Cities and Towns in Yates County, New York
Founded in 1823, Yates County is one of 62 counties in the state of New York. Historically, Yates County was formed from Ontario County and Steuben County. The city of Penn Yan is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, Yates County has a population of 24,613 and area of 376 square miles (974 km²).
Major Cities and Towns in Yates County, New York
Penn Yan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,000
- Zip Codes: 14527
- Latitude: 42.6051° N
- Longitude: 77.0554° W
Location and History
Penn Yan is the largest village and the county seat of Yates County, located in the Finger Lakes region of New York, along the western shore of Keuka Lake. The village was founded in 1796 and became an important hub for trade and commerce, primarily due to its location along the New York State Barge Canal and its proximity to Keuka Lake, which served as a transportation route for agricultural goods. The name “Penn Yan” is derived from a combination of “Pennsylvania” and “Yankee,” reflecting the early settlers from Pennsylvania and New England. The town grew rapidly in the 19th century, with the rise of agriculture, particularly fruit farming (apples and grapes), and industries such as milling and manufacturing. Penn Yan’s strategic location at the junction of several major roads also contributed to its development as a commercial center. Over time, the village has become a charming, picturesque community known for its historic architecture and vibrant downtown area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Penn Yan is served by the Penn Yan Central School District, which includes the Penn Yan Academy and several elementary schools. The town is also home to Finger Lakes Community College, which offers a range of higher education programs and is a significant part of the community. Major landmarks in Penn Yan include the Keuka Lake Outlet Trail, a scenic walking and biking path that follows the former canal route, and the Yates County History Center, which showcases the region’s agricultural and industrial past. The village’s charming downtown area features historic buildings, unique shops, and restaurants. The nearby Keuka Lake is a major draw for tourism, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. Additionally, the village is known for its proximity to local wineries, part of the Finger Lakes Wine Region, making it a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. The town also celebrates its history and agricultural roots with events like the Yates County Fair and the Penn Yan Harvest Festival.
Dundee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000
- Zip Codes: 14837
- Latitude: 42.5524° N
- Longitude: 77.0530° W
Location and History
Dundee is a small village located in the northern part of Yates County, situated along the southern shore of Keuka Lake’s Outlet. Originally established in the early 19th century, the village grew as an agricultural community, with a strong emphasis on fruit production, particularly apples and grapes. Dundee’s location along the Keuka Lake Outlet made it an important stop for transporting goods, and the canal system spurred the village’s growth during the 19th century. The town’s name, like many in New York, is derived from Scotland, reflecting the Scottish heritage of some of the area’s early settlers. Dundee is also known for its role in the grape-growing industry, particularly in the production of wine grapes, which is a significant part of the region’s economy. As part of the Finger Lakes Wine Region, Dundee has embraced its agricultural roots, with vineyards and wineries dotting the landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dundee is served by the Dundee Central School District, which includes the Dundee Junior-Senior High School and elementary schools. The village is home to a number of local parks and outdoor spaces, including the nearby Keuka Lake, which offers fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities. Dundee’s historic downtown area features several 19th-century buildings, and the village has a small, welcoming community with local shops, restaurants, and businesses. One of Dundee’s major landmarks is the popular Finger Lakes wine trail, which includes several wineries that produce world-renowned wines. The town is also home to the beautiful Keuka Lake State Park, where visitors can enjoy picnicking, hiking, and outdoor recreation, as well as the nearby Sugar Hill State Forest. Each year, Dundee celebrates its agricultural heritage with events such as the Dundee Harvest Festival, which features local produce, crafts, and music.
Gorham
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 33.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,000
- Zip Codes: 14424
- Latitude: 42.7333° N
- Longitude: 77.1514° W
Location and History
Gorham is a town located in the western part of Yates County, bordered by Canandaigua Lake to the south and Finger Lakes National Forest to the north. The town was established in the early 19th century and was primarily an agricultural community. The fertile land and proximity to the Finger Lakes made it ideal for farming, particularly fruit orchards and dairy farming. In the 19th century, Gorham benefited from the development of the Erie Canal, which connected it to other towns and cities in the region. Though it remains a small, rural community, Gorham has experienced steady growth over the years and is home to a variety of businesses and farms. The town’s location near several large lakes, including Canandaigua Lake and Keuka Lake, has made it an attractive destination for visitors looking to enjoy water-based recreation and scenic views.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gorham is served by the Gorham-Middlesex Central School District, which provides education for children in the area, including Gorham-Middlesex Elementary School and the Middle/High School. The town offers a range of outdoor recreational opportunities, with hiking, boating, and fishing available at nearby Canandaigua Lake and Keuka Lake. One of Gorham’s major landmarks is the Finger Lakes National Forest, which offers miles of hiking trails and camping opportunities, drawing nature enthusiasts year-round. The town is also home to the Gorham Town Hall, a historical building that has served as the center of government and community activities since the town’s founding. Gorham’s rural setting and proximity to lakes and forests make it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and boating. The town celebrates local agricultural traditions with events like the Gorham Harvest Festival, which showcases the area’s farm products and crafts.
Benton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 32.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,200
- Zip Codes: 14424
- Latitude: 42.7122° N
- Longitude: 77.1084° W
Location and History
Benton is a small rural town located in the eastern part of Yates County, nestled between Keuka Lake and Seneca Lake. The town’s history dates back to the early 19th century, with settlers primarily engaging in agriculture, such as farming and raising livestock. Benton was once a prominent producer of apples, with orchards covering much of the land, and it has remained an agricultural community over the years. The town was also a part of the burgeoning wine industry that grew in the Finger Lakes region, with vineyards appearing in the late 19th century. Benton’s rural charm and location between the two large Finger Lakes make it an appealing destination for nature lovers, offering picturesque views and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town remains a quiet place with a strong connection to its farming heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Benton is served by the Penn Yan Central School District, and children from the town attend local schools in Penn Yan, including the Penn Yan Academy. The town has several small, scenic parks and outdoor areas, including access to the shores of Keuka Lake and Seneca Lake. One of the most notable landmarks in Benton is the Finger Lakes Wine Region, where several wineries and vineyards produce high-quality wines. The town is also known for its rural charm, with well-preserved farmland and hiking trails that provide opportunities for outdoor activities. Benton hosts a number of local events celebrating its agricultural heritage, such as harvest festivals and craft fairs, showcasing locally produced goods and farm-fresh products.