Welcome to the History Corner!
Celebrating the rich history of Port Byron, New York, an old Erie Canal village in the Town of Mentz. This site is dedicated to the legacy and heritage of our community as well as a variety of regional historical tidbits. I hope you enjoy your visit and will stop by again.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Former Port Byron Stage Star Is Dead


The Cayuga Chief  Weedsport, NY Friday February 14, 1941

The funeral of Mrs. Lewis Henderson, formerly of Port Byron, who died Sunday at her home in Newburgh, was held Wednesday from the home of her sister, Mrs. Mertie Brown, in Port Byron, with the Rev. ? Burial will be in Mount Pleasant cemetery, Port Byron.  Mrs. Henderson many years ago was one of the prominent actresses of the country, having her own dramatic company in a repertoire of comedies and dramas. Her performances were enjoyed in the days of the old Academy of Music in Auburn, before erection of the Burtis Opera House, and later for many years in that theater. Her name was then Kittie Rhoades.

Man's Best Friend


The Ithacan, Ithaca, NY c. 1868

Cayuga County

The Auburn News says that Mr. Milan McCarty, residing on the Port Byron road, owns a dog that is deserving of notice.  Mr. McCarty is a subscriber to the News and the paper is brought past his door by the Port Byron stage. On the arrival of the stage the dog takes his position by the roadside, catches the paper in his mouth and delivers it safely at the house.  If the driver omits to hand the dog his paper, he will follow the stage for a long distance, and attest his displeasure by frequent barks.