About
The Silver Lake Institute sits along the shore of Silver Lake, just outside the village of Perry and minutes away from Letchworth State Park.
Our mission is: "to enrich the lives of all who live here or visit by offering programs that celebrate entertainment, the arts, spirituality, education, and community".
Founded in 1857, its roots stem from the Methodist camp meeting movement, which aimed to foster spiritual renewal and strengthen community bonds. Although no longer affiliated with any religious organization, this tradition lives on, making Silver Lake a beloved haven for relaxation and connection with nature and each other.
Today, the Institute is recognized for its historic charm, its Summer Program, which include lectures, concerts and workshops and the strong sense of family and community which has developed.
Institute Leadership
President – Kevin Colburn
Vice President – Kris Schultz
Treasurer – Jill Knitter
Secretary – Jeanne Owens
The Grounds
Our Historic Buildings
Epworth Hall
Epworth Hall, a centerpiece of the Silver Lake Institute since its construction in 1892, stands as a testament to the charm and craftsmanship of 19th-century American architecture. Featuring a grand, two-story auditorium with towering windows and Greek Revival features, the hall exudes a timeless elegance. Its spacious interior, with a large stage and open floor plan, has hosted countless performances, lectures, and community events. The architectural beauty of Epworth Hall continues to inspire awe, making it a beloved landmark in the Silver Lake community.
Stoody Hall
Stoody Hall, a historic gem within the Silver Lake Institute, reflects the simple yet elegant architectural style of the early 20th century. Its charming structure features classic woodwork, large windows that invite natural light, and an open layout perfect for community gatherings. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, Stoody Hall has long been a gathering place for educational programs, social events, and local celebrations. Its enduring architecture and history continue to make it a vital and beloved part of the Silver Lake Institute
Hoag Art Gallery
Hoag Art Gallery, nestled within the picturesque setting of the Silver Lake Institute, is a vibrant space that celebrates both local and regional artistry. Originally built in 1892 the gallery’s modest yet inviting architecture offers an intimate setting for exhibitions, workshops, and creative gatherings. With its classic wooden framework and abundant natural light, Hoag Art Gallery provides an inspiring environment for artists and visitors alike. It stands as a cultural hub, fostering artistic expression and community engagement within the Silver Lake community.
The Heritage Walkway
The Heritage Walkway at the Silver Lake Institute is a charming brick paver path that leads to the picturesque Blue Dock on Silver Lake. Comprised of personalized memorial bricks, the walkway is a heartfelt tribute where individuals and families commemorate loved ones, celebrate cherished memories, and leave lasting legacies. This special path not only enhances the natural beauty of the lakeside but also fosters a sense of connection and reflection for the community and its visitors.
Sea Serpent Marker
In 1855, the owner of the Walker Hotel crafted a clever hoax to attract guests, inspired by Seneca Nation tales of a slug-like monster in Silver Lake. He and friends built a fake serpent using wire, canvas, and bellows, releasing it on moonlit nights to spook fishermen and spark rumors. The ploy worked, drawing crowds until 1857, when a fire revealed the charred remains of the creature. Today, the story is celebrated with an annual Sea Serpent Festival featuring parades, art installations, and replicas of the legendary serpent, honoring the whimsical tale that endures in local lore.
Burt Park
Located at the heart of the Silver Lake Institute, Burt Park was originally home to the Institute’s amphitheater, this area once resounded with powerful sermons . Today, it serves as a multi-purpose recreational hub, featuring a playground, a pickleball court, baseball diamond, and serene areas for passive recreation. Named in honor of William Burt, an American pastor, missionary, and Methodist Bishop who was instrumental in supporting the Institute. In 1919, amidst financial challenges at the Silver Lake Institute, Bishop Burt played a crucial role in fundraising efforts, making significant personal contributions and helping to secure the future of this cherished space.
The Greenway
The Silver Lake Institute Greenway spans approximately 1,200 feet of waterfront property owned by the Institute and shared with our residents. Once occupied by train tracks, the Greenway has transformed into a area perfect for leisurely strolls and enjoying the stunning views, as well as engaging in recreational activities. This area serves as the heart of the Institute, coming alive each July rd for our annual Independence Day celebrations and fireworks. Leased waterfront spaces, connected to some cottages, are available for residents, subject to a waitlist.
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The Historic District
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The Silver Lake Institute Historic District, established in the late 19th century, is a charming lakeside community known for its unique collection of Victorian-era cottages. Originally developed as a religious and educational retreat, the district features a variety of architectural styles, including Carpenter Gothic and Queen Anne, that give the area its distinct character. These cottages, with their ornate woodwork, gabled roofs, and inviting porches, evoke a timeless sense of summer living. Many of the original structures have been lovingly preserved, making the Silver Lake Institute a captivating destination for history enthusiasts and those who appreciate the craftsmanship of early American architecture.
Our History
History of the Silver Lake Institute
Prior to the Silver Lake Location 1848 – 1872
From 1848 to 1872, there was a campground in Bergen Called Genesee Campground. It was the site of camp meetings supported by churches of the Genesee Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In 1857, the state legislature issued a charter to the Genesee Campground Association. History records that conference camp meetings were held yearly with considerable success.
