Fenton History Center, Jamestown

This 1863 Italian villa-style mansion was once the home of Reuben Fenton, the governor of New York from 1865-1869. It was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. The mansion houses exhibits which focus on Jamestown area history. A 5,000-volume reference library focuses on area and Chautauqua County history. There is also an exhibit on the actress Lucille Ball, who grew up in nearby Celoron. Special programs and guided tours of the museum are offered throughout the year. They have volunteer genealogy researchers that can assist you in family history research. - Christine A. Smyczynski