East Gaines, New York facts for kids
East Gaines is a small community, often called a hamlet, located in the town of Gaines in Orleans County, New York, United States. A hamlet is like a very small village, usually without its own local government. This quiet place has a history tied to early settlers and important travel routes in New York State.
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East Gaines: A Glimpse into History
East Gaines played a small but important role in the development of Orleans County. Like many small settlements, it grew up around key services needed by people living in the area and those traveling through.
The Perry House: A Welcoming Stop
In 1826, a man named Peter Runion built the East Gaines Hotel. This building later became known as the Perry House. Back in the 1800s, hotels like this were super important. They weren't just places to sleep; they were community hubs. Travelers on long journeys needed places to rest, eat, and get supplies. The Perry House became a vital stop for settlers moving through the region.
Why Was the Perry House So Important?
The Perry House was especially important because of its location on Ridge Road. Ridge Road is a very old and historic pathway that stretches across Western New York. It was originally a natural ridge formed by ancient glaciers, and Native Americans used it for travel long before European settlers arrived. When settlers began moving west, Ridge Road became a major route for wagons and stagecoaches. Having a hotel like the Perry House along this busy road meant travelers had a safe and comfortable place to stop during their long journeys.
Life in East Gaines in the Late 1800s
By 1894, East Gaines was a small but active community. It had several important services that people living nearby would use regularly.
- Post Office: This was crucial for sending and receiving letters, connecting people to the outside world.
- Store: A general store would sell everything from food and tools to clothing, making it a central place for daily needs.
- Blacksmith Shop: Blacksmiths were very important in those days. They made and repaired metal tools, horse shoes, and wagon parts, which were essential for farming and transportation.
- Baptist Church: The church served as a spiritual center and often a gathering place for the community.
- Houses: There were about twelve to fifteen houses, showing it was a small, close-knit community.
These services show that East Gaines, though small, was a self-sufficient little hub for the people living in and around it during the late 19th century.
