This year marks the 175th anniversary of the Town of Torrey’s official founding in 1851, making it the last of Yates County’s nine townships to be organized. Originally settled in 1788, Torrey was officially created from parts of Milo and Benton and named after Henry Torrey, then supervisor of Potter and chairman of the Yates County Board of Supervisors.
Located entirely within the town, the village of Dresden shares many services with Torrey, including a joint district where the town clerk also serves as Registrar of Vital Records. The Town of Torrey is notable for:
- Nine miles of Seneca Lake’s scenic western shore, offering panoramic views of vineyards and fields.
- Over 72% of the land dedicated to pristine farms and vineyards, including many family-owned and Mennonite-operated agricultural enterprises.
- An approximate population of 1,300 residents spread over 40 square miles.
Dresden, once a bustling harbor and mill town, is the birthplace of Robert Ingersoll, a famed 19th-century orator and freethinker.
The Torrey Town Hall is located at 56 Geneva Street in Dresden, just south of Main Street and near the historic Dresden Hotel site. Nearby is the downstream terminus of the popular Keuka Outlet Trail, a seven-mile path enjoyed by thousands of hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders annually. The trail follows the Keuka Lake Outlet River from Penn Yan to Seneca Lake at Dresden.
To commemorate the 175th anniversary, the Town of Torrey has formed a Commemoration Committee preparing a Time Capsule to be opened in 2051 for the town’s 200th anniversary. The capsule will include town records, current plans, photos, newspapers, and contributions from local businesses such as brochures, caps, stickers, and other memorabilia.
Grant Downs, chairman of the committee, said, “This project is a fun way to build community spirit today and for future generations, tying into the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary celebrations.”
The Commemoration Committee is seeking volunteers and suggestions for items to include. The first meeting is set for Wednesday, February 4, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the Town of Torrey Municipal Building, 56 Geneva Street, Dresden
