Ontario County, New York

Ontario County, New York
source
County	Ontario County
State	New York
Founded	1789
Seat	Canandaigua
Largest city	Canandaigua
Area total sq mi	662
Area land sq mi	644
Area water sq mi	18
Population as of	2020
Population total	112,458
Population density sq mi	auto
Time zone	Eastern
Web	www.ontariocountyny.gov
Named for	Lake Ontario

Ontario County, New York. Located in the Finger Lakes region of Upstate New York, it is a county rich in historical significance and natural beauty. Established in 1789 and named for Lake Ontario, its county seat is the historic city of Canandaigua. The county is known for its vibrant agricultural industry, particularly viticulture, and its role as a center for higher education and technology.

History

The region was originally the homeland of the Seneca people, part of the Iroquois Confederacy. The Treaty of Canandaigua in 1794, signed between the Seneca nation and the United States, was a pivotal agreement that recognized tribal sovereignty. Following the American Revolutionary War, the area saw rapid settlement as part of the Phelps and Gorham Purchase, with pioneers like Jemima Wilkinson establishing early communities. The Women's Rights Movement found early support here, with figures like Susan B. Anthony born in nearby Adams and later active in the region. The Erie Canal, completed in 1825, spurred economic growth, connecting local agriculture to broader markets. The 20th century brought institutions like the Canandaigua VA Medical Center and the growth of Eastman Kodak in nearby Rochester, which influenced the local economy.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 662 square miles, of which 644 square miles is land. Its northern border is defined by the shores of Lake Ontario, while its interior is marked by several of the Finger Lakes, including Canandaigua Lake and Honeoye Lake. The landscape features rolling hills, fertile valleys, and portions of the Montezuma National Wildlife Refuge. Major geographic features include the Bristol Hills and the High Tor Wildlife Management Area. The county is traversed by several significant roadways, including the New York State Thruway and Interstate 390.

Demographics

As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 112,458. The racial makeup was predominantly non-Hispanic white, with growing communities of African American, Asian, and Hispanic residents. The county seat, Canandaigua, is the most populous city, followed by towns like Geneva (which straddles the border with Seneca County) and Victor. Educational attainment is high, with a significant percentage of residents holding bachelor's degrees or higher, supported by the presence of Hobart and William Smith Colleges in Geneva and Finger Lakes Community College in Canandaigua.

Government and politics

Ontario County operates under a Board of Supervisors system, with representatives from its towns and cities. The county government administers services through departments such as the Sheriff's Office, the Department of Public Works, and the Public Health department. Politically, the county has historically leaned Republican in presidential elections, though local races are often competitive. It is part of New York's 24th congressional district, represented in the U.S. House by Claudia Tenney. The New York State Police and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation also maintain a presence in the county.

Economy

The economy is diverse, with a strong base in agriculture, including dairy farming and fruit orchards. The county is a major producer in the New York wine industry, with numerous vineyards and wineries dotting the Canandaigua Lake and Keuka Lake trails. Manufacturing remains significant, with companies like G.W. Lisk Company and Cummins Inc. operating facilities. Tourism is a major driver, centered on the Finger Lakes Tourism Alliance, lake activities, and events like the Canandaigua Lady boat tours. The University of Rochester and Rochester Institute of Technology in neighboring Monroe County contribute to a skilled workforce and technology sector growth.

Communities

The county contains two incorporated cities: Canandaigua (the county seat) and Geneva (shared with Seneca County). There are fifteen towns, including rapidly growing Victor, historic Bloomfield, and Farmington. Notable villages include Shortville on Honeoye Lake and Naples, known for its grape harvest and Naples Valley. The hamlet of Bristol Springs is a noted historic site. Many communities are part of the Canandaigua City School District or the Victor Central School District. Category:Ontario County, New York Category:1789 establishments in New York (state) Category:Finger Lakes