Local History - Cobleskill 100 Years Ago

By Wildert Marte

We continue our series of local history from the pages of the Cobleskill Index by our student intern Wildert Marte.

COBLESKILL — When I was researching what life was like in Cobleskill 100 years ago, I was surprised by how much has changed, yet some things still feel familiar. In 1925, Cobleskill was a small but growing town where agriculture, small businesses, and strong community ties shaped everyday life. People relied on local farms and shops, and social gatherings were central to how the town functioned. Reading through The Cobleskill Index gave me insight into what life was really like back then.

One of the first things that stood out to me was how engaged people were in local elections. Unlike today, where voter turnout is inconsistent, elections in Cobleskill were a major event. Even if most candidates ran unopposed, people took the process seriously. It was more than just voting—it was a way to ensure the town remained strong and prosperous. Social gatherings were another major part of life. The Masonic Club was a hub for entertainment, regularly hosting plays and community events. In 1925, they were preparing to perform Kathleen, a musical comedy that brought people together. Entertainment wasn’t something you just watched—it was something you participated in. Churches played a significant role in social life. Sunday schools were well-attended, and churches frequently held charity events to support struggling families. At the State School, student organizations like Pi Phi and Theta Gamma hosted discussions and performances, giving people a sense of belonging.

Cobleskill’s economy revolved around small businesses and farming. General stores, tailor shops, and blacksmiths provided everything residents needed. In 1925, a blacksmith shop announced its relocation, showing how even traditional businesses had to adapt. Farming was the backbone of the local economy. Livestock and equipment auctions were common, where farmers traded cattle, tools, and supplies. The Sheffield Milk Plant was one of the largest employers, reinforcing the town’s strong dairy industry. Unlike today, where grocery stores sell food from all over the country, people in 1925 relied on fresh, locally grown food. Transportation was evolving as well. A new bus line between Cobleskill and Cooperstown made travel easier, though many people still relied on horse-drawn wagons. At the same time, debates over water meters led to controversy, as some residents resisted paying for what had previously been free.

Life in Cobleskill wasn’t always easy. One of the most tragic events of 1925 was the death of Andrew Wilson, a local farmer who suffered a heart attack while tending to his horses. His death was a reminder of how physically demanding farm life was. Farmers also faced the threat of bovine tuberculosis, which endangered livestock and livelihoods. The state debated cutting funding for disease control, causing concern among local farmers who relied on healthy cattle to survive. Another sign of change was the closure of long-standing businesses. Several shops placed farewell advertisements in The Cobleskill Index, as families moved elsewhere for better opportunities. While Cobleskill was growing, it was also losing some of its old character.

Schools were expanding, and teachers signed new contracts for the upcoming school year. The State School played an essential role in training students for careers in teaching, business, and farming. Women were also making strides. The newspaper featured female attorneys and educators, showing that women were beginning to take on more professional roles. Though there was still a long way to go, it was a sign that change was happening.

The local theater was a major part of life, showing newsreels and films. In 1925, the town was excited about a movie featuring Alton Parker Blodgett, a Cobleskill native training with the Yankees. Seeing a hometown athlete on screen was a proud moment for the town. Music and performing arts also thrived. Fraternities at the State School hosted live music, storytelling nights, and theatrical performances, bringing people together. High school basketball games were also popular, with large crowds coming out to support their teams.

Researching Cobleskill 100 years ago gave me a new appreciation for how much has changed and how much has stayed the same. The town was built on hard work, community, and resilience—values that still define it today. The biggest difference is how much we rely on technology now. In 1925, people depended on local businesses, personal connections, and community events. While modern life is more convenient, I wonder if we’ve lost some of the close-knit relationships that made small towns like Cobleskill special. Even with all the changes, Cobleskill’s heart remains strong. It’s still a place where history matters, where community comes first, and where progress continues—just as it did a century ago.