How the Finger Lakes Got Their Names: Some Upstate NY History

If you've ever been to the Finger Lakes Region, you're familiar with the beauty of the lakes, and the forest and picturesque, friendly towns surrounding the lakes.  The lakes themselves feature beautiful blue waters, popular for all sorts of on-water activities.  The forest surrounding the lakes move from the gorgeous newness of spring, to the rich greens of summer, and turn spectacular colors in the autumn.  Upstate New York is truly worthy of a bed and breakfast vacation!

However, there are some things about this region that aren't quite as obvious.  For example, have you ever paid attention to the NAMES of the Finger Lakes?  Some of the more notable monikers include Cayuga, Seneca, Oneida, Onondaga, and Canandaigua.  If you guessed that these have Native American origins, you are 100% correct!  Like so many natural landmarks, and even state names in the country, those who named the Finger Lakes gave a nod to the original inhabitants of the area.


The Haudenosaunee first came to this region as early as the 16th century... maybe even before that.  These "People of the Longhouse" consisted of several different tribes (who all spoke Iroquoian) whose matriarchal societies believed that the different peoples should live together as a family would in a single longhouse.

So what is a longhouse?  Honestly, it is exactly what it sounds like: a very large, single-roomed building that is long and narrow.  While there is plenty of space overall, those living in a longhouse are required to live closely and in harmony, as the narrowness of the structure requires close contact.

Five "nations" (or tribes) originally made up what is now referred to as the Iriquois League:  The Mohawk, Oneida, Onondaga, Cayuga, and Seneca.  Sound familiar?  Of course, four of these tribes' names were given to Finger Lakes.  The Mohawk River was named after its namesake.  All of these are also names of towns within the state.  Counties in NY also bear some of these names.  In 1720, the Tuscarora clan from North Carolina was also brought into the League (which now has a town named after them).

Of the New York-based clans, their tribe locale is roughly reflected in the features that bear their names.  This means, of course, that members of the Cayuga tribe likely walked the very land where the bed and breakfast is located today.

Why not visit and walk where they walked?  A welcoming room awaits you here at The Inn at Gothic Eves: your home-away-from-home.  Explore the many parks, the shores of the lakes, and see why the Iroquois loved this area enough to stay!

Plan a Winter Event Getaway in Upstate New York

Need a reason to brave the winter here in Upstate New York?  If our new Jacuzzi tubs and Birthday Special aren't enough, why not come for some of the great area events taking place between now and the end of March?  The Inn at Gothic Eves guarantees you a welcoming and comfortable stay during your visit!

February 9-10, 2013:  Cayuga Wine Trail's 11th Annual Mardi Gras Event
While we aren't New Orleans, we do celebrate our own style of Mardi Gras here in New York's wine country.  All 16 member wineries (http://cayugawinetrail.com/maps/1/trail-map) are participating.  During the event, you will receive all the traditional Mardi Gras trinkets, have chances to win great prizes, and you can try your hand at the Trail Scavenger Hunt to win a sampler wine case!  Advance-Purchase Tickets are $25.00 per taster and $20.00 per designated driver.  Price at the event is $30.00.  Tickets can be purchased in one of three ways:  online sales (http://cayugawinetrail.com/events/11/11th-annual-mardi-gras-february), calling 1-800-684-5217, or by stopping in any area Wegmans markets.

February 16, 2013:  The 15th Annual Great Downtown Ithaca Chili Cook-off
Come down to the Ithaca Commons where over entrants will be competing for the title of Best Chili in three categories:  Best Meat/Overall, People's Choice, and Vegetarian.  At least a dozen more vendors will provide miscellaneous drinks and food during the event (think cheese, chili-chocolates, sauerkraut, beer, wine, juice, and more).  A farmer's market, music, comedy, karaoke, performers, and competitions will also be featured during the event!  Event tickets are purchased for samples:  5 samples for $5, or 11 samples for $10.  VIP fast-pass packages are also available.

