Naples

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Founded: 1789
Population: 3,513 (c.2000)

Naples, New York is located approximately four miles south of Canandaigua Lake. Although it is among the smallest communities in the state, this area (known as Grape Country) is one of the most treasured destinations in the Finger Lakes Region.

Blessed with a unique geographic location and fertile land, the Naples area is an ideal spot to grow grapes - a tradition that was started in the 1840's by a single land owner who planted 150 grape vines on a nearby hillside. Much of Naples' esteemed past can be traced back to that historic event, as it was the beginning of a big industry.

During its early years, however, the Naples Valley was thought to be anything but a prosperous area. Once the site of an ancient Seneca Indian Nation named "Nundawao," Naples was considered among the least desirable territories for sale due to its barren and mountainous territory. The first settlers purchased the land for a mere 12 cents per acre.

By the late 1820's Naples had developed into a thriving community with churches, grist mills, saw mills, tanneries, hotels and other businesses. By 1860, the Naples Academy was built, and in 1872 the Naples Memorial Town Hall was erected to honor the more than 200 local men who had served in the Civil War.

In addition to these buildings, several other landmarks are on display throughout the Naples area, including the Morgan Hook and Ladder Company (listed on the National Register of Historic Places) and Grimes Glen (site of a celebrated archeological find). Local attractions include the Bristol Valley Theater and the Hi Tor Wildlife Management Area. Corporate business includes: Widmer's Wine Cellars (wine manufacturer) and Lake Country Woodworkers (manufacturer of commercial wood office furnishings).

Did you Know?

1. Myron Clark (of Naples) became the first Republican governor of the State of New York.
    
2. Naples is home to Doc and Katy Abraham - nationally known for their gardening books, radio and television programs.
    
3. On April 1, fishing season begins in Lake Country with the "shocking" of fish in Naples Creek. The procedure involves bringing fish to the top of the water so they can be analyzed.
    
4. It is estimated that nearly 70,000 grape pies, A Finger Lakes specialty, are sold annually in Naples, NY.
    
5. In 1882, Dana Luther, a Naples biologist, discovered the fossil of one of the oldest trees in the world at Grimes Glen. The tree, which had a trunk eighteen feet in diameter, is believed to be from the Devonian Period - over 350 million years ago. "The Naples Tree" is currently on display in the New York State Museum in Albany.

For more information go to www.naplesvalleyny.com/