Message from the Chairman

Welcome to Steuben County (NY)

Established March 18, 1796, Steuben County covers 1397 square miles with a population of approximately 99,000 people living in rural agricultural areas, quaint small towns, and small city communities. Many of our streets, towns, rivers, and lakes in the area, like Keuka Lake, have names which reflect the influence of the Seneca Indians who lived here long before it became Steuben County. But the county, itself, was named for a Revolutionary War hero, Field General Baron von Steuben, who played a part in the success of George Washington's army.

The bustling activity in our more heavily populated areas (Bath, Hornell, and Corning) nicely complements the rolling hills and deep valleys where you'll find dairy, field crop, and potato farms. Many homegrown fruits and vegetables can be purchased at roadside stands during mid and late summer. You'll find miles of hiking trails and scenic byways that connect one small town to another which are perfect for biking. The Chemung, Canisteo, Conhocton, and Tioga Rivers, as well as Waneta, Lamoka, Loon, and Keuka Lakes, afford a wealth of places and ways to enjoy our great outdoors. Autumn is a special time here, as the entire county becomes a palate of vibrant color. And if you're a hunter, you'll want to explore New York State's perennial leader in bucks taken.

Nestled in the heart of New York's Finger Lakes, one of Steuben County's main draws for visitors is the award-winning wineries, breweries and distilleries in and around the charming village of Hammondsport, voted "America's Coolest Small Town" by readers of Budget Travel magazine in 2012.

Corning's Gaffer District is an historic downtown area known for its exceptional shopping, dining, arts and beautifully restored buildings. A gaffer is a master glassblower and the name is a tribute to Corning's glass heritage. In 2013, Corning was named the "Most Fun Small Town in America" in Rand McNally's "Best of the Road".

Located on the western border of Steuben County, the City of Hornell has a rich history as the commercial center for neighboring communities. Hornell's walkable downtown is flanked by numerous small businesses, valuable historic structures, and features the beautiful wooded hills of Canisteo Valley in the distance. A recent winner of New York State's $10 million Downtown Revitalization Initiative, Hornell is continuing its resurgence with further growth and revitalizing the downtown.

In addition to Steuben's wineries, breweries and distilleries, you can enjoy museums like The Corning Museum of Glass (which houses the most extensive collection of historic and art glass in the world), the Rockwell Museum of Western Art (with the finest collection of Western and Native American Art east of the Mississippi) and the Glenn H. Curtiss Museum (where you'll learn about one of the most brilliant men of the early 20th century). Information about the year-round visitor experiences is available through the Steuben County Conference and Visitors Bureau. The county's Industrial Development Agency is eager to assist businesses, small and large, wishing to locate here. The stability of the western New York State economy combined with our highly skilled and highly educated workforce offer the perfect resources for your business, right here in Steuben County. Whether you are a looking for a great Getaway Vacation or a great place to start or relocate a business, we welcome you.

Scott J. Van Etten, Chairman Steuben County Legislature