Feb 26, 2013, 7:30pm:  The State Theatre of Ithaca presents The Chieftains
This traditional Irish band is known worldwide for their work on their own recordings, as well as in movies and television soundtracks.  The rotating lineup was 50 years old in 2012, and are celebrating their Anniversary with a symphonic show which will also feature local musicians at each tour-stop performance.  Chad, one of the band members, even lives right here in Trumansburg!

March 9-10, 2013:  Cayuga Wine Trail's "Say Cheeese" Event
Another event sponsored by the 16 members of the Cayuga Wine Trail (http://cayugawinetrail.com/maps/1/trail-map).  Wine and artisan cheese pairings will be featured at each stop.  Take your best "cheesy" photos during the event and submit them for a chance to win a gift basket from the local Wineries and Cheesemakers.  advance Tickets are $30 for a single taster, and $45 for a couple.  Designated driver tickets are $25 and $40 respectively.  If you wait to purchase tickets at the event, the cost is $35 for a single taster, and $50 for a couple.  Tickets can also be purchased by calling 800-684-5217 or, stopping into any area Wegmans markets.

March 13, 2013, 8:00 pm:  Willard Straight Theatre presents SOLAS: Live in Concert
SOLAS is one of the most popular American-based Irish-American bands in the country.  The current tour highlights their latest release Shamrock City, telling the story of a Montana mining town through the eyes of the Irish.

This is only a partial list of all the great things happening at the start of 2013.  A full list can be found at the Visit Ithaca website.  But no matter the reason for your visit, choose a cozy Inn room here in Trumansburg where you can truly experience relaxation and comfort... and really get away from it all!

February Event Near Trumansburg: Wine and Chocolate Weekend

Earlier this month, this blog covered all the great chocolatiers in the region between Cayuga and Seneca Lakes.  And by now you're probably aware of the reputation the Finger Lakes has for wine.  But what would you say about an opportunity to combine these two wonderfully decadent treats?  I would like to personally invite you to plan a visit to the Upstate New York area during the Seneca Lake Wine Association's Chocolate and Wine Weekend on February 8-9-10, 2013!

However decadent, there are also proven health benefits of including moderate amounts of both wine and chocolate in your diet.  Wine drinkers tend to live longer, have fewer health problems (including heart problems, cataracts, colon cancer, and diabetes), and have a slower decline of brain functions as they age.  Chocolate provides antioxidants that battle free radicals, is an anti-depressant, also provides multiple health benefits (including lower blood pressure, lower LDL cholesterol, fighting cancer, removing plaque from arteries), and also improves overall brain function.

The event, which is co-sponsored by Lindt, features more than 30 area wineries.  Each winery features a signature chocolate-themed dish which they pair with their delicious wines!  When you return home, you can still experience some of the event's magic through the annual recipe book available at the event website.  Tickets are $35, and are available at the website above.

16 wineries on the event trail are convenient to the Inn - when you purchase your tickets, you can actually select your starting point!  For your convenience, you may want to choose a winery on the east side of Seneca Lake and proceed from there.

Along with the above-mentioned health benefits of wine and chocolate, there are also health benefits of choosing a bed and breakfast over hotel lodging for the event:  the true relaxation of a warm and welcoming location, a much smaller crowd, serene surroundings, and a delicious breakfast to start each day of your stay.  Here at Gothic Eves, you also get the benefit of a small-town setting with friendly people, great amenities, and the true relaxation afforded by the hot tubs and spa services available to guests.  So make your reservations today for this unforgettable event in an unforgettable location!

