Bicentennial

Orleans County was incorporated on April 15, 1825 and will be celebrating their bicentennial throughout 2025. 

A bicentennial committee has been meeting to brainstorm and implement a variety of ways to commemorate this historic anniversary.

Through the efforts of Robert Batt, the executive director of the Orleans Cornell Cooperative Extension, a fiberglass oxen was purchased that will be painted by artist Stacey Kirby Steward during fair week, July 22-27, 2024 featuring an agriculture theme.

The "bicentennial mascot", to be officially named on Saturday, July 27, will be on display at the fairgrounds and serve as a reminder of the county’s pioneer days. The oxen was critical for the fledgling county, pulling wagons across rough terrain, helping to clear trees, dig the Erie Canal and provide the muscle for taming the land. 

The bicentennial committee is encouraging Orleans County municipalities, businesses and organizations to sponsor an oxen to be a part of a public arts project around the county in 2025. Read more on the Orleans Hub.

View the artist's progress...