Fairchild Area History Center
The History Center is now open
at 216 N. Front Street
in Downtown Fairchild!
We are so proud to offer a new place to visit and gather in our newly restored building in the heart of Fairchild’s downtown. Whether you enjoy reminiscing about the past or really love digging into old records and maps, you will want to stop by the History Center (and hopefully return again and again).
In early 2024, FAHS completed the extensive renovation of the building that many older residents will remember as Krueger's Cafe. The back portion of the building was originally a gas station from about 1926 until at least 1953. At some point prior to 1958, the front of the building was added on and the structure was used as the local post office until 1963.
The History Center is not a typical museum, instead it is a research center offering a place to preserve, share, and celebrate our the rich history of the Fairchild area and the communities connected along the rail lines of N. C. Foster.
In early 2024, FAHS completed the extensive renovation of the building that many older residents will remember as Krueger's Cafe. The back portion of the building was originally a gas station from about 1926 until at least 1953. At some point prior to 1958, the front of the building was added on and the structure was used as the local post office until 1963.
The History Center is not a typical museum, instead it is a research center offering a place to preserve, share, and celebrate our the rich history of the Fairchild area and the communities connected along the rail lines of N. C. Foster.
Preserving our Area's Rich History
- Older tax assessment rolls, clerk's records, and various other municipal records for the Town of Cleveland, Town of Fairchild, and Village of Fairchild.
- A very large collection variety of maps, plat books, church records, county histories, history books, and other ephemera.
- Many donated historical items are on display.
- An oral history interview project began in July 2024.
- Not only did the renovation project preserve an older building, but the front wall and wainscoting features tongue-and-groove beadboard salvaged from the old Tioga Depot, which was on N.C. Foster's railline. The beadboard was undoubtedly milled at Foster's Mill at Fairchild Pond.
- Hanging files with newspaper articles and records pertaining to places, events, and families. (a work in progress)
- A computer and WiFi for guest use with overhead scanner to digitize pictures and documents.
- A place for organizational activities, including working on projects.
- Stop by to chat, play a game of checkers or cards, put together one of our Fairchild photo puzzles, or explore our many stereoscope slides!
History Center Hours
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Thursdays & Fridays 1 PM - 4 PM Saturdays 10 AM - 2 PM or by appointment To schedule an appointment, please send us an email at: [email protected] |
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Rights reserved. Photos and information on this website may be copyrighted. Photo credits: Sankey family gas station about 1926 excerpt from postcard in Nancy Watenphul collection (background); other photos by Fairchild Area Historical Society.