Cairo NY showed this pattern continued until the early 20^th century, which marked the gradual decline of horse-drawn transportation and its replacement, by the automobile. The “horseless carriage” would forever change the way Americans lived and tourist destinations like Cairo would benefit from this newfound mobility. But this proved fatal to the local railroad industry and the Cairo Railroad would close after the 1918 summer season. Iron from the railway was used for the efforts of America’s First World War. Visitors now arrived in individual autos, spawning the growth of filling stations and roadside souvenir stands.

Cairo NY Real Estate Today

The summer months continued to draw the crowds to the long-established Cairo Fair. Farmers, still active in their agricultural pursuits, were finding the additional income from providing boarding space very beneficial, and eventually some gave up farming altogether and expanded into full-fledged resorts, such as Glenbrook Farm in the hamlet of Round Top.

When the Second World War finally concluded, returning soldiers found a robust and growing home front. Larger families led to creation of expanded services and improved tax base. Even the scattered rural hamlets of Cairo remained active, enjoying the economic benefits of a population that would often double in the summer months.

Many new boarding houses were built during this expansion by now well established Italian and German families. A strong Chamber of Commerce developed. The town supported two all-night diners, a movie theater, department store, and other specialized outlets. Even proprietors of duplicate services shared and prospered in this market.

The early 1950’s saw the establishment of a small strip mall on the outskirts of the village. A few years later a divided state highway project was completed, paralleling the original State Route 23 (now renamed 23B). Some cheered the removal of heavy truck traffic through the village. Others declared it the death knell of the community’s business. Hindsight now tells us the outside forces, such as the influx of large franchise retailers, were working to diminish the effectiveness of traditional “mom and pop” businesses, even then.

The face of tourism was also changing. Contemporary visitors wanted valued-added features. Vacation options were expanding with competitive travel sites and the establishment of large amusement parks, casinos and other attractions.

The 1980’s marked a new period of infrastructure improvements and new growth. Constant during the town’s 200 plus years, have been its natural beauty and the friendly nature of its inhabitants.