FREWSBURG, N.Y. — Chautauqua County will honor the lives of workers who have been injured or lost their lives on the job during the 25th Annual Workers Memorial Service, scheduled for Saturday, May 2, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Workers Memorial site at Erlandson Overlook Park, 465 Oak Hill Road in Frewsburg.
Organized by the Chautauqua County Workers’ Memorial Committee, this annual observance serves as a solemn reminder of the importance of workplace safety while paying tribute to those who went to work and never returned home.
During the ceremony, attendees will gather to remember “all Chautauqua County workers” who have been injured or killed on the job. A key component of the service is the reading of the Memorial Roll, which now includes more than 180 individuals whose lives were lost while working in Chautauqua County. Many of these names are permanently inscribed on bricks lining the walkway leading from the Workers’ Memorial monument to the memorial flagpole.
Over the past winter, the brick walkway was refurbished by the Chautauqua County Department of Public Facilities, enhancing the site for future generations. The Workers’ Memorial Committee extends its appreciation for this important upgrade, which helps preserve the dignity and accessibility of the memorial.
“This annual service is an important opportunity for our community to come together in remembrance,” said County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. “We honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice and renew our shared commitment to ensuring every worker returns home safely.”
The Workers Memorial site at Erlandson County Overlook Park features a memorial gazebo, monument, and inscribed brick walkway, and is visited by thousands each year for its scenic views, picnicking areas, and nature trails. The site is made possible through the cooperation of Chautauqua County Government, the County Parks Commission, community supporters, and a grant that funded the gazebo from the late New York State Senator Jess Present.
All members of the public are encouraged to attend and take part in this meaningful tribute. For those unable to attend in person, the ceremony will be livestreamed on Chautauqua County Government’s official YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/@ChautauquaCounty
Let us remember the dead — and fight for the living.
