From Grapes to Great Flights
Come to the Taylor Memorial Library 11am – 1pm
By Penny Carlton, KeukaRoots.com
If you’re looking for a family-friendly event in the Finger Lakes this fall, mark your calendar for Heritage Day in Hammondsport. On Saturday, September 20, 2025, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm, the Fred & Harriett Taylor Memorial Library will host a community celebration that highlights the rich history, culture, and traditions that make this lakeside village so special.
A New Finger Lakes Tradition
Hammondsport, often called the “Cradle of Aviation” and beloved for its winemaking heritage, knows how to honor its roots. Heritage Day brings together neighbors, families, and visitors to enjoy an afternoon filled with local history, live music, and activities for all ages. It’s a chance to slow down, connect with the community, and experience the best of small-town Finger Lakes charm.
What to Expect at Heritage Day in Hammondsport
The event will feature local institutions that have shaped the region for generations:
• Curtiss Museum – celebrating the life and innovations of aviation pioneer Glenn H. Curtiss
• Finger Lakes Boating Museum – preserving the area’s boating traditions
• Bully Hill Vineyards – founded by Walter S. Taylor, a fearless winemaker with a bold vision
• Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery – honoring the man who transformed American winemaking in the Finger Lakes
• Towns of Urbana & Wayne – sharing history and community pride
Enhancing the festive ambiance, local musician Dan Eaton will grace the gazebo with his performance, infusing the library lawn with live music. For those who appreciate a dash of tradition (in every sense), a grape-stomping activity will be featured—a beloved tradition making a comeback that is sure to become a cherished family favorite, celebrating Hammondsport’s rich winemaking heritage.
Spotlight on Hammondsport Legends
✦ Glenn H. Curtiss — The Cradle of Aviation
Known as the “Father of Naval Aviation,” Glenn Curtiss was a Hammondsport native whose daring innovations changed the course of flight history. In 1908, he became the first American to win a controlled airplane race, and by 1911, his designs made him a leader in aviation worldwide. The Curtiss Museum in Hammondsport keeps his story alive, showcasing not just his airplanes and motorcycles, but his legacy of courage, invention, and vision.
✦ Dr. Konstantin Frank — Revolutionizing Wine in the Finger Lakes
When Dr. Konstantin Frank arrived in Hammondsport in the 1950s, many believed European grapes couldn’t survive in New York’s cold climate. Dr. Frank proved them wrong. By introducing vinifera grapes and modern techniques, he transformed the Finger Lakes into one of the most respected wine regions in the world. Today, Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery continues his pioneering spirit, welcoming wine lovers from across the globe to Hammondsport.
✦ Walter S. Taylor — The Rebel of Bully Hill
Colorful, outspoken, and endlessly creative, Walter Taylor shook up the wine world in the 1970s. After breaking away from his family’s Taylor Wine Company, he founded Bully Hill Vineyards, determined to craft wines “without compromise.” Known for his bold labels, humorous commentary, and dedication to authenticity, Walter made Bully Hill a Finger Lakes favorite. His legacy lives on in the wines and in the spirit of independence that defines Hammondsport’s winemaking story.
Explore Local Shops and Restaurants After the Event
Hammondsport isn’t just about history—it’s a charming village full of local businesses worth exploring. While you’re in town for Heritage Day:
• Stop by historic Main Street for unique shops and galleries, perfect for finding handmade gifts or local art.
• Enjoy a meal at a local café or restaurant—from casual lakeside eateries to fine dining, Hammondsport offers something for every palate.
• Sample local wines at nearby wineries, including Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery and Bully Hill Vineyards, where you can taste the region’s award-winning wines firsthand.
By visiting local businesses and restaurants, you’ll not only support the community but also make your Heritage Day experience a full-day adventure.
Plan Your Visit
The celebration will take place outdoors on the library lawn at 21 William Street, Hammondsport, NY. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair or blanket and make themselves comfortable while enjoying the activities. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or visiting the Finger Lakes for the weekend, Heritage Day is a wonderful way to experience the welcoming spirit of Hammondsport.
Why You Should Go
Events like Heritage Day remind us that history isn’t just something we read about—it’s something we live, share, and carry forward. By celebrating together, the Hammondsport community keeps its stories alive while creating new memories for the next generation.
If you’re searching for things to do in Hammondsport, NY or looking for family-friendly fall events in the Finger Lakes, Heritage Day at the Fred & Harriett Taylor Memorial Library is the perfect way to spend your Saturday.
Join us on September 20, 2025, from 11 am–1 pm and be part of a new event, the vision of Fred & Harriett Taylor Memorial Library Director, Sally Jacoby Murphy and countless others, and celebrate the heart and heritage of Hammondsport. These are the stories that shaped a village.
