MAYVILLE, NY — History enthusiasts, families, and curious learners are invited to attend the Second Annual CHQ History Expo on 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), 2 Academy Street, Mayville, NY. Admission is free and open to the public.
The event will officially begin with an Opening Ceremony at 10:00 a.m., welcoming guests and launching a full day of exhibits, lectures, reenactments, live music, genealogy resources, interactive displays, and family-friendly activities. A complete event schedule is available online at CHQHistoryExpo.com.
Following a successful inaugural event, this year's History Expo has expanded as part of the nationwide America 250 commemoration, celebrating the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. Visitors will enjoy a full day of programming that showcases Chautauqua County's rich history while highlighting the county's role in the American story.
"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 celebrate our nation's 250th anniversary," said Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian and chair of the History Expo Committee. "Whether you're passionate about local history, researching your family's roots, or simply looking for a fun family outing, there's something for everyone."
Featured America 250 Lecture Series
This year's lecture series will highlight Chautauqua County's connections to America's earliest years with presentations from local historians and genealogy experts:
- Norman Carlson, Chautauqua County Historian
Chautauqua County in the Revolutionary War - Paul Fardink, National Society Sons of the American Revolution
Revolutionary Veterans Buried in Chautauqua County - Traci Langworthy, Interim Dean of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, SUNY Jamestown Community College
Chautauqua County in the War of 1812 - Rhonda Hoffman, Genealogy Researcher
Finding Your Revolutionary War Ancestors
Music will also be featured throughout the day, including a special performance by the Jamestown Harmony Express, fresh off its appearance during the national America 250 celebration in Washington, D.C.
Family-Friendly Activities
The CHQ History Expo is designed for visitors of all ages and will feature:
- Children's hands-on history activities, including invisible ink, secret codes, and Revolutionary War spy experiences.
- Historical reenactors and living history demonstrations.
- Interactive exhibits from museums, historical societies, libraries, and local organizations.
- A themed photo booth courtesy of Bow Tie Photo Booths.
- Dozens of exhibits showcasing Chautauqua County's people, places, and stories.
A food vendor will be on-site during the lunch hours, offering refreshments for attendees.
Guests are encouraged to wear red, white, and blue or historical attire as they help celebrate America's 250th birthday.
"The History Expo is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our community's heritage while recognizing the important role Chautauqua County has played throughout our nation's history," said Chautauqua County Executive PJ Wendel. "As America prepares to commemorate its 250th anniversary, I encourage everyone to join us for this unique event that brings history to life for all generations."
Additional parking is available at the Chautauqua County Courthouse, 3 N. Erie Street, Mayville, just a short horse-drawn carriage ride to the event venue.
For a complete event schedule and additional information, visit CHQHistoryExpo.com or follow the CHQ History Expo on Facebook at facebook.com/CHQHistory.
ABOUT THE CHQ HISTORY EXPO
The CHQ History Expo is a free, annual, family-friendly event showcasing the rich history and diverse heritage of Chautauqua County and surrounding communities. Organized by the Chautauqua County Historian's Office with support from a countywide planning committee, the expo features exhibits, lectures, music, genealogy resources, authors, museums, historical societies, libraries, and interactive experiences that inspire appreciation for local history while celebrating America's 250th anniversary.
