Ithaca

The history of Ithaca unfolds through its development as a commercial hub in the Finger Lakes, marked by the rise of industries like the Thomas-Morse Aircraft Corporation and Wharton Studios, known as the "Hollywood of the East." The community's spirit is highlighted by notable figures such as actress Irene Castle and civic leader James L. Gibbs, alongside significant institutions like Cornell University and Ithaca College. Ithaca's engagement with social issues, including its role in the Underground Railroad and student activism, reflects a legacy of community involvement and idealism.