The Creamery - Skaneateles Historical Society

Overview

The Creamery was built in 1899 so farmers would have a place to sell their milk and the public a place to purchase dairy products. In time, about 200 farmers were bringing their milk to the Creamery. The farmer was paid based both on the poundage and the butterfat content of his milk. Much of the cream separated from the milk was made into butter in the steam-driven 375 gallon butter churn. This butter was often shipped to New York City where there was a large market for sweet (unsalted) butter. In 1989, an opportunity was offered to the Society to take over the former Skaneateles Creamery Co. building at 28 Hannum St. The members voted in favor of this project, and with the help of the community, it opened in 1992 as the permanent home of the Skaneateles Historical Society. HOURS OF OPERATION: FRIDAY & SATURDAY 1:00pm to 4:00pm