Two hundred years. That’s the equivalent of ten generations that non-indigenous peoples have called Yates County home. Yet over those two hundred years, the population has remained remarkably steady. There were approximately 20,000 people living in Yates County in 1823, at its founding, and there are about 24,000 today.

Certainly there have been thousands of changes in the past two hundred years: transportation, communication, homebuilding, food processing, education and recreation, to name a few. But the same values of hard work, love of nature and friendliness have remained consistent over two centuries. It is a tribute to the hometown atmosphere and the relaxed way of living.

The people of Yates County appear to have taken much from the glorious natural wonders of the land. After all, when you come home to fantastic vistas, shimmering lakes, spectacular hills and no traffic jams, the effects of a “bad day" quickly melt away.

As we embark on this year long celebration of the bicentennial of our county, take time to drink in the beauty of this unique and glorious place called Yates.

Please enjoy this bicentennial video made by Aaron Mumby and Heather Tillman: