The Center of Action

When people think of Port Byron, NY, they easily find reference to our Erie Canal History.  What most people are not aware of is that Port Byron was also the meeting place for many political conventions.

On October 15, 1856 at 2 PM the 25th Congressional District Convention was held here for the purpose of nominating a candidate for representation in Congress.

The committee consisted of:

N. Drake
C. D. Lawton
Wm Bell Jr
C.H. Richmond
Wm Fosgate

Early Preachers

In Port Byron's early history, it seems many lifestyles were ahead of the times.  I recently found an article from the 1850's, where one of our woman had completed clergy training.  When you look at the role of woman for this time period, most were not employed especially outside their own households or the business of their husbands.  It is always a pleasure to be reminded that things were just a bit different here:

"Mrs. Linda Jenkins of Port Byron, N.Y. has commenced preaching, after a regular course of study, and is now fully entitled to the appellation of "Reverend." 

Herkimer Co. Journal, Little Falls, NY August 13, 1857

A Look Back At Wages

In a hustle bustle world, it is easy to feel undervalued.  Bringing home the bacon continues to be a challenge and when you look back at labor rates from yesteryear, it is easy to see how much has changed.  Here is an ad that appeared in The Daily Courier on Friday October 1, 1875 from Syracuse, NY:

"Fifty laborers wanted to work in the village of Port Byron, NY.  Wages one dollar and fifty cents per day.  Apply at No. 5 Pike Building or on the work.  H. Candee & Co."

This would have the same purchase power as $30.20 per day as of 2009.