During much of the 1800s, wave after wave of new religious movements spread across Central and Western New York, earning it the title "The Burned Over District." And believe it or not, Yates County was home to a lot of that religious fire. Mike McKenzie is associate professor of philosophy and religion at Keuka College.
McKenzie combined his writing and research skills with the videography and editing talents of Keuka's Troy Cusson, to create a 60-minute DVD that takes viewers on a tour of many of the exact spots where these religions either got their start or caught fire.
"The Burned Over District: Religions of Central New York" doesn’t cover the entire district, but McKenzie and Cusson traveled throughout Yates County and into Wayne and Seneca counties and uncovered plenty of material nonetheless.
A copy of the DVD can be had by calling the College's Communications Office. The Burned Over District will be the focus of Keuka College’s next Community Luncheon Series presentation Thursday, Dec. 6.
