Cortland-Bazetta Historical Society

Cortland - Bazetta Historical Society was established in 1976 during the bicentennial to help save the area's history and promote the understanding of the history of our community. We are dedicated to preserving our history and making it available to decendants.

The society purchased the Cortland Opera House in 1987 from the Methodist Church. The Opera House was renovated as it was in the period of 1882 to 1907. During that time, it was used as an opera house and a cultural center for the community. The Society has also restored a beautiful square grand piano owned by Bessie Marvin, a Bazetta resident who was very involved in musical programs held in the Opera House during the early 1900’s.  The piano, which came from Boston and had to cross the Appalachians by ox cart, is on permanent display in the Opera House and is still being used. The building is available for rent for private functions. Rental income helps the society preserve the building for the community. We also make the building available for use by civic organizations. A portion of the lower level of the Opera House was recently renovated to create a secure and environmentally controlled office for the society. Facilities include storage for archives and artifacts, a work area for preservation and cataloging, and a research Library.