Senate Resolution No. 5185

BY: Senator YOUNG

COMMEMORATING the 125th Anniversary of the Village
of Lakewood

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to recognize
events of significance which exemplify the history and development of
the State of New York; each city, town, village and hamlet within the
borders of our great Empire State proudly resonates with rich and noble
history; and

WHEREAS, It is also custom of this Legislative Body to recognize and
commemorate the anniversaries of the founding of municipalities
throughout the State, noting in turn their contributions to the fabric
and progression of 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
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the Village of Lakewood; and

WHEREAS, The Village of Lakewood was incorporated on May 9, 1893,
and was originally served by 16 Presidents, the first was Fred A.
Bentley; in 1927, they were renamed to Mayor, and there have been 14
through the current Mayor, Cara Birrittieri; and

WHEREAS, In the early days, Lakewood was accessible by the Erie
Railroad and the Chautauqua Traction Company (Street Cars); and

WHEREAS, Lakewood's history began as a popular summer resort when
steamboats traveled Chautauqua Lake; a few elegant hotels that dotted
the shoreline included: The Sterlingworth, The Lakewood Country Club,
The Lakeview Hotel and The Kent House I and The Kent House II; and

WHEREAS, In 1912, the Packard Mansion overlooking Chautauqua Lake
was built by J.W. & Elizabeth Packard of the Packard Motor Car fame;
sailing and boating were popular activities beginning with the Chadakoin
Boat Club, which later became the Chautauqua Lake Yacht Club (C.L.Y.C.)
in the 1930s; to this day, the C.L.Y.C. continues to host the National
Sailing Regattas; and

WHEREAS, With the construction of the Chautauqua Mall in 1970, this
was the beginning of Lakewood becoming a commercial hub for Chautauqua
County; Lakewood has also had its share of Light Industry which today
includes Matco Tools, internationally known for its superior tool boxes;
and

WHEREAS, In Lakewood's 125 year history, the one constant has been
water recreational activities, and Chautauqua Avenue has served as the
hub for community events and commercial enterprises; Lakewood has been
blessed with a number of beautiful parks, including its jewel, Richard
O. Hartley Park and Public Beach; and

WHEREAS, It is the intent of this Legislative Body to publicly
recognize and honor milestones in the history of municipalities that

make up the rich history of this great Empire State; now, therefore, be
it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the Village of Lakewood; and be it
further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to the Village of Lakewood.