The small town of Bolivar is located in the Western part of New York. Though it currently only has a population of just above 1,000, the town played a major role for the state in the oil boom of the late 1800s. In fact, for a brief period in the 1880s, Bolivar was considered to be the richest town in all of America—per capita, that is. If you want to take a deeper look into this period of New York history, then a visit to the Pioneer Oil Museum of New York is a must. It’s a candidate for the best small town museum in New York State.

Pioneer Oil Museum is driven by the belief that the oil and gas industries are important to the legacy of the region. They are dedicated to preserving artifacts from the early days of that industry.
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The museum also offers educational resources for local schools, and additionally exists as a center for research for any academics.
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The museum's many exhibits take a focus on, among other attractions, documents, maps, pictures, equipment and engines. For anyone interested in the history of energy in America, this museum will help provide some needed perspective.
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There are exhibits both inside and outside of the museum's walls.
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The oil reserves of New York State have gone through many developments. The first real boom was in 1881. The region went into decline after the collapse of oil prices in 1986.
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Don't forgot to pick up some of the museum's great looking merchandise!
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If you want to spend a day at the best small town museum in New York, and also learn a lot about the history of the region, then a trip to the Pioneer Oil Museum of New York is for you. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and then from 10 a.m. to. 3 p.m. on Saturdays. You can contact the museum directly if you would like to schedule a tour. While you are the Western New York are, it is definitely worth checking out Malek’s Brighton Bakery and the Chautauqua Harbor Hotel.

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Pioneer Oil Museum of New York, 395 Main, Bolivar, NY 14715, USA