The 1800s were a prosperous time for Auburn and the rest of Cayuga County. The small urban community of Auburn played a crucial role in the industrialization of America. Hardwork, crafted skills, and ingenuity created an industrial boom throughout the county.

It was a time for entreprenuers in Cayuga County during the 1800s. John D. Rockefeller, who was raised on a farm overlooking Owasco Lake, brought to life Standard Oil. Another man, Issac Singer, kept a merchant's shop and sawmill in nearby Port Byron. After keeping the business close to home for many years, he expanded nationally and then globally, bringing the world the Singer Sewing Machine Company.

A variety of inventions found their roots in Cayuga County, as well. Cyrenus Wheeler invented and manufactured the famous Cayuga Chief drop reaper in the 1850s. D.M. Osborne had a direct impact on the 19th century agricultural revolution by developing dozens of new labor-saving agricultural devices.

During this time the city of Auburn had been growing by as much as 10% per year. By 1900, Auburn contained 350 manufacturing plants employing more than 6,000 workers.

Photos courtesy of Cayuga Museum   and   Historians Office

Historic Cayuga