Ellicottville Town Bicentennial Wrap-Up
Ellicottville Town Bicentennial Wrap-Up
It takes a whole community to put something like this together including individuals, businesses, local government and other civic organizations such as the American Legion. It's heartening to have witnessed all the many people willing to do so. We not only commemorated and honored Ellicottville's history but continue to make it a great place to live. History is a strong foundation and efforts like this from engaged citizens help build a community, making it a strong and vital place to live and work.
One of the bicentennial committee members, Bill O’Brien, noted that according to his rain gauge, we had four inches of rain over the weekend. Bill felt it was a test of the tenacity of those who chose to celebrate the bicentennial no matter what and believes the early pioneers of the town would be well-pleased. Similar sentiments were echoed on social media: "I love the fact that a little rain is not going to keep this community from celebrating.” "Great to see everyone come together to make it happen.” "Great job of planning such a historic event … with the COVID pause last year the group worked together to keep the momentum going for 2 years.” "Super job organizing the fabulous Celebration Event conducted very well under difficult conditions."
All of this is a true testament to the dedication, hard work and can-do attitude of everyone involved. The project was a much longer time commitment than anyone initially anticipated and many things happened beyond our control. Whatever time you were able to give, whatever part you were able to play, please know how grateful I am for each of you. Despite the weather, everyone who participated in the weekend’s events had a marvelous time. Witnessing that warmed the heart. Every celebration like this reflects the unique spirit of the community itself and Ellicottville has a spirit like no other!
Dawn Westfall,
Ellicottville Historical Society