Historian
The Town of Canisteo first settled on Christmas Day in 1789. The Erie railroad ran the first train through the Canisteo Valley on May 14, 1851. Following the railroad, industries sprung up along Depot Street offering employment to local workers.
With the growth of the community, the Village was incorporated in 1873. The New York & Pennsylvania railway connected the southwestern part of Steuben County, NY and Northern Potter County, PA to the Erie in 1895 which resulted in moving their headquarters to the Village in 1899 and repair shop in 1900.
As featured in Ripley's "Believe It or Not" as the "World's Largest Living Sign," the sign consists of 260 pine trees that spell out the name "C A N I S T E O." You can find this historic landmark on the hillside behind the elementary school on Greenwood Street in the Village of Canisteo. Designed and planted by Harry Smith and Ed Childs in 1933.
The historian's job is to record and research the local history of the town and the village of Canisteo.
For more information please feel free to reach out to:
Historian: Steve Cotton
Phone: 607-661-3515
Email: scottonhistory@gmail.com
Address: 9 East Main Street Canisteo, NY 14823
You can find additional information:
You know you're from Canisteo when
Canisteo Community Support Group
Kanestio Historical Society