Early Silver Lake History beginning in 1872
In February 1872, a committee was appointed to find a new location and a 15-acre site on Silver Lake, on land owned by Oliver C. Chapman, was chosen. The Bergen grounds were sold in September 1872, and the Silver Lake site was purchased for $3,000. One who visited the site said, “There was but one building and that was a little place used by fishermen. This grove, beautiful above other grounds of a similar character, was purchased and consecrated for the purpose of a purely religious meeting.”
The first camp meeting at Silver Lake met August 12-22, 1873, and included an election of trustees. These officers were made a committee to stake out the avenues and lots. The grounds were named Camp Wesley, a name which held for many years. In 1874, an additional 24-acres were purchased.
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In 1877, the Campground Association reported to the conference that “the Conference Camp Meeting at Silver Lake, in all the elements of true success greatly surpassed any meetings held on these grounds during preceding years. A Sunday School Institute was also held in connection with this meeting.” It was in this year that the charter was amended which made voters of those who were male members of the Methodist Episcopal Church, 21-years of age, residing in the bounds of the Genesee Conference and owning a tent, lot, or cottage on the grounds. In May 1884, the charter was again amended, at the request of the Association, to provide for the election of nine trustees by the Genesee Conference, three in each class for three-year terms. The Camp Meeting trustees were elected one each year for a nine-year term until 1894, when they were divided into three-year classes. At that time, Voters were required to be owners of real estate on the grounds, women were made voters, and two-thirds of the elected trustees had to be members of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Building of Epworth Hall , the W.C.T.U Building, and Hoag Art Gallery
In 1892, Epworth Hall and the W.C.T.U. Building were built. The latter was renamed the John Stoody Memorial Chapel, in appreciation for the contribution of the Rev. John H. Stoody, who in 1895 bought some of the mortgages and deeded the property back to the Assembly. In 1895, Wilbur N. Hoag of Akron gave the Assembly the Hoag Memorial Art Gallery.
Impact of Economic Depression in the 1890’s
Silver Lake has felt the impact of changes in the economy. Following what was referred to as “the Cleveland Depression” in the 1890’s, the Assembly experienced difficulties when mortgages were foreclosed. In 1905, the Hall of Philosophy was bought by a doctor who transformed it into a sanitarium. This failed and in 1912 a hotel company operated it as a summer hotel. When this failed, a group of businessmen in Perry bought the property for use as a Military and Naval School. This prospered for a few years, and after being vacant for a while, a group of persons related to the Genesee Conference bought it and saved it for the Conference.
Early 1900 Through the Later 1900’s
Through the 1900’s, Silver Lake has been the site of lab schools, schools of missions, men’s retreats, and children’s youth camps, as well as serving as a retreat center for local churches. In 1958, the Institute Trustees deeded what is known as Camp Asbury to the Conference for the sum of $1 plus additional consideration and an agreement as to how the Camp would relate to the Institute. The Camp was to remain as an integral part of the Silver Lake Institute. Since then and up until the uniting of the Western New York Conference into the Upper New York Conference in 2010, the Conference programmed Camp Asbury with weeklong Summer youth and children camps along with hosting numerous retreat and conference groups throughout the year. The Silver Lake Institute continued to hold many religious, cultural and educational programs which included Sunday worship experiences, Wednesday evening programs, Thursday evening concerts and weekday classes in painting, and other art forms, all scheduled during the summer months.
In 1983, Silver Lake Institute was listed on the National Register of Historic Places
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Upper New York Conference Request for Separation, 2013
In 2013 the Upper New York Conference of the Methodist Church requested that the two Boards of Trustees work out a separation agreement which would clearly state that the Silver Lake Institute was a separate identity. Negotiations continued until 2016 when a separation agreement was signed by both Boards of Trustees. The Silver Lake Institute applied for a continuation of their “Not for Profit Status” as a Charitable Organization and were able to continue their Charter with the State of New York through an agreement signed by both parties which was filed in Wyoming County Court on February 16, 2016.
Although there is now a separation of the Institute and the United Methodist Church we celebrate our heritage and continue the fine relationship and cooperation with Camp Asbury.
Renaissance Period, 2015
In and around the period of separation, the Silver Lake Institute (SLI) has enjoyed a renaissance of spiritual, educational and cultural activities. In 2015, and with hopes to continue the event every two years, the SLI, in collaboration with The Asbury Retreat Center, held a Silver Lake Experience modeled after a mini Chautauqua program. Special activities and full summer programs were also implemented.
Continuation of the Tradition
The Board of Trustees endeavors to administer the affairs of the Institute within the limits of available resources, while trying to be faithful to the purpose for which the Institute was founded as set forth in the charter. Perhaps, with this brief view of our past and a sense of commitment to the present and future, the tribute written by Rev. A. F. Colburn in 1903 is appropriate: “Silver Lake had a history sacred to Methodism and we trust a future equally valuable. Its history extends back to the old Conference meeting grounds at Bergen. The meetings of those years had a pronounced effect upon the spiritual life of this Conference....On these beautiful grounds, hundreds have entered the spiritual life and many have received the endowment of power for service. Friendships rare and lasting have
been formed. The best things in religion, music, oratory, entertainment, and instruction have been made available to many whose lives have been thereby brightened and broadened. Precious memories cluster about the place. It is consecrated by the prayers, toils, and sacrifices of the fathers. It is their legacy to us.” May it always be so!
