Standing proudly on Main Street in Penn Yan is the anchor building of the Yates County History Center, the Oliver House Museum, one of four buildings comprising the YCHC. The Center, formerly Yates County Genealogical & Historical Society, is one of the oldest in NYS, has been actively collecting, preserving and interpreting history since 1860. Continue reading about us...

Open Tuesday - Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
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An important part of our mission at the Yates County History Center is to inform the public about the history of Yates County through museum exhibits and hands-on programs.

Fund raisers are held throughout the year that are educational, fun and supportive of the Center's programs. To register or for more information regarding an event, please call 315.536.7318.

All of our programs are open to members and the general public. Check out what's going on at the History Center!

Calendar of Events

Now open!

Scherer Carriage House Reopening
We are excited to announce the reopening of our permanent Public Universal Friend exhibit, following its temporary closure for the expansion of museum space. On February 11 the exhibit became available to explore once again, offering visitors a deeper insight into this unique and historically significant figure.

   
Monday, September 8
9:00 a.m. registration
10:00 a.m. shotgun start
 
Golf Tournament: Tee Up for History
Support local heritage and enjoy a great day on the green!

Join us for the Golf Tournament: Tee Up for History, benefiting the Yates County History Center. Gather your foursome and head to Lakeside Country Club at 145 East Lake Road in Penn Yan for a fun-filled day in support of preserving our community’s rich past.

Foursomes who register for $420 will enjoy 18 holes of golf, cart, food, course contests, and player gift.

Show your support while gaining visibility—four sponsorship levels are available to fit every budget.

Whether you're a golfer, a history enthusiast, or a local business, this is your chance to make an impact while enjoying a beautiful day outdoors.

Click here for the registration form, deadline is August 30th.

Tee up and help us make history!

   

Saturday, September 13
2:00 p.m.

A Walk Through History Cemetery Tour - Benton Rural Cemetery

Join us for a fascinating afternoon as history comes to life at Benton Rural Cemetery. Walk among the gravestones and meet historical figures from the Revolutionary War era, portrayed by costumed interpreters who will share stories of their lives, struggles, and legacies.

 
   

Location
Havens Corners Road near North Flat Street, Benton

Parking
Off-site parking available at Benton Ridge Trusses with free shuttle service to the cemetery.

Admission
$10 per person or $20 per family

Rain Date
Saturday, September 20 at 2:00 p.m.

Don't miss this unique opportunity to connect with the past and honor those who helped shape our nation's early history. Perfect for history buffs, families, and anyone curious about local heritage!


 

YCHC events held virtually may be enjoyed on our Vimeo Channel.

The following list of lectures, interviews and portrayals are available:

 
 

Interviews

Phyllis Smith
Milly Bloomquist
Maxine Fullagar
Marge Cornell
Marcia Dugan
Ellen Salisbury
Doris Scherer
Corrie Stork
Carlotta Kirk Coriser
Ann Potter Boyd

Portrayals

Julie Sheppard
Susannah Clara Hatmaker
Myron Hamlin
Frankie Merson
John Thomas

Lectures

Free From the Fear
Veterans of Yates County
Outdoor Cooking, Part 1
Outdoor Cooking, Part 2
Immigrants Who Got the Job Done: Foreign Fighters in the American Revolution
Historic Mourning Customs

Colonial Crafts-Candle Dipping

Make Your Own Holiday Wreath
Colonial Crafts-Chair Caning

The Art of Canning Peaches

 

 
           
 

Open Tuesday - Friday 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
107 Chapel Street, Penn Yan, NY 14527
315.536.7318 | Email YCHC | Email Webmaster
Saturday, August 2, 2025 | Copyright © 2025

A community museum where every story matters!

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