Senate Resolution No. 2066

BY: Senator HELMING

COMMEMORATING the 50th Anniversary of the Genesee
Country Village & Museum

WHEREAS, It is the custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
pay tribute to those organizations of high purpose and worthy
accomplishment whose endeavors have faithfully served the welfare of the
citizens of the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Genesee Country Village &
Museum; and

WHEREAS, Genesee Country Village & Museum was founded in 1966 with
the goal of preserving the architecture of the Genesee Valley region in
a recreated historic village, providing context for the telling of New
York State and 19th-century American history; and

WHEREAS, Envisioned by John L. "Jack" Wehle, an avid outdoorsman and
president of the Genesee Brewing Company, the museum was established to
preserve the disappearing craftsmanship of regional carpenters, master
builders, and house wrights, while also providing a home for his
distinguished collection of sporting art; and

WHEREAS, Chartered as an educational institution by the New York
State Board of Regents, the museum has grown to encompass 600 acres and
now includes the Historic Village, the John L. Wehle Gallery, and the
Genesee Country Nature Center, offering interactive programs, engaging
exhibits, and special events that allow visitors to experience history
in meaningful and immersive ways; and

WHEREAS, Today, Genesee Country Village & Museum stands as the
largest and most comprehensive living history museum in New York State,
and the third-largest in the United States, featuring 68 historic
buildings, more than 20,000 artifacts, significant collections of
wildlife art, and vibrant living collections across its gardens, working
farm, and nature center; and

WHEREAS, Since opening to the public in 1976 in honor of the
nation's bicentennial, the museum has continued to expand and evolve,
thanks to the dedication of its leadership, including John L. "Ted"
Wehle Jr. and current President and CEO Becky Wehle, as well as
countless staff members, volunteers, and supporters who have preserved
and brought to life the rich heritage of the Genesee Valley region; and

WHEREAS, The success of Genesee Country Village & Museum is in
direct correlation to the efforts of its members, whose involvement is,
and always has been, characterized by an impressive commitment, an
unbridled enthusiasm, and an uncompromising standard of excellence in
all endeavors; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals and organizations of such noble aims and accomplishments are

brought to our attention, they should be celebrated and recognized by
all the citizens of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Genesee Country Village & Museum
and to honor its founders, leaders, and members, past and present, who
have labored so conscientiously to preserve history and enrich the
cultural life of the community; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Genesee Country Village & Museum.