Thursday, May 7, 2026 | 7PM
The design of the Village of Westfield today can be credited to James McClurg, a pioneer settler who situated his homestead in what would become the center of the village. McClurg is responsible for relocating the settlement to the east side of Chautauqua Creek and building up the business district by erecting a block of storefronts and a luxury hotel. He donated the village “commons,” adjoining parcels for two churches, and he invested in early mills.
But little is known about McClurg or his family, even though his descendants were involved in real estate, railroads, and silver mines across the Midwest, and are credited with establishing a national park!
Research by Michelle Henry has uncovered the McClurg family’s involvement in national movements and multi-million dollar corporations, all while maintaining relatively reclusive lives in Westfield. Henry will give this fascinating talk and entertain questions and answers.
Appointed the Chautauqua County Historian in March 2000, Henry also served as the County’s Record Management Coordinator until she retired from both positions in January 2023. She is currently Research Historian with the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.
Part of Here & There – Chautauqua County History, Travelers, & Memories
Admission is FREE, although donations are gratefully accepted
