I Ran Away to Penn Yan, New York & Found Myself

In late October, a journalist embarked on an unexpected and deeply personal journey to Penn Yan, New York, a village of approximately 5,000 residents in Yates County. The trip, undertaken with a sense of urgency, was driven by a need for escape and a long-held desire to connect with family history.

A Spontaneous Departure

The decision to travel was made swiftly and without consultation, funded entirely by credit card. The journalist was grappling with “profound losses and a deep, growing existential crisis,” feeling “raw, rudderless and fragile” and needing to distance herself from Shasta County, California. Specific calendar constraints influenced the timing, aiming to coincide with Election Day, Halloween, and the remaining fall foliage, while avoiding East Coast winter weather.

Why Penn Yan?

Penn Yan, settled in 1799 by people from Pennsylvania and New England, proved to be a surprisingly compelling destination. The area, situated at the north end of Keuka Lake, is characterized by wineries, historic cemeteries, churches, and well-preserved buildings. The journalist described falling “head over heels in love” with the village, noting its cleanliness, friendly residents, and sense of safety.

Did You Know? Yates County, New York, requires every municipality to have its own village historian, individuals dedicated to preserving and sharing local history.

Unearthing Family History

The trip was deeply rooted in genealogical research, specifically concerning a “tragic event” involving the journalist’s maternal grandfather in nearby Middlesex, New York. A decades-long quest to uncover details about this event led to a long-held wish to visit the region. The journalist felt a palpable connection to her grandfather throughout the journey, sensing his presence as she explored the area.

Unexpected Assistance

Research efforts were significantly aided by the generosity of local residents, including volunteers at the Oliver House Museum – Andy Baus and Bill Murray – who provided crucial records and newspaper stories. The Yates County History Center, Middlesex Heritage Group, Yates County Office of Public History, and Penn Yan Library also proved invaluable resources. The journalist expressed gratitude for the assistance received, noting the dedication of local history buffs.

Expert Insight: The journalist’s experience highlights the potential for personal exploration to drive professional renewal. Taking a deliberate step away from immediate pressures can provide clarity and a renewed sense of purpose, even if the initial impetus is deeply personal.

The experience was marked by unexpected discoveries, such as unattended roadside farm stands operating on an honor system and a supportive community network providing assistance during a federal shutdown. The journalist found a sense of peace and reconnection in the unfamiliar surroundings.

Looking Ahead

Upon returning from the trip, the journalist reported feeling “more centered and clear-headed.” This renewed clarity informed a significant pivot in her professional work. The research conducted in Penn Yan is intended for a forthcoming book detailing the story of her grandfather and the event in Yates County.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did the journalist choose Penn Yan?

The journalist chose Penn Yan due to its connection to her family history and a decades-long desire to research an event involving her maternal grandfather in nearby Middlesex, New York.

How was the trip funded?

The trip was funded entirely by credit card, a decision the journalist acknowledged was financially irresponsible but necessary to pursue the opportunity.

What was the impact of the trip on the journalist’s work?

The trip resulted in a renewed sense of clarity and informed a significant pivot in the journalist’s professional work, including research for a forthcoming book.

What personal experiences have prompted you to seek a change of scenery or pursue a long-held personal goal?