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The Busti Historical Society was founded in 1972 as a result of the community's enthusiasm for the mill restoration project. The local Shamrocks 4-H Club had decided to undertake the project of restoring the town's grist mill. Residents of the town supported them both financially and with their hands and backs. Their interest in local history grew and expanded beyond the limits of the mill project.

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At that time there were only two historical societies (not counting one or two school sponsored Yorkers Clubs) exist in the county: the venerable and county wide Chautauqua County Historical Society (1883) and the Fenton Historical Society (1963) in the city of Jamestown which had a population nearly five times that of Busti. Busti obviously served as an example and success story for the many small town historical societies that have since formed locally.

Currently, the Busti Historical Society maintains and operates the 1839 Busti Grist Mill, the miller’s house, the Busti Museum, and the demonstration building. The Busti Apple Harvest Festival, the favorite historical craft fair of southwestern New York and the Society's main fundraiser, is held the last weekend in September.

The Society is chartered by the New York State Department of Education. The Society's mission is to collect and conserve artifacts and records of the Town of Busti and promote the appreciation and continued knowledge of the pioneer and 19th century crafts.

SHARE YOUR STORY OF BUSTI! Visit the historical contributions page for information about donating items, photos, or stories.

If you would like to become a member of the Busti Historical Society, download and complete the membership form and mail it to:

The Busti Historical Society
3443 Lawson Road
Jamestown, NY 14701