NORWICH – During early meetings of the Chenango County Historical Society (CCHS), preservation of a specific community landmark emerged as a priority.

On Oct. 28, 1938, The Norwich Sun printed the following quote, attributed to James S. Flanagan: “In this old courthouse where we are now meeting, citizens of this county have gathered for every important event and public occasion.”

In the summer of 1946, another article stated: Members of the Chenango County Historical Society will “oppose with vigor” any move to raze the present Chenango County Courthouse.

To honor this enduring legacy and the 80 th anniversary of CCHS’s first provisional charter, a special celebration will be held at the Chenango County Courthouse beginning at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 20.

As was done in 1938, the evening will begin by singing “American the Beautiful,” led by a cappella ensemble the Blue Parsley Boys. The group will also perform “Yankee Doodle,” much like singer Charlotte Sliter did at the CCHS annual meeting more than 80 years ago.