Addison, New York, has several key dates marking its establishment and naming. While it was first settled in 1791, the town was formally organized in March 1796, initially under the name Middletown, before officially becoming Addison on April 6, 1808.
When Was Addison NY Founded?
The founding of Addison, NY, can be understood through a progression of key historical events, from its initial settlement to its formal organization and eventual naming.
Key Dates in Addison, NY's Establishment
The journey of Addison, NY, from a nascent settlement to a recognized town involved distinct stages, each marked by a significant date. These milestones define its origins:
- 1791: The area was first settled.
- March 1796: The town was formally organized as "Middletown."
- April 6, 1808: The name was officially changed to "Addison."
To provide clarity, here's a breakdown of these foundational moments:
Event | Date | Description |
---|---|---|
First Settlement | 1791 | Samuel Rice was the first individual to settle in the area. |
Formal Organization (Middletown) | March 1796 | Organized as a part of Steuben County's creation, initially named Middletown. |
Renamed Addison | April 6, 1808 | The town was officially renamed Addison in honor of Joseph Addison. |
Early Settlement
The earliest recorded presence in the area that would become Addison was in 1791, when Samuel Rice established the first settlement. At this time, the region was considered part of the larger, older town of Painted Post.
Formal Organization as a Town
A more significant step towards its formal establishment occurred in March 1796. During the creation of Steuben County, the area was officially organized as a town under the name Middletown. This marked its transition from a simple settlement to a recognized administrative entity.
Becoming "Addison"
The name we know today, Addison, was officially adopted much later. On April 6, 1808, the town's name was formally changed from Middletown to Addison. This renaming was a tribute to Joseph Addison, a prominent English author. Therefore, while its roots stretch back to 1791 and its formal organization to 1796, the town officially became "Addison" in 1808.