Message from the Historian

I have called Chester my home for the last 20 years and love to ride my bike through the town, seeing Chester’s past as well as present.  Chester has a vibrant history, evident from our role in both the Railroad and Dairy Industries.  As the birthplace of Cream Cheese (we have the evidence to prove that!), Chester has made its mark the world over!  History has always been my passion, understanding how it has influenced us as well as how we influence it is a subject matter that I highly value.  When the opportunity to be the Village Historian came along, I excitedly applied.  It is my hope that through significant effort, the citizens of Chester can gain a greater appreciation for their community’s heritage, identity and importance.

I am part of the Chester Union Free School District’s Maple Avenue Task Force, working towards a solution to that subject.  As well, I am good friends with the Orange County Historian, Johanna Porr, and have worked on several projects for her from archeological digs in Newburgh, designing permanent historical displays at the County Government Building and even being part of the Orange County Delegation to Belgium & France for the World War I Centennial.

I encourage everyone, be resident or visitor to please check out the local historic sites and read the many historical markers located all over the Village.  There is so much to see and know about Chester for people of all ages.  If there is anything you would like to know, send me a message!

The Village Historian has an Assistant!!

Hello Everyone, my name is Kevin Gomez Jr.  As a lifelong resident of the State of New York, I have always been fascinated with the history of New York and the experiences of those who helped build this great state and nation.  Through the Gardiner Foundation, I have been given the opportunity to intern with the Village of Chester Historian over the summer and as such I will be continuing my research through the lives and sites of those who lived in Chester, NY.  I am honored to be a part of this program and look forward to what's in store next!

Click HERE to read Kevin's Maple Avenue School report

Chester Historical Society Newsletters

September 2023 Newsletter
March 2023 Newsletter

Yelverton Inn

Across the street from Main Street Pizza are two notable large wooden buildings that are frequently passed as people go about their days. While businesses have come and gone in the area, these buildings have weathered the test of time quietly. Several notable events would occur on its grounds involving notable Americans of the Revolutionary War Era. Even before there was a United States, the Yelverton Inn has stood since 1765. In recognition of this long and distinguished historical significance, the building is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

Click HERE to learn more about the history of the Yelverton Inn in Chester, NY.