Shortsville: Mill History, Railways, and Water Activities

In Shortsville, mills and railway history tell the story of the town’s development, while the Canandaigua Outlet adds nature and water activities. Parks, a railway museum, and special annual events offer different ways to shape your stay.

Mills and Railways as Part of the Town’s History

Theophilus Short settled in Shortsville in 1804 and built his first gristmill there that same year. It used the water power of the Canandaigua Outlet. The town was named after Short; it was originally called Short Mill. The name recalls a time when the area had numerous mills for flour, paper, and wool, as well as a distillery. Shortsville developed as one of the “Twin Villages” of Manchester and Shortsville, which began as mill towns along the Canandaigua Outlet.

Another focus of local history is the railway. The museum of the Lehigh Valley Railroad Historical Society is housed in Shortsville’s old train station. Its collection includes artifacts from the heyday of the Lehigh Valley Railroad and the Black Diamond Express. Those interested in railway history will find a tangible connection here to the local past, distinct from the older mill heritage.

Along the Outlet and in the Parks

Jones-Blunt Park borders the Canandaigua Lake Outlet. It offers opportunities for fishing, hiking, and family picnics. The Outlet also provides opportunities for fishing, whitewater canoeing, rafting, and kayaking in the Shortsville area.

Another park option is Budd Park. Its amenities include playground equipment, a baseball field, and basketball and tennis courts. When choosing your accommodation, it may help to consider which of these different recreational interests will shape your trip.

Events and Seasonal Experiences

The Shortsville Firemen’s Parade is an annual tradition dating back to 1939. It begins at St. Dominic’s Catholic Church on West Main Street near Route 21, proceeds along West Main Street to Water Street, and ends at the festival grounds in Budd Park.

Held annually toward the end of April, the Wild Water Derby sees participants travel down the Canandaigua Outlet in a raft, canoe, or homemade floating craft. The race passes through Shortsville.

From November to December, the Shortsville Reindeer Farm offers holiday visits with reindeer. Visitors can see the animals up close and take their own holiday photos in decorated barns and traditional sleighs; reservations are required. In February, visitors can tap trees, hang a bucket, and learn about maple syrup production at a very small “backyard sugaring” operation. This experience is for children ages five and up and is weather-dependent.

More town pages: Phelps, Canandaigua, Victor.

For the broader travel overview: Ontario County.