Stories – Page 2 – Fair Haven History

Who was Big Bo?

‟I remember the ice cream stand. We got ice cream every night and I got the same flavor every night, black raspberry and it still is my favorite!” Kathy Martin

It looks like this photo of Big Bo’s was taken in the late fall when the outdoor tables would have been put away for the season.

‟Ah, the good old days! I remember us kids trying to drench each other by spinning the umbrellas on the tables after it rained.” Todd Parsons

‟Where are the tables? They used to get so mad at us kids for hanging out there, sitting on the tables. Learning tricks on our BMX bikes, doing stunts, skateboards, etc. Dale McFarland driving up telling us we had to move, like everyday. Haha 1986-1994.” Jeffrey W. Clark

Big Bo’s, Inc. was founded by John Gagas and incorporated February 19, 1973 in Oswego. He was then ready to find franchisees to open locations. Continue reading “Who was Big Bo?”

Earliest Fair Haven Descriptions

These early descriptions of Fair Haven tell their own story
as we follow what was said by those living at the time.

1813 New York State Gazetteer

The original boundaries of Cato encompassed all of what is now Victory, Conquest, Ira, Cato and Sterling. This entry in the 1813 Gazetteer describes this entire area, having been written prior to Sterling becoming self-governing on June 19, 1812. Little Sodus was little known (and would not be renamed Fair Haven for another 40 years). Continue reading “Earliest Fair Haven Descriptions”

William L. Blaisdell

William L. Blaisdell
1846 Oct 17 – 1941 Feb 13

William L. Blaisdell of Martville, the lone surviving veteran of the Civil War from Cayuga County died at his home on February 13, 1941 after a five week illness. Comrade Blaisdell was 94 years of age.

His birthday was annually celebrated in lively fashion by members of the Sons of Union Veterans of Auburn and members of other patriotic and civic organizations of Auburn participating. He was in the finest of health and spirits on the occasion of his 94th birthday and he looked forward to many more, hoping to reach the century mark. He had often been feted by Auburn Rotary Club. Continue reading “William L. Blaisdell”