City at the Crossroads: Elmira in the 1860s

Despite its potential for growth, Elmira had stalled during the 1850s. Even though it was a transportation center with both railroads and canals, Elmira in 1860 was only home to a handful of industries including a woolen mill, iron foundry and pipe manufacturer. After being chosen as a military rendezvous, though, the town grew in leaps and bounds. The population nearly doubled to over 12,000 and new businesses formed while older ones grew. Pre-war Elmira had little crime and no police force. The war brought petty crime, prostitution, public drunkenness and the city’s first murder. The war literally transformed Elmira from a small town into a booming city, bringing new wealth which lasted well into the next century.