Research enables grant for historic marker

Did you know that the Bullis Collection holds many  publications of our state and local governments? On May 31 we attended the unveiling of this historic marker made possible in part by researching the Bullis Collection.  The photo on the left is retired railroad engineer, H.P. Zerbe, who actually operated the train on this route between Stanley and Sodus Point.  Much of the necessary documentation for the historic marker was provided by materials in the Bullis Room for Tim Wilbur, President of Ontario Pathways, who applied for the grant.  A fellow railroad lover, Dr. Robert Ward had previously done research in the Bullis Room and shared with Mr. Wilbur about the rich railroad resources there. The William G. Pomeroy Foundation provided the grant for the marker.  It is the Foundation's belief "that historic markers play an important role in local historic preservation by serving a dual purpose. They educate the public and foster historic tourism, which in turn can provide economic benefits to the town and villages where the markers are placed." - from Mr. Wilbur's Press Release for marker unveiling.  The Ontario Pathways trailhead is located on Rt.96 between State Route 488 and Rt.8.  This is a repurposing of the railroad track bed into a trail pathway -creating a multi-use rails-to-trails pathway.  Ontario Pathways, Inc. is a non profit organization that owns and maintains 23 miles of rail-trail in Ontario County NY.  Their mission is to create and maintain a network of walking trails that residents and visitors can enjoy year-round. Volunteers work hard to maintain trails, repair bridges and trim brush to keep trails open for visitors. Part of the Rails to Trails Conservancy, Ontario Pathways gives the public free access to beautiful nature trails that stretch from Canandaigua to Phelps. You will find contact and events information on Facebook.