The Greater Oneonta Historical Society

Founded in 1939 as the Upper Susquehanna Historical Society, the mission of the Greater Oneonta historical Society is to promote Oneonta’s past and future by providing stimulating educational experiences based on authentic objects, stories, and lives from Oneonta’s rich traditions.

Our History Center is located in Oneonta’s Downtown Historic District and reflects GOHS’ commitment to a vibrant Main Street. The site is historic in its own right: The Bissell Block is the oldest brick building on Main Street, built in 1865 to house Brown’s Hardware Store, and successively the first site of Wilber Bank in Oneonta; Laskaris’ Restaurant, confectionery and ice cream parlor; a dress shop; and a jewelry store. As funding permits, the second floor will include collection storage and a library and research space. The majestic third floor ballroom will be a venue for GOHS and community programs.

Visitors to the History Center will find permanent exhibits on Oneonta and the Bissell Block, plus special exhibits on local history. The Center is the repository of thousands of items of importance to Oneonta’s history, and the venue for monthly programs on local history. GOHS sponsors many ongoing events including summer walking tours, the Antique and Postcard Shows, and the Sally Mullen Local History Awards. The gift shop features local history books, music, crafts and more.

You are invited to support GOHS with your membership.
Membership forms are downloadable at www.OneontaHistory.org