Dr. Samuel Watkins

Dr. Samuel Watkins - Watkins Glen

There are four self-rule villages in Schuyler County. The largest is Watkins Glen. Initially, settlers grouped in four separate areas within what is now Watkins Glen, each designating a different "village" name. Dr. Samuel Watkins came from New York City in 1828 and, in time, created a single village, a charter was issued in 1842. When Dr. Watkins changed the name to Jefferson, village officials drew up a new charter in 1852.

After Dr. Watkins died, his widow suggested the village name be changed to Watkins in recognition of his many beneficences to the area. This was done and yet another charter drawn up in 1861. Because of the presence of Watkins Glen State Park, visitors and other non-residents caused some confusion by persisting in calling the village Watkins Glen. In 1926, the U.S. Postal Service agreed to allow the village to be named Watkins Glen


From: The Schuyler County History