Early Youngstown

Youngstown, situated on the Niagara River at Lake Ontario, grew because of its key location on the water routes between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic Ocean. Although its location next to Fort Niagara made it part of the Pre-Revolutionary history of the U.S., it was not settled by colonials until the early 1800’s.

Most of the business establishments at that time were those related to inn-keeping and dry goods. John Young, a Canadian businessman, purchased most of what is now the Village from N.Y. State, and in 1808 it was named Youngstown.

During the War of 1812, the Village was completely burned in retaliation by the Canadians for the United States’ burning of the Niagara-On-The-Lake. By 1823, the Village had rebuilt but there were still not more than a dozen frame houses along the Main Street. There was the one “red store” owned by John Young, and a wagon shop, a blacksmith shop, a post office and three taverns.

Youngstown Today

Still benefiting from its proximity to Lake Ontario the Niagara River and Fort Niagara, Youngstown has a thriving waterfront and a unique and attractive business district. With boat launching facilities and a few array of marine services, Water Street serves as the gateway to some of the best sailing, boating and fishing waters in the Northeast.

Main Street features snack shops and restaurants to suit every palate, with Lockport Street offering a modern shopping plaza. A little further from the business center, farm markets with fresh grown produce abound.

Three State Parks provide visitors to Youngstown with ample swimming, camping, picnicking, hiking, cross-country skiing and sledding opportunities.

Living up to its motto, Youngstown is truly “YOUNG IN SPIRIT, AGELESS IN PRIDE.”