Aurora, New York facts for kids
Aurora is the name of two different places in the U.S. state of New York. Both are small communities with interesting histories and beautiful locations.
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Aurora, Cayuga County
Aurora in Cayuga County is a charming village located on the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake. This lake is one of the famous Finger Lakes in central New York. The village is known for its beautiful scenery and historic buildings.
History of Aurora Village
The area where Aurora village now stands was first settled in the late 1700s. It was officially established as a village in 1837. The name "Aurora" comes from the Roman goddess of dawn, which sounds fitting for a place with such lovely sunrises over the lake!
Wells College
One of the most important parts of Aurora is Wells College. This private college for women was founded in 1868 by Henry Wells. He was a co-founder of the famous American Express company. Wells College has a beautiful campus right on the lake, and its historic buildings are a big part of the village's character.
Life in Aurora
Aurora is a small community, with only about 700 to 800 people living there. Despite its size, it attracts visitors who enjoy its quiet charm, historic architecture, and lakeside views. Many of the buildings in the village are part of the Aurora Village–Wells College Historic District, which means they are protected because of their historical importance.
Aurora, Erie County
Aurora in Erie County is a larger town located southeast of the city of Buffalo, New York. It's a suburban area that includes the villages of East Aurora and South Wales, and the hamlet of Jewettville.
Founding and Growth
The town of Aurora was first settled around 1803. It was officially formed in 1818 from parts of the town of Clarence. Like many towns in New York, it grew as people moved west and settled new lands.
East Aurora Village
The most well-known part of the town of Aurora is the village of East Aurora. This village is famous for being the home of the Roycrofters. The Roycrofters were a group of artists and craftspeople who lived and worked there in the late 1800s and early 1900s. They were part of the Arts and Crafts Movement, which focused on handmade items and simple, beautiful designs.
The Roycroft Campus
The Roycroft Campus in East Aurora is a National Historic Landmark. It includes many buildings where the Roycrofters created furniture, books, metalwork, and more. Today, you can visit the campus to learn about their history and see their beautiful work.
Population and Community
The town of Aurora is much larger than the village in Cayuga County, with a population of over 13,000 people. It's a busy community with schools, parks, and local businesses. It offers a mix of suburban living with a touch of historic charm, especially in East Aurora.
See also
In Spanish: Aurora (Nueva York) para niños
