New signs detail local history

MONTOUR FALLS--Dozens of area residents, including Montour Falls Mayor Jim Ryan, Schuyler County legislators and former Montour Falls Mayor John King gathered during a brief respite of nice weather Friday, Oct. 9 to see the unveiling of two new historical markers set up in the village of Montour Falls.
With one marker for the Montour House and the other at the spot where a canal bridge used to reside on Main Street, the two markers contain information about why each site is important.
"Both sites are an important part for the village here," said Gary Emerson, Schuyler County Historian and member of the Schuyler County Historical Society Board of Trustees. "It's a landmark village and the canal was an important part of why this village came about. It was a canal town for many many years and I think it is good that the community knows something about its history and buildings can't speak for themselves."
Emerson said the markers were funded by the Pomeroy Foundation through a grant application sponsored by the historical society.
"I think it is great, it's a wonderful thing not only for our community but also that the history of our community will be honored," said Montour Falls Mayor Jim Ryan. "It's very important to preserve our history because I think it should pave our way to the future."
Looking ahead to the future, Emerson said he already has ideas for not only Montour Falls but for Watkins Glen as well.
"I am hoping to get more signs around as well," Emerson mentioned. "Several more. There is another canal bridge on South Street and the Opera House in Watkins Glen that I am hoping to get markers for both in the near future."
After Emerson unveiled each marker he gave a brief speech about each site.
"Looking at the Montour House you can see it is elevated compared to the buildings around it. The reason was flooding," Emerson told those in attendance.