This geocache is one of eight that are a part of the History of Newfane Geocache Trail. I created this series of geocaches in order to complete my Gold Award, which is the highest award a Girl Scout can achieve. Local history is particularly important because there are many stories and artifacts that reflect our lives today. - Grace
For a time, the most popular form of local business was milling. The first mills were built in 1810 and 1811, by James Van Horn and his partners. The last of the Van Horn-run mills closed in 1894. Milling continued in the area, but it is unclear how long, but into the 20th century. The Van Horn Mansion acquired its name from the family who built and shared the home for nearly a century.
The mansion was the first brick building in the community. It is the most known for being haunted by a number of spirits. The most famous is Malinda Niles Van Horn, who was buried 185 years ago (1897). Her gravestone was found in the carriage house, left behind after the rest of the family had been removed from the cemetery on the property at the turn of the 20th century. This prompted the historical society to reach out to the local sheriffs and enlist the help of cadaver dogs who discovered her remains in the backyard. She is presently laid to rest under her original headstone in the rose garden.
The mansion has a long and impressive history. It was the site of Newfane’s first town meeting on April 6, 1925. The home also served as a stop on the underground railroad, owing to its location, the presence of a tunnel that led to the creek, and surrounding homes in the area.
Sources: newfanehistoricalsociety.com, niagara-gazette.com