Community News

     The Oswego County Historical Society will host the first lecture of the 2013 series at 1:30 p.m., Sunday, April 14, at the Richardson-Bates House Museum at 135 E. Third St., Oswego.

     Guest lecturer Peg Peck will present a program entitled "George Scriba and the Scriba Land Patent." Peck is the currently the co-historian of the town of Constantia located in the southern part of Oswego County, where George Scriba once lived.
     This lecture will help answer the questions about who George Scriba was and how he came to purchase most of what is the present day Oswego County and parts of Oneida County. The Scriba Land Patent totaled 500,000 acres of land east of the Oswego River.
     "The Scriba Land Patent has a tremendous historical impact on the history of Oswego County. It is hard to imagine in today's world anyone ever acquiring that much property," said Justin White, society president. "The name Scriba is known to those of us who live in Oswego County, but not everyone knows the incredible story behind it."
     An immigrant from Germany, Scriba came to United States in the late 18th century and opened a successful banking business in New York City. He soon turned his attention to land speculation when the State of New York began selling large tracts of land. Peck will discuss her extensive research on George Scriba, including his lofty dreams for major development of Oswego County.
     "This area was a virtual wilderness in 1794 when George Scriba had a vision to make this area a desirable destination for pioneers," White added. "His investment played an integral part in the settlement of this part of the state."
     The event is free and open to the public.
     The Oswego County Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and promotion of the rich history of the county. The society maintains and operates the Richardson-Bates House Museum, a historic landmark listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Beginning in April, the museum will be open from 1-5 p.m., Thursday, Friday and Saturday; other days by appointment.
     For more information, visit the museum website at www.rbhousemuseum.org for regular updates or call during regular hours at 343-1342.