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To further tempt you, please enjoy one of the 32 recipes featured from the 2012 event:  Chocolate-filled Canolli with Wine Marinated Fruit, featured at nearby Wagner Vineyards:

1 1/2 cups dried fruit
1 cup Wagner Vignoles
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 cups ricotta cheese
1/4 cup chocolate syrup
1 1/2 cups confectioners sugar
8 oz. cream cheese
1 cup whipped cream
3 5-inch Cannoli Shells

Wine Marinated Fruit:
Finely chop dried fruit (i.e. dried cranberries, blueberries, raisins, pineapple, etc). Place chopped fruit in a medium-sized saucepan with Wagner Vignoles and granulated sugar. Bring to a simmer and reduce heat until it becomes the consistency of syrup. Cool in refrigerator for 30 minutes.

Cannoli Filling:
In a mixer, combine ricotta cheese, confectioners sugar, cream cheese and chocolate syrup. Mix until all ingredients are well blended and smooth. Gently fold in whipped cream and half of chilled, marinated fruit. Refrigerate mixture for one hour.

Fill cannoli shells with mixture and garnish with remaining marinated fruit.

Suggested Wine Pairing:  Wagner Vineyards Vignoles or Wagner Vineyards Vignoles Ice

A Cheese-Tasting Bed and Breakfast Getaway in Trumansburg NY

Photo from Muranda Cheese Co.

Quick!  Are you a turophile?

Wait.  What???

If you are lactose intolerant or afraid of the fat-content of dairy, then you most certainly are NOT a turophile.  However a large percentage of the American population at least enjoy cheese in all its forms.  Those lovers of cheese, or "turophiles" certainly enjoy exploring the depth of flavors and forms of this endlessly versatile food.

If you are one of these people, you'll be glad to know that it isn't necessary to plan a trip to the upper Midwest to enjoy a true cheese-tasting experience.  The Finger Lakes region boasts at least 15 dairies and farms that produce their own cheese, and six of these are here "between the lakes" within a reasonable driving-distance of Trumansburg!  Why not plan your Upstate New York vacation here at the inn and explore the dairy side of our farm-to-table philosophy!

Each location listed below may have hours that vary depending on season.

• Kenton's Cheese Company
  Right here in Trumansburg, the Burr-Ayr Farm has recently started producing their very own Bianco soft artisanal cheese with a mild flavor that pairs well with white wines and traditional fruit, jam, and cracker pairings.  While the location itself is not open for visitors or tastings, their cheese can be purchased locally at the Shursave.
• Lively Run Goat Dairy
  Just 6 miles north of the Inn, this small goat dairy in Interlaken is German-owned and run in the tradition of the Amish people.  A tour includes a visit to see the goats kept on-site (watch your hair if it is long!), a tour of the cheese-making rooms, and a tasting.  Lively Run specializes in Feta, Cayuga Blue, and Chevre cheese selections.
• Finger Lakes Farmstead Cheese Company
  Just 6 miles southwest of Trumansburg near Mecklenburg, Bronson Hill Cheesery takes locally produced milk from Taber Hill Farms cows and turns it into European-inspired cheeses including Schuyler (a Dutch-type cheese) and Red Meck (a French-style cheese).  You may also find cheeses from Kenton's and Vanillen available here.
• Vanillen Dairy
  Up in Ovid, about 16 miles north of the B&B, this dairy creates a soft, spreadable cheese product created from cows on the farm.  Spread it, toast it on bread, or include it in any recipe featuring soft cheese (lasagna, anyone?).  Their cheese can be found at the Finger Lakes Farmstead Cheese Company.
• Muranda Cheese Company
  Up in Waterloo, this farm creates a wide variety of cheese from Holstein milk.  Both traditional cheeses like Cheddar, Blue, and Colby are offered, as well as cheeses featuring flavors from area produce.  While this dairy is the furthest from the Inn, their tasting room is open year-round.  Their cheeses can also be found in a wide variety of area stores.
• Sunset View Creamery
  Creating everything from flavored curds to varieties of Monterey Jack- and Cheddar-style cheeses, you'll find Sunset 19 miles south of town in Odessa.  The family-owned business has great suggestions for cheese/wine pairings.

Special Wine and Cheese Events!

