticket Price: Free entry; donations encouraged.
Parking Information: Free street parking available nearby.
2. Pioneer Oil Museum of New York
Overview: Located in Bolivar, the Pioneer Oil Museum celebrates the history of oil production in Allegany County. The museum includes exhibits on the county’s oil boom, drilling equipment, and memorabilia from the height of the oil industry. Visitors can see historic oil derricks and equipment, as well as displays that illustrate the impact of the oil industry on the region’s economy and culture.
Location: 417 Main St., Bolivar, NY
Ticket Price: Free entry; donations encouraged.
Parking Information: Free parking available on-site.
3. Genesee Valley Greenway State Park
Overview: The Genesee Valley Greenway is a 90-mile trail that follows the route of the former Genesee Valley Canal and railroad. The trail offers scenic views of the Genesee River and is ideal for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing. In Allegany County, the trail passes through several towns, allowing visitors to explore both the natural beauty and historical significance of the area.
Location: Multiple access points; Allegany County sections near Belfast and Caneadea.
Ticket Price: Free entry.
Parking Information: Parking available at trailheads.
4. Allegany County Courthouse
Overview: Built in 1892, the Allegany County Courthouse in Belmont is a historic landmark featuring Romanesque Revival architecture. The courthouse remains an active government building and is an architectural treasure in the county. Visitors can view the building’s exterior and appreciate its design, which reflects the pride and civic values of the county’s residents.
Location: 7 Court St., Belmont, NY
Ticket Price: Free to view exterior; interior access limited.
Parking Information: Free on-site parking available.
5. Cuba Cheese Museum
Overview: The Cuba Cheese Museum in Cuba, NY, highlights the history of dairy farming and cheese production in Allegany County. Visitors can learn about the county’s role in New York’s dairy industry and see artifacts related to cheese-making. The museum is part of the Cuba Cheese Shoppe, where visitors can sample and purchase local cheeses.
Location: 53 Genesee St., Cuba, NY
Ticket Price: Free entry.
Parking Information: Free parking available on-site.
6. Alfred Ceramic Art Museum
Overview: Located at Alfred University, the Alfred Ceramic Art Museum showcases ceramic art from around the world, with a focus on contemporary ceramics and the university’s rich history in ceramics education. The museum’s collection includes works by notable artists and offers rotating exhibitions that celebrate the art and science of ceramics.
Location: 2 Pine St., Alfred, NY
Ticket Price: $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, free for students and children.
Parking Information: Paid parking available on campus.
County Facts
Geography and Climate
Allegany County is located in the southwestern part of New York State, characterized by its rolling hills, valleys, and waterways, including the Genesee River. The county’s landscape is part of the Appalachian Plateau, providing scenic vistas and outdoor recreational opportunities. Allegany County has a humid continental climate, with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. This seasonal variation supports diverse ecosystems, making the county a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
Quick Facts
- Year Founded: 1806
- County Seat: Belmont
- Population: Approximately 47,000
- Population Density: About 48 people per square mile
- Largest Cities: Wellsville, Alfred, Cuba
- Major Highways: Interstate 86, U.S. Route 19, New York State Route 17
- Adjacent Counties: Livingston County (north), Steuben County (east), Potter County, Pennsylvania (south), McKean County, Pennsylvania (southwest), Cattaraugus County (west), Wyoming County (northwest)