SOUTH OTSELIC — On July 8, 2023, South Otselic will be celebrating the 40th anniversary of its designation as a historic district on the National Register of Historic Places. Currently, there are 50 contributing structures, including the Ford House adjacent to the United Methodist Church.

Built in 1828, the Ford House has, until recently, been occupied for nearly two centuries, making it possibly the oldest standing building in the hamlet. It’s original owner, Dr. Norman Ford (1800-1879) was the first physician in the hamlet as well as the first Post Master. He also built an extension to the house which then served as the first tavern, which he ran for about 15 years.

The Ford House is also one of the few remaining examples of the simple post-and-beam structures in South Otselic that were common in the early 19th century.

Consequently, the Otselic Valley Fishing and Heritage Association (OVF&HA) has been considering the purchase and renovation of the Ford House for use, possibly, as a heritage center and museum. Before proceeding, the OVF&HA would like to survey the interest of our neighbors in such a project.

According to David Farber of DTS Engineering PLLC, the Ford House is structurally sound and in remarkably good shape for its age. Such a project would, of course, require a large and long-term investment of time, talent, and money. It could become a focal point for activity from which we could build and enrich the communities of the Otselic river valley.

With this in mind, please visit OVF&HA's website at ovfish.org to complete a brief survey which will help us discern interest in this project. Please submit the completed survey no later than July 10, 2023 by emailing it to sotfishingday@gmail.com or mail it to OVF&HA, P.O. Box 113, South Otselic, NY 13155.

-Information provided by OVF&HA