Pictured above: Theodore Roosevelt and Charles Evans Hughes make a campaign stop in Candor in front of the coal barn. 

About Us

The Candor Historical Society of Candor, NY was formed in 1996 by a group of people interested in preserving local history. Through monthly talks and "show-and-tell" sessions about historical topics, we hope that others will learn and remember what makes our town unique. 

There are a few things that you could help us with:
  • We are continually looking for pictures, remembrances, and accounts from all around Candor
  • We continue to record oral history. If you, or someone you know, would be willing to spend some time talking to us about their time in Candor, let us know.
  • Our History Center has been up and running for nine years. We have hundreds of pictures, newspaper clippings, books, genealogies, etc. for your perusal.  We are open Monday mornings from 9 AM to Noon. If you need to come at some other time, please call Nancy Riggs at 607-759-4001 for an appointment. ​We have gotten grants to do several things with the building and have updated the electrical system, put in two new handicapped bathrooms and a new porch, insulated the building, put in new windows, and put in a new handicapped exit. In 2025 we added a new roof and new siding.  Next, we will be exploring how to add an elevator or something similar to allow people to access our upstairs.  We will also be looking for grants to repaint the walls and ceilings in the building, and to refinish our old, damaged wood floors. All of these things cost money. The grants have helped tremendously, but we love getting help from anyone interested in Candor History. Won't you please consider helping us out with a donation?  You can also donate your empty returnable cans and bottles. There is a drop-off box at Home Central in Candor, or you can take them directly to the Neighborhood Redemption Center on Rt. 17 C in Owego. Or you can call one of the board members listed below to have your items picked up. 
All donations go directly to us through PayPal. You may use PayPal or a credit card for your donation.    Thank You!

Candor Historical Society Board of Directors 2025

Nancy Riggs (President) - 607-759-4001
Eleanor Hurd (Vice-President) - 607-659-7109
Darlene Howland (Secretary) - 607-659-7733
Patti Reichert (Treasurer) - 607-760-7551
Dick Zavatto (Member-at-Large) - 607-236-4011
Sandra Brown (Member-at-Large) - 607-589-6513
Rita Quinlan (Member-at-Large) - 607-659-7254
Carol Henry (Historian) - 607-659-7661

Mission Statement

The business and purpose of the Candor Historical Society shall be to bring together those people interested in history, and especially in the history of the Town of Candor, Tioga County, New York.  Understanding the history of our community is basic to our democratic way of life, gives us a better understanding of our state and nation, and promotes a better appreciation of our American heritage.