Town of Cato Historian

Judson Hapeman was a revered businessman in the village of Cato at the turn of the twentieth century. He was best remembered for his lumber, coal and builders supply empire. 

Three families in Ira Center operated a limestone kiln on their adjoining properties. One kiln operated for nearly 50 years and made a name for itself in the town. 

In a game of high stakes, one man went all in. Did he win? Stay tuned! 

During World War II, there was a shortage of labor on the home front and especially in upstate NY. POW labor was the solution. 

Agriculture was the economic backbone for most of the region. Modern times called for modern machinery and thus the need for experienced founders. EQ Dutton was one of those men.