ABOUT
Since its inception in 1964, the society’s mission has been to gather and disseminate information concerning the history the of the town of Williamson, Wayne County New York, in general and the unincorporated hamlet of Pultneyville in particular. Williamson, was established February 20, 1802 and named for Captain Charles Williamson the land agent originally selected to develop the land. which was part of the Phelps-Gorham purchase. In 1806, the settlement now known as Pultneyville was developed by Jacob Hallet a land agent for the “Pulteney Estate”.
Located in the historic district in the hamlet of Pultnyville, the Society owns and manages 3 properties: the Society house at 4130 Mill Street, Centennial Park in the center of Pultneyville and Gates Hall across the street from the park. Gates Hall, built in 1825 by the community has been the venue for many historic events, including talks on religion, slavery, and women’s rights as well as preparing supplies for the Civil War.
Residing on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places and used for over 150 years as a theatre, Gates Hall proudly bears the designation of the oldest, continuously active, small community theatre in the United States.
Officers
- President: Nanette Hance
- Vice President: Jamie Peters Sonneville
- Secretary: Terry Sutherland
- Treasurer: Lou Martino
- Director of Development/Gates Hall Chairperson: Laura Wayland-Smith Hatch
W-HPS GATES HALL STANDING COMMITTEE
Our dedicated committee focuses on securing the legacy of Gates Hall as America’s oldest, continuously active small community theater. This committee provides invaluable guidance and oversight for the preservation, maintenance, and effective stewardship of both the interior and exterior spaces of Gates Hall and its surroundings. By doing so, we ensure that Gates Hall remains a cherished and indispensable community resource for generations to come.