NYSAC (New York State Association of Counties) represents, educates, and advocates for all 62 Member Counties and the thousands of elected and appointed county officials who serve the public.

Erie County

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Erie County History

The earliest inhabitants of Erie County were the Erie Indians, followed by the Seneca Indians who controlled Western New York in the 17th century. To protect the fur trade, the French built Fort Niagara in 1726. In 1798 the Holland Land Company purchased the land west of the Genesee River, and hired Joseph Ellicott to survey and begin the development of the area. Ellicott with his brother, Andrew, had laid out Washington D.C. and the same wagon-wheel plan was used for “New Amsterdam” (later called Buffalo).

Full History

Facts

  • Population: 950,265
  • Year Organized: 1821
  • Area: 1,045 Square Miles

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Census Information

Visit the U.S. Census Website for an array of demographic information.
U.S. Census information

Erie County Website

Your link for the official Erie County Website.
www.erie.gov

Last modified: August 26, 2010
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