WAMPSVILLE — The Madison County Historian’s Office is offering a unique look inside some of Madison County’s most historic restaurants and locations this spring and summer. The History Where You Eat series offers guided tours of the eateries along with a talk by a local historian about their histories.

The series will begin on Thursday, May 18, at the Huff Brau Restaurant in Earlville. Attendees will hear about its history from Madison County Historian Matthew Urtz, including how a fire changed the Main Street intersection, followed by a tour of the Earlville Opera House led by staff of the historic theater. Two presentations will be offered, at 5 and 6:30 p.m. Seating is limited, and registration is required. For reservations, call 315-837-5100.

On Tuesday, June 20, the program will be at the Canastota American Legion. Canastota Canal Town President Joe DiGiorgio will speak about the builder of the home as well as Milton DeLano, a former sheriff, congressman and businessman. Following DiGiorgio’s presentation, representatives of the legion will offer a tour, which is generally not available for public viewing. Two tours times are available at 5 and 6 p.m. An outdoor barbecue to benefit the American Legion will follow. Registration is required and can be made by calling 315-366-2453. 

On Thursday, July 20, the program will visit Shelly’s Restaurant in DeRuyter. Urtz and Tromptown Historical Society President Danita Kinner will talk about the main intersection in DeRuyter was changed by a fire. The tour will start at 5:30 p.m. Seating is limited. Registration is required and can be made by calling 315-852-9927.

On Thursday, August 17, the program will visit Fat Bottom Grills. Urtz will lead a brief walking tour of the “Delphia Block,” and tell the story of its namesake Delphia Mertching. Following the tour, attendees will enjoy a meal at one of Madison County’s rockingest restaurants. Seating is limited, and registration is required. For reservations, call 315-510-3088.

The final History Where you Eat of the season will take place in September at the Oneida Community Mansion House. Details will be available soon  online.

The Madison County Historian’s Office began the History Where You Eat program in the fall of 2018. Since then it has held 10 events at eight restaurants throughout the county highlighting local history.

The program has drawn over hundreds of people out to learn a little local history while helping to support local restaurants, according to series organizers.