Hornell’s Erie Railroad heritage and a family furniture store that opened in 1876 received state recognition Monday as area legislators presented resolutions marking their 175th and 150th anniversaries.
State Sen. Tom O’Mara, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano and Assemblyman Joe Sempolinski joined Mayor John Buckley for visits to the Hornell Erie Depot Museum on Loder Street and Davidson’s Furniture on Main Street, according to a news release.
The Senate and Assembly unanimously approved both sets of commemorative resolutions in June, during the closing weeks of the 2026 legislative session. The presentations took place Oct. 26.
Erie Railroad’s arrival recognized after 175 years
At the depot museum, legislators presented copies of resolutions J2277 and K1505 commemorating the 175th anniversary of the Erie Railroad’s inaugural trip through Hornell. Museum board members and volunteers joined the presentation.
The resolution recognizes railroad workers, civic leaders, historians, preservationists and community members whose work has kept the city’s transportation history available to later generations.
Buckley said the railroad’s arrival helped transform Hornell from an agricultural community into a major railroad center, shaping its economy and identity.
“That legacy remains an important part of who we are today and it’s fitting that we take this opportunity to recognize and celebrate the people, innovation, and hard work that helped put Hornell on the map,” Buckley said.
In a joint statement, O’Mara, Palmesano and Sempolinski pointed to the continuing importance of rail manufacturing and refurbishing at Alstom. They credited the museum with preserving and explaining that history.
Davidson’s Furniture marks 150 years
The legislators’ second stop honored Davidson’s Furniture, which was founded in 1876 and has operated through more than four generations of the Davidson family.
Resolutions J2274 and K1494 call it Hornell’s oldest store and describe it as believed to be one of New York’s oldest continuously family-owned furniture stores.
The business’s owner, Mike Davidson, and Barbara McCarthy joined the legislators and Buckley for the recognition. The lawmakers cited the family’s furniture and home design work and its long service to Hornell customers.
Buckley said the anniversary reflected the relationships the business had built with generations of local families.
Davidson thanked customers, the community and his family for supporting the store over the years.
“This achievement would not have been possible without their trust and encouragement,” he said.
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