MAYVILLE, NY — The Chautauqua County Historian’s Office is pleased to announce the Second Annual Chautauqua County History Expo, scheduled for Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., at the Town of Chautauqua Community Municipal Building (Old Mayville High School), located at 2 Academy Street in Mayville, NY.
Following a successful inaugural year, the 2026 History Expo will be larger, more interactive, and expanded in scope as part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration, marking the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Meet local historians, explore their exhibits, and connect with the people dedicated to preserving Chautauqua County’s history. Designed to be family friendly, the event offers residents and visitors an expanded opportunity to experience the rich and diverse history of Chautauqua County through exhibits, speakers, music, reenactments, and hands-on activities.
“This year’s expo is about more than just looking back — it’s about understanding how Chautauqua County fits into the broader American story as we approach the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian and chair of the History Expo committee. “We’re expanding the event to reflect that milestone, with more exhibits, more programming, and more ways for families to engage with history.”
America 250 Focus and Featured Programming
The 2026 History Expo will place a special emphasis on America 250, highlighting Chautauqua County’s role in the American Story, from early American history, including the Revolutionary War era and the War of 1812, to more recent exhibits. Featured speakers will include:
- Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
Chautauqua County Revolutionary War: Things You Didn’t Know - Traci Langworthy, Interim Dean of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, SUNY JCC
Chautauqua County in the War of 1812 - Paul Fardink, National Society Sons of the American Revolution
Chautauqua County Revolutionary War Veterans and Burial Sites
Music will also be featured throughout the day, including a performance by the Jamestown Harmony Express, coming off a national appearance in Washington, D.C. on July 4, 2026, as part of America 250 celebrations.
Family-Friendly Activities and Interactive Experiences
The History Expo is designed for all ages and will feature:
• Children’s history-focused activities, including invisible ink, secret message code, and “Revolutionary War spy” activities
• A themed photo booth by Bow Tie Photo Booths
• Historical reenactments and reenactors in period dress
• Interactive exhibits and demonstrations
Attendees are encouraged to dress in red, white, and blue or in historical attire to help celebrate America 250 and bring history to life.
Call for Exhibitors and Historical Organizations
Organizers are now welcoming exhibitors, and historical organizations to participate. Exhibitors are expected to be wide-ranging and include historical literature, local artifacts, exhibits, displays, authors, municipal historians, historical societies, libraries, genealogy groups, and other history-related organizations.
Exhibitor registration is available online at chqhistoryexpo.com. Display sign-ups are free through June 30, 2026. After June 30, a $20 registration fee will apply.
Sponsorship and Program Advertising Opportunities
The Chautauqua County History Expo is a non-profit, community-focused event, and program advertisements and sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and organizations interested in supporting local history and education. Sponsorship details will be posted online, with opportunities to support expanded programming and family activities.
“The History Expo is a great example of how collaboration strengthens community pride,” said Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel. “As we prepare for America 250, this event gives us a chance to celebrate our shared past, support the organizations preserving it, and inspire future generations.”
Stay Connected for Updates
Community members are encouraged to stay connected as planning continues. Event updates, announcements, and highlights will be shared on Facebook at www.facebook.com/CHQHistory.
Additional details — including a full schedule, vendor lists, and special announcements — will be released in the coming months.
For more information, to register as a vendor or exhibitor, or to learn more about sponsorship opportunities, visit chqhistoryexpo.com or email: info@chqhistoryexpo.com.
ABOUT THE CHAUTAUQUA COUNTY HISTORY EXPO: Free and open to the public, the Chautauqua County History Expo is an annual, family-friendly event designed to showcase the rich history and diverse heritage of Chautauqua County and surrounding communities. Organized by the Chautauqua County Historian’s Office, the event is supported by a countywide planning committee. This expo promotes local history through exhibits, lectures, reenactments, music, and hands-on experiences featuring museums, historical societies, historians, libraries, genealogy organizations, authors, and other historical entities.
