LEGISLATIVE RESOLUTION commemorating the 200th Anniversary of the Town
of Bainbridge name change from Jericho to Bainbridge

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to honor and commem-
orate the distinguished histories and milestones of communities across
this great Empire State; and
WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-
standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to commem-
orate the 200th Anniversary of the Town of Bainbridge name change, to be
celebrated with an all town picnic on Sunday, June 1, 2014, in Bain-
bridge, New York; and
WHEREAS, The Town of Bainbridge in Chenango County, established in
1786, was originally known as Jericho, New York; and
WHEREAS, In 1814, a partially built meeting house was engulfed with
flames and burned to the ground under mysterious circumstances; rumors
began to travel and the Town of Jericho acquired a dubious reputation;
and
WHEREAS, One of Jericho's merchants, while on a trip to the Hudson
Valley, was asked the name of his hometown; when he answered Jericho,
the people exclaimed, "Oh, that wicked place where they burned the
church"; and
WHEREAS, Upon his return home, the merchant, unhappy with they way
people reacted when he mentioned Jericho, began his quest to change the
name of his hometown; he drew up the papers and his idea was taken seri-
ously by the town residents; and
WHEREAS, Desiring to display their ardent patriotism, the residents
chose to rename their town after Commodore William Bainbridge, a naval
hero during the War of 1812; this esteemed man had captained the USS
CONSTITUTION and won a major victory against the British; and
WHEREAS, On April 15, 1814, the New York State Legislature officially
recognized and honored the new Town of Bainbridge, New York; and
WHEREAS, The Bainbridge community prospered under its new name, build-
ing a dam to utilize water power for local mills including a furniture
factory, tanning operation and various other businesses; and
WHEREAS, Remaining fruitful over the decades of growth and change, the
Town of Bainbridge continues its commitment to enhancing the quality of
life of its citizens, ensuring a positive business, institutional and
educational climate, and providing all essential services; now, there-
fore, be it
RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 200th Anniversary of the Town of Bainbridge name change
from Jericho to Bainbridge, recognizing the significance of the role it
continues to play in the life of the community of the State of New York;
and be it further
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be tran-
smitted to the Town of Bainbridge.