The Western New York Genealogical Society was founded in 1974 to help preserve and encourage interest in the area's rich genealogical heritage. Our work focuses on the eight counties of Western New York - Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Wyoming, Orleans, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany - that were originally part of the Holland Land Company Purchase.Our primary objectives are:- To further genealogical knowledge and research.- To foster awareness of record preservation by government agencies.- To collect and preserve available records of early settlers in the eight Western New York counties.- To foster awareness of record preservation by government agencies, organizations, and individuals.