Papa Bear

Built in 1845, Papa Bear was the home of the first brick courthouse in Seneca county. It also holds living quarters for the undersheriff, and three jail cells in the basement. The jail cells held individuals who had committed misdemeanors or who were waiting for trial. The undersheriff's wife would cook for the prisoners. Sometimes prisoners would escape from their cells with notable escapes happening in 1846, 1848, 1852, 1857, and 1859.

The courtroom itself held both grand and petite juries. The courthouse would also hold religious services for a variety of Christian denominations, concerts, and political services. This included a temperance lecture by Hon. Benjamin Joy in 1854 and special guest Horace Greeley, editor of the New York Tribune in 1857.

Today, Papa Bear houses the Friends of the Three Bears, a non-profit dedicated to preserving the buildings and building community. They hold various events and programs, including the annual strawberry festival, farmer's markets, free concerts, art classes and presentations, and an annual history series.

For a 3D Tour of Papa Bear, please follow this link: Click Here for 3D Tour of Papa Bear