Pittsford, NY, is the kind of place where the past isn’t just remembered—it’s lived in, admired, and, on occasion, taste-tested at a local dairy. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, Pittsford’s story is the kind you’ll want to retell over coffee at one of its charming village cafes. Let’s take a stroll through the highlights of this vibrant community’s history and see why it remains a favorite stop for those who appreciate a town with character, charm, and a good story or two.
From Wilderness to Welcome Mat: The Early Days
Back in 1789, two cousins—Simon and Israel Stone—decided to swap the familiar hills of Vermont for the wilds of western New York. They bought land from speculators and set up simple homes, then convinced friends and family to join them in this promising valley. These early settlers didn’t waste time; they quickly turned Pittsford into a bustling center of frontier life.
The town can brag about having Monroe County’s first school, first library, first church, first post office, and even the county’s first doctor and lawyer. If you like being first, Pittsford has you covered.
Originally called Northfield, the town got its current name in 1814 thanks to Colonel Caleb Hopkins, a War of 1812 hero who clearly missed his Vermont hometown enough to share the name.
The Canal That Changed Everything
If you think traffic is bad now, imagine the excitement in 1825 when the Erie Canal opened. This wasn’t just a waterway—it was the superhighway of its day. Suddenly, Pittsford was a busy shipping port, sending local produce east and welcoming a wave of new settlers from New England. Land values soared, and the village expanded so quickly that it was incorporated by 1827.
The canal didn’t just bring business; it brought a sense of possibility. Entrepreneurs made their fortunes, and the town’s Federal period architecture still shows off the prosperity of those years.
All Aboard: The Railroad Arrives
The 1840s brought another boost to Pittsford’s fortunes. The Auburn and Rochester Railroad rolled into town in 1842, making it even easier for people and goods to move in and out. Pittsford became a key stop in a growing network, and life in the village hummed with new energy.
Stories Beneath the Surface: The Underground Railroad
Pittsford played a quiet but meaningful role in the fight for freedom. Before the Civil War, local stories tell of runaway slaves finding shelter in homes and barns, part of the Underground Railroad’s secret network. Samuel Crump, a merchant at the Four Corners, is known to have helped runaways reach Canada. These stories, though sometimes short on documentation, speak to a community that valued courage and compassion.
From Farms to Fine Living
By the late 19th century, Pittsford was attracting a new crowd—those looking for country estates and a taste of the good life. This was the beginning of Pittsford’s transformation into a suburb, a place where grand homes and working farms shared the landscape. Pittsford Farms, established in the 1860s, still operates today, selling milk in glass bottles and reminding everyone that history can be delicious.
Main Street Makeover: 20th Century and Beyond
As Rochester grew, so did Pittsford. The arrival of new office parks, subdivisions, and restored historic buildings in the late 20th century gave the village a fresh look while preserving its traditional charm. The transformation of Schoen Place from lumberyard to a lively retail and dining area is a favorite with both locals and visitors. You can enjoy a meal with a canal view or shop for unique finds in converted warehouses.
Proud Traditions, Modern Comforts
Today, Pittsford is known for its beautiful homes, top-rated schools, and a community spirit that keeps old traditions alive. The town covers about 24 square miles, with plenty of parks, country clubs, and historic sites to explore. Twelve churches, ten parks, five country clubs, and two colleges mean there’s always something happening. The village’s commitment to preserving open space and historic architecture ensures that Pittsford’s character stays strong, even as it grows.
Easy to Visit, Hard to Leave
Located just eight miles from Rochester, Pittsford is easy to reach by road or expressway. The Rochester International Airport is a quick drive away, and even Toronto is only a few hours up the Thruway. Whether you’re here for a day or a lifetime, you’ll find a community that values its roots and welcomes new stories.
Plan Your Next Adventure in Pittsford
From historic walking tours to shopping on Main Street, from farm-fresh treats at Pittsford Farms Dairy to canal-side dining at Schoen Place, Pittsford offers a blend of old and new that’s hard to resist. The best way to discover it all? Take a walk, strike up a conversation, and let the town’s history surprise you. Every corner has a story, and every visitor becomes part of the next chapter.
Sources: townofpittsford.org, villageofpittsfordny.gov
Header Image Source: townofpittsford.org
