Learn About Elmira, New York

Elmira Overview

Elmira is a city located in Chemung County in the state of New York, USA. It was originally inhabited by the indigenous Cayuga people before European settlers arrived in the late 18th century.
The city was officially incorporated in 1864 and quickly became a hub for transportation and manufacturing industries due to its location along the Chemung River.
During the Civil War, Elmira was home to a prisoner of war camp that held Confederate soldiers. The camp, known as Camp Rathbun, housed over 12,000 prisoners and had a reputation for being one of the deadliest POW camps in the North.

Elmira is known as the "Soaring Capital of America" due to its strong ties to aviation and gliding. The National Soaring Museum is located in the city and celebrates the history of gliding.
Mark Twain, the famous American author, lived in Elmira for over 20 years and wrote some of his most famous works, including "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer" and "Adventures of Huckleberry Finn," while residing in the city.
Elmira is home to the Elmira Correctional Facility, a maximum-security prison that has housed notorious criminals such as David Berkowitz, also known as the "Son of Sam."

Mark Twain - Famous American author who lived in Elmira and wrote some of his most iconic works while residing in the city.
Hal Roach - Legendary film producer and director known for creating iconic comedy duos such as Laurel and Hardy and Our Gang, was born in Elmira.

Mark Twain Study - Visitors can tour the study where Mark Twain wrote some of his most famous works.
Arnot Art Museum - This museum features a collection of American art spanning from the 17th century to the present day.
Chemung Valley History Museum - Learn about the history of the Chemung Valley region through exhibits and artifacts.

Watkins Glen State Park - Located just a short drive from Elmira, this park features stunning waterfalls and hiking trails.
Corning Museum of Glass - Explore the history of glassmaking and see stunning glass art at this world-renowned museum in nearby Corning, NY.

According to the 2020 US Census, the population of Elmira is approximately 27,000 people.
The population of Elmira has been steadily declining since its peak in the 1960s due to economic changes and industrial decline.

Elmira is located in the Southern Tier region of New York, near the Pennsylvania border.
The city is situated along the Chemung River and is surrounded by rolling hills and forests.

Elmira's economy is primarily driven by healthcare, education, and manufacturing industries.
Major employers in the city include Elmira College, Arnot Ogden Medical Center, and Hardinge Inc., a manufacturer of precision metal-cutting tools.

Elmira has a rich cultural history, with a strong emphasis on the arts and literature.
The city hosts several annual events and festivals, including the Elmira Street Painting Festival and the Elmira Jazz Festival.

Elmira Psychiatric Center - This historic mental health facility, also known as the Elmira State Hospital, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
First Arena - A multi-purpose arena that hosts sporting events, concerts, and other entertainment in downtown Elmira.