Old Mentz Heritage Center is the result of a merger of two active historical societies in neighboring communities with a common thread that includes our early history and mission: Lock 52 of Port Byron and Montezuma Historical Societies. In 2022 the two groups began discussions of a joining into one organization to combine our resources to better serve our communities. Early in 2023 we began the process of an application to the New York State Education Regents Chartering Department to form a new merged non-profit group. New bylaws were written which govern how we manage the society, its collections and what we can do. While making plans and waiting for the charter approval several successful programs and events were co-sponsored by the two groups during 2023.

The former Lock 52 Historical Society of Port Byron was formed in 1979, after the committee that had worked on the 1976 Bicentennial felt that the village and town should have it’s own organization working on historical matters. The funds that were left over were donated to the new organization, and it took the name of the local Erie Canal Lock that sat along the NYS Thruway, Lock 52.  In the early 1990s, the organization purchased the Moore house at 73 Pine Street, it’s first real property purchase. This gave the group it’s own home where they could collect artifacts and host programs. The Old Mentz Heritage Center is located here where meetings, collections, displays and programs are held by the newly formed group.

The Montezuma Historical Society formed following the Town of Montezuma taking ownership of a closed church building in 2004 that was one of the first churches built in the area between the town borderlines of Mentz and Montezuma. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places and a preservation committee was formed to restore what is known as the Historic Mentz Church. This led to eventually forming as a historical society in 2006. Historical programs, and special events such as weddings and special services were held there. In 2010 when the town received state funding to develop a historic Erie Canal Park just outside the hamlet, the historical society shifted it’s focus to support the town in these efforts. 

Research

Are you doing research on a long lost family member or other historical event? There are two ways we can help. The best way would be to send us your question so we can check to see what we might have to help you. But before you do this, we ask that you use this form to ensure that you have checked the available digital resources. This way we are not repeating your work and we can focus on finding answers for you. If we determine that we have materials that can help you, then we can either arrange for a volunteer to continue to work with you by phone and messaging, or we can arrange for you to visit to our building on Pine Street in Port Byron. As we do not have regular hours, please do not stop by. You must call or email before your visit so we can arrange a time.