Local History

Local History Room Resources

Local History RoomThe David A. Howe Public Library holds materials to help you in your search for information about our area. We have not listed all possible sources here, but what follows is a list of commonly used local history resources.

Books

Local history and reference books do not circulate.

A selective list of often used books:

  • Allegany and its People, 1795 –1895.  This is an excellent centennial history by John Minard.  Name index is available separately.
  • Atlas of Allegany County.  It was published by Beers in 1869.  It shows property owners.
  • Business directories for Wellsville and Allegany County list occupations and addresses. Broken files 1900 – 1960.
  • DAR Patriot Index and Lineage Books.
  • Doty, Lockwood.  History of the Genesee Country, 1925 gives history and biographical information.
  • French, J.H. Gazetteer of the State of New York, 1861.  The names are mostly in the footnotes.
  • Guide to Historical Resources in Allegany County New York Repositories.  New York Historical Resource Center, 1980.  This is a subject index to resources held by libraries and historical societies.
  • History of Allegany County.  It was published by Beers in 1879.   It is arranged by towns.  There is a separate index that lists family names.

STARCat Online Catalog

Search the STARCat online catalog by author, title or subject for books, pamphlets, newspapers and a variety of other materials.

Suggested subject searches include:

  • Allegany County
  • Wellsville
  • Newspapers Allegany County
  • Census
  • Use KEYWORD to search for family names.

Microfilm Resources

A microfilm scanner and reader/printer are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Highlights of the library’s microfilm holdings include:

  • Wellsville Daily Reporter, 1880 – Current
  • Allegany County Census, 1810 – 1880
  • Wellsville Free Press, 1867 – 1870

View the library’s historical newspaper online archive

Local History Pamphlet Files

Ask at the main desk for materials from our local history pamphlet files. Subject highlights include:

  • Allegany County Railroads
  • Wellsville Pictures
  • Information about the Pink House and other noted architectural gems

Allegany County Historical Society

The historical society is now located at 11 East Greenwood Street, Andover , NY. Its volunteers assist with genealogy questions and staff the research center and offices, which include historical and genealogical artifacts, manuscripts, and information relating to Allegany County communities and residents.

Mailing Address: P.O. Box 252, Andover, NY 14806
Contact the Allegany County Historical Society

or alleganychs@gmail.com

Updated: October 9, 2018 — 5:08 pm