Gates Historical Society

About Us

The Society operates The Hinchey Homestead for the Town of Gates. The Hinchey Homestead was built in the 1870s on the site of the first clapboard home in Gates c. 1810 which is now gone. It stands today as the only structure in Gates listed on the National Register of Historic Places. With modifications only for electricity and water service, the homestead remains virtually untouched since its initial construction. This is what makes this structure so unique. The interior has only been minimally remodeled or changed. Visitors to the home today can still see the intricate woodworking details that were highlights of the craftsmanship of the day. All of the rooms are just as they were with original and period furnishings, the gift of Wolcott Hinchey, remaining in each room. The period of significance for the house is 1870-1910. The Society hosts programs at the Gates Town Hall which are free and open to the community, we offer tours of the Hinchey Homestead, host events at the homestead for the community and are always available to help with questions about the Town of Gates and its history.