ELMIRA, N.Y. (WENY) -- The Chemung County Historical Society is celebrating its 100th birthday. That’s 100 years of preserving Southern Tier history for all to see. 

“Our job is to collect, preserve, protect and share the stories of our community.  you know, what the past was like, and maybe that will inform what the future might be like,” said Bruce Whitmarsh, executive director of the Chemung County Historical Society. 

Located in the old Chemung Canal Bank, the CCHS is the place to go for all things Chemung County. With exhibits about the roaring 20s, historically accurate clothing and uniforms, and the fan favorite mammoth tusk, history is well documented and kept alive within those walls. 

“I would like to think that we're an important part of the community, that we're a repository for the archives, documents, and stories of Elmira Chemung history. We hold that dearly and try to get that out and help people feel pride in place,” said Susan Zehnder, education director for CCHS. 

The celebration today was filled with community members who enjoyed some cake and live music from a historical band, Excelsior Cornet Band. CCHS officials say they are proud of the 100-year milestone. 

“Think about all the different organizations, and companies and businesses that come and go in less than 100 years, for any organization to make it to 100 years is pretty amazing, and especially one dedicated to collecting history to reach our own little historic milestone is a lot of fun,” added Whitmarsh 

CCHS is open to see the rich history of the Chemung area. They encourage community members to stop by and see what they have to offer. A link to the website is here.