Pompey’ farming industry thrived though the 1800’s. First came the Erie Canal, which spurred the growth of Syracuse as an industrial area. Syracuse depended heavily on the agricultural products from the surrounding area. Goods could now transported to Syracuse and beyond on the Erie Canal and later on the RR that ran through Oran. And one-half of the trip to this market was downhill – literally. It was not laughing matter to negotiate a heavy load behind a straining and winded horse team. Wool from the sheep could be shipped to the woolen mills in Utica.

Suddenly there was a radical change – small, self- sustaining farms were going out of business. The Industrial Revolution changed the kinds of work for many people and so their diet was changed also; they wanted more fruit, lighter vegetables and even prepared foods. Motor cars pushed the horse off the streets so the market for hay and grain were gone. Herds of cattle and sheep were now raised on ranches out West where land and labor was cheaper than in Central New York.

Now entered the dairy cow – the demand for fresh milk was improving – the disadvantage was space and new equipment was necessary and that meant a substantial capital output. Pompey winters made it difficult to get the products to market, so you saw improvements in the roads.

Again, small farms were going out of business and there was a great land grab in the 50’s and 60’s. As the suburban population moved in, the decision making process in the town was being influenced more by non-farming residents. The Agricultural Districting Act was approved that saved the farmer from the tax increases that were inevitable with the need for more services. It also was meant to prevent the loss of fertile land for food production.

Agriculture has survived. Many of the non-farmer residents want to preserve the rural nature of Pompey. A Town plan is in the works now. Many needs are being taken into account. The intent is to preserve the natural beauty of the area that we all enjoy.