On Saturday, May 21 a new historical marker was dedicated in Brockport at 36 Erie Street. The marker designates the location of the “Trolley Depot” building that was part of the Buffalo, Lockport and Rochester interurban railway system.
Chairing the proceedings was Allan Berry, President of the Brockport Community Museum (BCM). Mr. Berry spoke about the role of the Community Museum in promoting historical markers and creating interpretative panels that denote Brockport’s history.
Next on the program was Margay Blackman, Mayor of the Village of Brockport who elaborated on the rich history of Brockport and the numerous historical markers and panels that are located in and around the village. The markers and panels provide residents and visitors a tremendous amount of information with facts and timelines.
Following the mayor was Garrett Roe of the BCM who spearheaded the effort to secure funding for the marker from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation. Mr. Roe addressed the work of the Pomeroy Foundation in promoting and funding over 900 markers in New York State. The Foundation is now the leading funder of historical markers in our country.
Following Mr. Roe was Dr. Robert Westbrook, a BCM Trustee and former Professor of History at the University of Rochester. Dr. Westbrook spoke about the history of the Interurban Railway system and the role it played in our region and our country. From 1908 until its closure in 1931, the trolley in Brockport was vital to the residents. Many people commuted to work in Rochester via at the trolley and numerous students used the interurban as a vehicle to attend the Normal School. At one point the entire interurban transportation system was one of the largest employers in our country. The automobile eventually spelled the demise of the interurban system.
Mr. Berry concluded the remarks by thanking everyone in attendance for coming out for the event.
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