Most people in Jamestown today have never heard of Arthur Wellington Anderson—better known as A.W. Anderson. Yet for more than two decades, he served as City Historian, working tirelessly to preserve the story of this community through research, writing, and public speaking. As we mark the 150th anniversary of his birth this year, it’s the perfect time not only to share his remarkable story but also to correct a longstanding oversight: Anderson lies in an unmarked grave in Lake View Cemetery. We are now raising funds to finally provide him with a proper marker.
Anderson’s early life remains something of a mystery. Born in Richmond, Maine, on October 6, 1875, he lived and worked in New England and Maryland, holding various jobs as a warp dresser, photographer, and writer. He was married, and appears to have traveled widely—including to Kentucky—before arriving in Jamestown. While the reasons for his move here remain unknown, by late 1922 he had made Jamestown his home. Research is still ongoing to uncover more about his earlier life.
Once in Jamestown, Anderson quickly immersed himself in civic life. He established an advertising agency and spoke at local clubs. He also became a committed and controversial figure in the prohibition movement, co-founding the Jamestown Law and Order League and speaking out against bootlegging. His activism had real consequences; in one instance, he was assaulted in what appeared to be a targeted attack related to his efforts.
But it was his passion for history that ultimately defined his time here. He championed the celebration of Jamestown’s centennial in 1927, helped place the city’s first historical markers, and authored the first guidebook describing them. He gave countless talks on local history and played a key role in integrating local history into school curricula. His historical sketches appeared in the newspaper, and he authored several works—including Conquest of Chautauqua (1932), still used as a resource today.
Despite all of this, Anderson never achieved financial security. He served for years without pay, eventually receiving a small city stipend in the 1940s. In 1937, he filed for bankruptcy. He died in poverty in 1949 at the age of 74 and was buried in an unmarked grave.
We are working to change that. I’ll be giving a presentation on Anderson’s life and the continuing research into his past at the Chautauqua County History Expo on Saturday, August 23, and again during the Fenton’s lecture series on Tuesday, September 10 at 7:00 p.m. These talks are not only a chance to learn about an extraordinary local figure—but also an invitation to help preserve his memory.
To donate to the gravestone fund, visit fentonhistorycenter.org/donate, and make a note that is is for Anderson, or mail or deliver a check to the Fenton History Center.
