Do you remember the television show, “Petticoat Junction”? I’m sure you never thought it had anything to do with Delhi. It’s not what you think. Delhi has been the home of many industrious, intelligent, and artistic women.
This yarn will feature just a few of them.
Jennie (Curtis) Cannon ( 1855-1929)
Jennie (Curtis) Cannon married Henry White Cannon in 1879. Henry was related to the Cannon family who founded Cannonsville, NY. They lived in New York City and had a summer home in Delhi, on Main Street, where the Delhi Historical Society is now. The Cannon’s used the little park across the street from their home as a carriage and buggy park. The park was given to the Village of Delhi, to be used only as a public park. It’s now known as Cannon Memorial Park. It was renovated and redesigned by students from SUNY Delhi several years ago and is a lovely place of flowers, benches, Narnia-style street lamps, and the Little Free Library, thanks to the Delhi Rotary Club in 2024. Mrs. Cannon was very active in Women’s Suffrage and hosted meetings at the Cannon House. She was also a generous donor to the Cannon Memorial Library.
Candace (Thurber) Wheeler ( 1827-1924)
Candace (Thurber) Wheeler grew up on a farm where Delaware Academy is now, formerly the Sheldon estate. Her father, Abner Thurber, was a deacon of the Second Presbyterian Church, and a supporter of abolition. Candace married Tom Wheeler, from New York City. She took oil painting lessons from famous artists, including Frederic E. Church and George Henry Hall. Candace worked with Louis Comfort Tiffany in NYC. The beautiful stained glass window in the United Ministry was dedicated to Abner Thurber and given by the Thurber family in 1878.
Wanita (Whittaker) Lewis ( 1914-2017)
Wanita was born in the Town of Tompkins. In 1925 she moved with her family to Delhi when her father was elected Delaware County Clerk. Wanita married Don Lewis in 1933. She taught Sunday School, served as a Girl Scout leader and knit socks for the Red Cross during WW2. In 1962 she began working at the Delaware County Treasurer’s office and became an accountant in that office. Wanita was very active in many organizations. Her accomplishments were noted by people who encouraged her to run for Town of Delhi Supervisor, to which she was elected in 1973. While Wanita was Town Supervisor Eleanor Volante was Delhi Village Mayor. Here’s the tag line - Delhi became locally known as Petticoat Junction.
Some people may think it’s insulting to women but I knew Wanita and she told me this story. Wanita thought it was wonderful and so do I.
Cannon Memorial Park, Main and Franklin streets, Delhi, NY, unknown date. Little Free Library photo by Tracey West Hancock.
