Assemblywoman Addie J. Russell, D-Theresa, (l) presents a citation to Judy Keeler, president of the Alexandria Township Historical Society, recognizing the celebration of the 150th anniversary of the completion of the construction of the Cornwall Brothers store building at 36 Market St. The society's museum is located in the historic 1866 stone general store building, with changing exhibits about river life, boating and local communities. A new exhibit, "Re-Discovering FitzGerald and Lee," is now on display. The store closed in 1929 when a fire destroyed $40,000 worth of inventory during the economic struggles of the Great Depression. The building housed the U.S. Post from the 1930s to 1960, and U.S. Immigration and the U.S. Coast Guard were tenants in the building in the 1960s. After the mayor signed an order of condemnation for the building in 1973, a local group formed the historical society and began work to restore the building, which is now listed on the New York State and National Registry of Historic Places. "This building has been an exceedingly attractive and highly regarded destination for the community and visitors to the Thousand Islands alike," Assemblywoman Russell read from the citation. "... it continues to be a gathering place and destination that enhances the community and celebrates our river heritage." Assemblywoman Russell offered her congratulations to society members and those who support its cause, thanking them for their contributions and placing the focus on highlighting the important milestone in the history of the St. Lawrence River community.
