Orleans County Celebrates 200 Years with Bicentennial Ceremony

Orleans County marked its 200th anniversary on April 15, 2025, with a ceremony at the historic courthouse in Albion. The celebration began at noon with the ringing of the courthouse dome bell, signaling the start of Orleans County’s bicentennial. Churches across the county joined in, their bells resonating with unity and spirit.

Pledge of Allegiance - John Fitzak and "Star-Spangled Banner" – Mackenzie Poynter

John Fitzak, Orleans County legislature, led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a stirring rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” performed by Medina High School student Mackenzie Poynter, which added a patriotic tone to the occasion.

Ceremonial Gavel – The Honorable Sanford A. Church

The ceremony then transitioned to its formal start, with Orleans County Court Judge Sanford A. Church, a descendant of Sanford E. Church, whose portrait hangs inside the courthouse, symbolically gaveling in the event. Judge Church used a ceremonial gavel carved from a walnut tree planted in 1856—an artifact rich in meaning and connection to the county’s past.

Remarks – Orleans County Legislature Chairman, Lynne Johnson

Orleans County Legislature Chairwoman Lynne Johnson took the podium to offer reflections on the county’s evolution and the legacy of leadership that has guided its progress. She highlighted the transition in 1980 from a Board of Supervisors to a seven-member County Legislature—a significant shift in government structure. Since its inception, she noted, the Legislature has maintained a semi-circular seating arrangement, symbolic of transparency and collaboration.

Johnson quoted Stan Dudek, the first chairman of the Legislature and later the county’s first chief administrative officer in 1982:

“That we all share equally in the rights, responsibilities and power vested in us as legislators; the side-by-side arrangement symbolic of our duty and desire to work together, with one common purpose—not to run, but to serve the County of Orleans; and facing the public, indicating our desire for clear and complete communication with the public we represent.”

Shifting focus to the county’s history, Johnson shared the story behind the ceremonial gavel, which was carved by Cary W. Lattin—the father of retired County Historian Bill Lattin—and presented to Dudek during the Legislature’s first meeting in 1980. “That means the wood from this gavel is almost as old as Orleans County itself,” Johnson said. “And just like this gavel, our county is as strong as ever.”

Proclamations

Next, the ceremony moved to recognition and celebration, as Johnson accepted several proclamations commemorating the county’s 200th anniversary. Andrew Dugan, district director for State Senate Minority Leader Rob Ortt, and Jayleen Carney, executive assistant for Assemblyman Steve Hawley, delivered a state legislative proclamation on behalf of the lawmakers, who were in Albany for budget negotiations.

The proclamation stated that Orleans County was formally established as a separate entity from Genesee County on Nov. 12, 1824, with official operations beginning on April 15, 1825. It also noted that the county’s name may honor either Andrew Jackson’s victory at the Battle of New Orleans or the French Duc d’Orléans—reflecting a compromise among early leaders. Additionally, the proclamation highlighted the critical impact of the Erie Canal, completed in 1825, calling it a “transformative force” in the county’s early development. The canal provided affordable transportation, fueling agricultural and economic growth across the region.

In a continued spirit of celebration, Johnson also received proclamations from the office of U.S. Rep. Claudia Tenney, the Orleans County Legislature, and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul’s office. The governor’s proclamation was presented by Brian Stratton, commissioner of the New York State Canal Corporation, who was joined by J.W. Cook, Hochul’s Finger Lakes regional representative. Stratton stated the continued importance of the Erie Canal, which also celebrates its bicentennial this year, affirming that the historic waterway will remain a valuable asset to Orleans County for generations to come.

Bicentennial Reflections – Catherine Cooper

Turning attention to the county’s rich history, the ceremony continued with reflections from Orleans County Historian Catherine Cooper, who honored the county’s pioneers and praised their resilience and vision. She paid tribute to those whose determination helped lay the foundation for today’s communities.

Historical Documentation – Sue Starkweather Miller

Sue Starkweather Miller, Village of Albion historian, followed with a focus on the importance of early documentation, emphasizing how personal accounts and preserved records provide vital insight into the county’s origins and growth.

Courthouse History – C. W. Lattin, Orleans County Historian Emeritus

Building on the historical theme, Bill Lattin, retired Orleans County historian, shared details about the courthouse itself, which was constructed in 1858 and completed $153 under budget. Still in use today, the building remains a testament to the craftsmanship and foresight of past generations.

The Erie Canal Bicentennial – Ken DeRoller

Ken DeRoller, a member of the New York State Canal Recreationway Commission and the Orleans County Bicentennial Committee, reflected on the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal and its impact over the past two centuries. He also highlighted several events and activities the New York State Canal Corporation has planned for 2025.

Presentation of the Bicentennial Painting – Carol Culhane

Carol Culhane presented a bicentennial painting that honors early pioneers who lived modestly in log cabins. The artwork depicts 1800s Main Street in Albion, a log cabin with livestock, and the County Courthouse and Clerks’ Building. A historical marker notes a log cabin once stood on the site, built by Albion’s first settlers in 1811. The late Al Capurso had the marker installed in 2013 to honor William McAllister and his wife.

Presentation of the Bicentennial Quilt – Tara Thom & Tom Rivers

Ken DeRoller, a member of the New York State Canal Recreationway Commission and the Orleans County Bicentennial Committee, reflected on the 200th anniversary of the Erie Canal and its impact over the past two centuries. He also highlighted several events and activities the New York State Canal Corporation has planned for 2025.

Commemorations - Lynne Menz

Lynne Menz, creative director for Orleans County Tourism, recognized the department's efforts to promote both the county and Erie Canal’s bicentennials, highlighting upcoming events and campaigns designed to celebrate local history and engage the community.

Orly the Ox, Orleans County’s bicentennial mascot, joined Menz for her speech. Orly carried weights down the aisle to represent the strength of oxen in early county development, handed out stickers, posed for selfies, promoted his feature in the county’s travel guide and finished with a spirited ribbon toss.

Benediction – The Reverend Marsha Rivers

As the ceremony came to a close, Mayor Bower returned to offer closing remarks, thanking all who made the celebration possible and encouraging continued collaboration as the county moves into its third century. The Rev. Marsha Rivers, of the Albion First Baptist Church, gave the benediction, blessing the people of Orleans County and their shared journey into the future. To mark the momentous occasion, Rivers concluded the event leading the group of attendees in singing  “God Bless America".