Why Not New York? The Road to the Vote

New Yorkers played a pivotal role in the struggle for women’s suffrage and equal rights beginning in 1848 in Seneca Falls through the ratification of the 19th Amendment in 1920. November 2017 marks the Centennial of New York State granting women the right to vote. Celebrate New York State’s triumph.

Why Not New York? The Road to the Vote addresses the struggle for equal rights in the 19th and 20th century, and the significant role that Chautauqua County citizens played in the movement for women’s suffrage.

This exhibit debuted the evening of June 14, 2017 and will stay on display until September 30, 2017.

Pictured above: Fenton Family Parlor

The Fenton History Center also features elegant period rooms, the most notable of which, is the Fenton Drawing Room. Recreated in 1989, it exhibits some of the museums finest artifacts and is the perfect example of Victorian décor. The museum features a number of permanent and rotating exhibits.

Some of the museum’s permanent features include: 

• • Chautauqua Lake Room
  • Civil War Room
  • Evolution of Children’s Toys (Exhibit)
  • Homespun Era (Cellar Dedication)
  • Interactive History of Jamestown, New York (Display)
  • Interactive Political Career of Reuben E. Fenton (1819-1895)
  • Fenton Dining Room 
  • Fenton Family Parlor 
  • Jamestown, New York: Industrialization (Stairway Dedication)
  • Lookout Tower 
  • Lucille Ball: Not the Girl Next Door (Room Dedication)
  • Mourning 1800’s-1900’s (Corridor Dedication)
  • Nanny and Children’s Room
  • Swedish Room
  • Victorian Vestibule 

Summer 2017 Specially Featured Exhibit: Over There: WWI and Jamestown

After receiving news that the United States Congress had declared war on April 6, 1917, the City of Jamestown sprang into action. From its school children to its factories, bankers, and laborers to its City leaders – everyone did their bit. The Over There: WWI and Jamestown exhibit takes an intimate look at how WWI impacted the City of Jamestown specifically and gives a brief overview of what drove America to war after its initial reluctancy.

Over There: WWI and Jamestown features uniforms, American Legion history, letters sent from the battlefield (along with the soldier’s personal effects), artifacts from the War and many local references to Jamestown’ activities and people. The official dedication of this exhibit took place on April 5 at 6 PM on the eve of 100th anniversary of the day that the United States officially entered WWI and will stay on display until September 23^rd.

Learn more about the Fenton History Center below:

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Fenton Mansion, located at 67 Washington Street in Jamestown, New York, is a landmark, lending distinction and elegance to the passing scene. In its continuing mission as the center for education and preservation of a unique local heritage, it is a valuable cultural institution in the city of Jamestown, New York. 

In addition to housing an impressive museum within the family home of Reuben E. Fenton (1819-1885), U.S. Congressman (1853-1864), New York State Governor (1864-1869) and U.S. Senator (1869-1875), the Fenton History Center owns and operates a full functioning research center, located  73 Forest Avenue in the historic Hall House.

The Hall House is situated adjacently from the Fenton Mansion and is accessible by a private redbrick walkway. A private parking lot is available at both locations. 

Tours

The Fenton History Center welcomes bus tours and guided tours by appointment (716) 664-6256. However, walk-in visitors are invited to take a self-guided tour of the museum at any time during operational hours, Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 4 PM. 

Visitors touring the museum on their own are provided with an informative booklet and a brief overview of the museum prior to their tour. A full selection of books; pieces reminiscent of the Victorian era; mementos of the Fenton Mansion, Jamestown, New York and Chautauqua Lake; keepsakes; and a number of handcrafted items are available for sale within the museum gift shop. 

Educational Programming

Educational programming is available for businesses, civic groups, private and public students and families. Offerings are available within the historic Fenton Mansion and through the Fenton History Center’s Moving Museum.  Please contact the Education Director Jennifer Champ to schedule a guided tour or program by phone (716) 664-6256 or by email