History of Finger Lakes in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: October 29, 2025

The Finger Lakes are a collection of eleven long, narrow lakes oriented north-south in the Finger Lakes region of New York, USA. Geographically, the region sits on the boundary between the Northern Allegheny Plateau, specifically the Finger Lakes Uplands and Gorges ecoregion, and the Ontario Lowlands ecoregion within the Great Lakes Lowlands. This unique positioning contributes to the area's distinctive geological features and landscape.

1910: Construction of Geneva on the Lake villa

From 1910 to 1914, a villa was built in Geneva on the Lake, recalling those on Italian lakes. It now serves as an inn and has European-style gardens.

1976: Passage of the Farm Winery Act

In 1976, with the passage of the Farm Winery Act, numerous wineries opened to visitors, contributing to the growth of the region through production and tourism.

2010: Establishment of Hemlock-Canadice State Forest

In August 2010, the Hemlock-Canadice State Forest was implemented, covering 6,684 acres and encompassing Hemlock and Canadice lakes. These lakes have been providing drinking water for the City of Rochester for over 100 years.

December 2014: New York bans fracking

In December 2014, the government of New York banned all fracking in the state due to concerns about pollution risks, especially groundwater contamination.

2017: Toxic Algae Outbreak

In 2017, all of the Finger Lakes experienced at least one outbreak of toxic algae, and for most of the lakes, it has become an annual occurrence.

2018: Craft beer industry growth

In 2018, the craft beer industry in the Finger Lakes region experienced significant growth, becoming home to the second-highest number of breweries in New York after the Hudson Valley.

2022: Railroad center in Hornell

As of 2022, Hornell, just southwest of the Finger Lakes, continues to be a major railroad center where locomotives are repaired and rail passenger cars are built.