The Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) will pay tribute to the 120th anniversary of the cemetery at the New York State Veterans Home during the CCHS annual member meeting on Nov. 7. The commemoration begins at 5:30 p.m. at the Veterans Home, located at 4207 state Route 220 in Oxford. (Submitted photo)

OXFORD — In the 85 years since it was founded, the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS) has commemorated community heritage, highlighting unique local landmarks and celebrating significant regional milestones.

As a tribute to this enduring legacy and the 120th anniversary of the cemetery at the New York State Veterans Home, a commemoration will be held beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 7 at 4207 State Route 220 in Oxford.

In 1894, New York State appointed the first board of managers to build a home for Civil War veterans. Ellen Putnam, who helped found the Woman’s Relief Corps to assist former soldiers, was the first superintendent of the facility, originally known as the Woman’s Relief Corps Home. Today’s Veterans Home is a 242-bed facility situated on 60 acres, providing state-of-the-art medical, nursing, psychosocial, and rehabilitative services to its residents.

“We look forward to honoring the 120th anniversary of the Veterans Home cemetery,” said Jessica Moquin, executive director at CCHS. “This event combines our annual membership meeting with the commemoration of an important local landmark.”

Space is limited for this commemoration; current CCHS members are required to pre-register no later than 4 p.m. on Nov. 1 by emailing info@ChenangoHistorical.org or by calling 607-334-9227, ext. 2.

Two years ago, CCHS announced a refreshed and updated membership program, with streamlined categories and expanded core benefits. A selection of seven membership categories offers benefits for two adults at the same address, which extend to all persons 18 or under who reside with adult members. To secure a new or renewed CCHS membership, visit chenangohistorical.org/get-involved/membership.

First established in 1939, CCHS is the primary organization dedicated to actively and comprehensively preserving the history of Chenango County. The area’s premier heritage museum, the organization celebrates local culture – unique traditions, noteworthy residents, and unusual stories of the region.

CCHS programs are made possible by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature.

-Information provided by CCHS