Attractions in Jamestown, New York

Once called the "Furniture Capital of the World" because it was a center for furniture manufacturing, Jamestown is located in the westernmost part of the state on the southern tip of Chautauqua Lake and has a large population of Swedish and Italian ancestry. Settled by James Prendergast in 1808, Jamestown offers historic landmarks, nature museums and is a mecca for Lucile Ball fans as the comedian's hometown with her own museum of memories. The city also has an Historic Downtown District from the 1870's called Thurston Block where stately homes can be seen. One is a bed and breakfast.

Types

There are a number of different types of attractions in Jamestown that will interest visitors and include entertainment to architectural to nature and ecology. For example, the Roger Tory Peterson Institute of Natural History promotes the study of nature and houses an outstanding collection of exhibits and art that focuses on birds and their surroundings. The Jamestown Ice Arena is the home of sporting events and concerts. The Robert H. Jackson Center houses the works and history of the chief prosecutor of the surviving Nazi leaders at Nuremberg, Germany. The Reg Lenna Civic Center is an entertainment venue for concerts and movies.

Features

For history buffs, the Fenton History Center and Museum on Washington Street offers an insight into the settlement and development of Jamestown and Chautauqua County. It contains exhibits and artifacts of the city and includes the Reuben E. Fenton Mansion, former Governor of New York, and provides resources for research, archives and library and educational references. On the other spectrum, visitors who enjoy television legends can visit the Lucy-Desi Museum on Pine Street. Although small, it features costumes, props, photos and other memorabilia from the television show and her life. Visitors can also drive by her former homes and visit her grave site. Another historic attraction includes the Busti Grist Mill & Historical Society Museum.

Time Frame

The landmarks and attractions of Jamestown encompass a time frame of about 300 years from the beginnings of its settlement to the present day. Visitors will appreciate the impact of European immigrants who settled here who were skilled craftsmen and played important roles in the city's commercial enterprises. The location of the city and its access to waterway transportation provided significant opportunities for wealth and success as shown in the historic time lapses of its museums and institutions.

Size

As a 19th century center for lumber and furniture making, Jamestown remains a small town with a population of just over 30,000 according to the 2003 census. As such, the number of major attractions is somewhat limited, but the ones that do exist offer a wealth of historic information, entertainment and education. From nature to architecture to sports, visitors will find points of interest to explore and admire.

Considerations

Considerations by visitors when to come to Jamestown to enjoy its attractions should be given during spring and fall, and especially during the Christmas holidays. Major events include the Luci-Desi Days in May, the Lucille Ball Birthday Celebration in August and the Busti Apple Festival in September. Also, during the Christmas season, many of the historic homes in the Thurston Block are decorated, along with a Christmas Parade. A community-wide light display include businesses and residents in downtown Jamestown decorate their storefronts, windows, and doors.

Resources

• Lucy-Desi Museum
• City of Jamestown: Fenton History Center
• Roger Tory Peterson Institute