Branchport, New York facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Branchport
|
|
|---|---|
 Branchport
Location in New York
|
|
| Country | United States |
| State | New York |
| County | Yates |
| Town | Jerusalem |
| Elevation | 740 ft (226 m) |
| Time zone | UTC-5 (Eastern (EST)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-4 (EDT) |
| ZIP code |
14418
|
| Area code(s) | 315 |
Branchport is a small community known as a hamlet in Yates County, New York. It's part of the town of Jerusalem. Branchport is a "crossroads community" with about 85 homes. It also has a few stores, two churches, a library, and a fire station.
The name "Branchport" comes from its special location. It sits at the northern end of the west branch of Keuka Lake. Keuka Lake has a unique Y-shape. It is one of the famous Finger Lakes. These are long, narrow lakes found in Western Central New York State.
Contents
History of Branchport
Branchport is located in an area called the Beddoe Tract. This land was part of the Phelps and Gorham Purchase. Around 1791, the first settlers arrived just north of Branchport. They were followers of the Public Universal Friend, a well-known American speaker. They named their new home "The New Jerusalem."
How Branchport Grew
In 1831, the first store was built at the main crossroads. The community of Branchport began to grow around this store. It was first called Esperanza, which means "hope." Later, the name changed to Branchport.
In 1867, Branchport officially became an incorporated village. This meant it had its own local government. However, the village government later decided to stop operating. So, Branchport is no longer an incorporated village.
Transportation and Industry
Branchport became a very important port for steamboats. These boats traveled on Keuka Lake from 1835 to 1922. They carried both people and farm products. Branchport was also the end point for an electric trolley line. This line connected Branchport to Penn Yan and Keuka Park. The trolley ran from 1913 to 1928. It helped people and goods move around the area.
In the past, Branchport had several small factories. These included a basket factory, a metal foundry, and a planing mill. As transportation improved, bigger towns became centers for industry. Branchport then became mostly a place where people live. Today, it still serves summer lake visitors and tourists. Farmers in the area mainly grow grapes.
Fun Places to Visit Near Branchport
- Keuka College — This is an independent college located three miles east of Branchport. It offers four-year programs for students.
- Keuka Lake State Park — You can find this park one mile east of Branchport. It's a great place for swimming, picnics, and playing. You can also go hiking, fishing, or enjoy winter sports like cross-country skiing. The park has a boat launch and a campground.
- The Keuka Lake Winery Tour — This is a self-guided tour of wineries around Keuka Lake. The tour passes through Branchport. Hunt Country Vineyards is one of the stops on this tour.
- Stone Schoolhouse — This building was constructed in 1868. It was a two-room school for the Branchport area. Today, it holds the offices for the town of Jerusalem. It also has historical displays and records you can explore.
- Verdi Burtch Bird Refuge — This wildlife area is on the eastern edge of Branchport, along Sugar Creek. It's a marshland with a special platform for watching birds. You can also find a public fishing area and a boat launch here.
- Historic Homes — Several old houses in the area are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These include the Larzelere Tavern, Solomon Weaver House, Myron Weaver House, and Dr. James Wrightman House.