• January 12, and February 9, 2013:  Whey Local at Americana Vineyards (just 3.5 miles from the inn) will feature cheese tastings from a different area dairy on each date (Lively Farms, and Sunset View Creamery).
• January 26, February 23, and March 30, 2013:  Perfect Pairings at 10 different area wineries.  Cheeses from the above farms will be offered with wine-pairing options.  Tickets are $15.00 and can be purchased through the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.
• April 26-28, 2013:  Spring Wine and Cheese Weekend.  30 wineries will feature food/wine pairings.  Each food will feature locally made cheese.  Tickets are $35.00 ($25.00 for designated drivers), and are available through the Seneca Lake Wine Trail.

Plan a cheese-tour alone, or stop by the dairies during your wine- or beer-trail tour!  Either way, you'll experience flavors and fun that is unique to the Finger Lakes Region.  And when you stay at The Inn at Gothic Eves, you will be assured a personalized, first-rate lodging experience with amenities that will make your stay all the more memorable!

Finger Lakes Chocolate in Trumansburg, Ithaca and Beyond

By now you know about our local wine, beer, coffee, and organic food here in Upstate New York.  But have you heard about our chocolate?  A large part of the human population have a certain weakness for this delicious, serotonin-boosting treat.  And it just so happens that amazing things are happening in the world of chocolate right here in the Finger Lakes region!  What better treat/memento/present can you get during your bed and breakfast getaway than chocolate?

For at least as long as there has been recorded time, there has been chocolate.  The ancient Egyptians, the Aztecs, and the Mayans were all chocolate-lovers, to the point that it was integrated into some of their most sacred rituals.  Man has been trying to perfect the presentation of chocolate ever since.  While Cadbury and Hershey have made chocolate a common commodity to all; although some would consider such creations mediocre, at best, and strive to bring this unique food to its perfect form.

In and around Trumansburg, there are a number of businesses doing just that.  Without further ado, we would like to introduce you to the four nearest places to have an unforgettable chocolate experience!

Life's So Sweet:  just 1/2 mile west of our historic inn at 27 West Main Street
Building on over 20 years of experience, Life's So Sweet hand-crafts amazing chocolates.  Their philosophy of natural ingredients, true confectioners practices, Eco-friendly standards, and sharing the art makes this business one-in-a-million.  They offer tours, and will work with customers to create the perfect gifts and favors.  Besides amazing traditional chocolates, they offer gluten-free, vegan, and peanut-free options.  They also have a location at 116 West Green Street in Ithaca, if you happen to plan a day-trip there.

Lucienne's: just 3 miles southeast of the B and B at 1889 Trumansburg Road
True artisan chocolate bars made specifically from Ecuadorian beans.  16 variates available, including both a soy-free, and a dairy-free rice milk offering, as well as biscotti and cookies.  Lucienne's bars are also hold here in Trumansburg at the Good to Go! Market, and a variety of shops in Ithaca.

Rue Claire Lavender Farm & Artisan Chocolate:  15 miles west of Trumansburg at 9403 SR 414 in Lodi
Using organic milk, french chocolate, and occasionally the lavender that the farm is known for, this small artisan shop produces delicious truffles that will have your eyes rolling in pure joy.  Boasting an organic philosophy, the chocolates here are made with love and the perfection from the owners' training from a Le Cordon Bleu Master Chocolatier.

Whisper Chocolate:  34 miles from the inn at 444 Exchange Street, Geneva
This family business creates small-batch chocolates from European and fair trade chocolate, and local ingredients to assure freshness and seasonal perfection.  Featuring Chocolate barks, a variety of truffles, and dipped confections, you are sure to find something to tempt your taste buds!

Chocolate IS the perfect gift for any occasion, whether it be birthdays, anniversaries, celebrations, or holidays.  And when your vacation includes first-class bed and breakfast lodging here in Trumansburg, know that you are only a very short trip away from some amazing cocoa-based confections.  Your welcoming room awaits, and the chocolate will be what makes your visit even more memorable!