About the Schuyler County Historical Society

Welcome to the Schuyler County Historical Society. We are located in Montour Falls, Schuyler County, New York, just south of Watkins Glen and Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes Region. The Society maintains three properties and is headquartered at the Brick Tavern Museum, a large brick Federal-style building built in 1828 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Brick Tavern Museum and the adjacent Wickham Rural Life Center have exhibits relating to Schuyler County’s rich history. Our collections include artifacts, books and documents concerning the county’s people and events, valuable to genealogists and researchers. The Lee School Museum, a one-room school on Route 14 south of the Brick Tavern Museum, also is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Our Mission

The Schuyler County Historical Society preserves our cultural and structural heritage by documenting and sharing our stories to inspire and engage current and future generations.

Our Vision for the Future

Schuyler County Historical Society will be the primary steward of our County’s history and heritage through interactive and engaging programs, exhibits, and services. We commit to this while continuing to place significant value on stewardship, respect, accessibility and accountability.

The Society will endeavor to:

  • Increase community awareness and involvement
  • Expand programs, special exhibits and research facilities
  • Strengthen financial security
  • Aim to excel in research, documentation and interpretation
  • Promote pride in our community and in individual’s heritage

Our Values & Objectives

Because decisions must be made in an ever-changing environment, it is important for the SCHS to be clear about the core principles and values that guide it. The following principles and objectives are the heart of the SCHS identity:

  • Holding historic assets as a public trust
  • Maintaining focus on Schuyler County history
  • Preservation and interpretation of meaningful collections
  • Openness to the public and accessibility to the handicapped
  • Dedication to teaching and learning
  • Enabling and promoting research
  • Providing “hands-on” experiences to visitors
  • Maintaining professional staff
  • Maintaining a volunteer opportunities
  • Maintaining a policy of inclusivity
  • Providing an affordable, educational and enjoyable visitor experience

Our Board

President
Barb Chapman
(2024 – 2026)

Secretary
Joyce Hill (2023 – 2025)

Vice President
Ennie Lattin
(2025 – 2027)

Treasurer
Eric Gerget (2024 – 2025)

Trustees

Kelly Povero (2025 – 2028)
Gary Emerson (2021 – 2024)
*Schuyler County Historian*
James Jensen (2024 – 2027)
Jane Leszyk (2023 – 2026)

Marcia Kasprzyk (2025 – 2028)
Martha Evans (2023 – 2026)
Kyle Colunio (2024 – 2027)
David Lisk (2023 – 2026)

Executive Director of Museums

Heather O’Grady Evans