About the Town

History	Museums	Iroquois Central Schools	Marilla Country Store
Parks	Library	Fire Company

History

The Town of Marilla is situated on the eastern edge of Erie County, New York, bordered by the Towns of Alden, Wales, Elma, Lancaster and Bennington (in Wyoming County). The town was named after Mrs. Marilla Rogers, an early resident who was a highly-regarded local schoolteacher. Prior to 1826, Marilla was part of the Buffalo Creek Indian Reservation. It became an official township in 1854. Its good soils, rolling terrain and open space make Marilla an ideal place to live and work. Although largely agricultural and rural in the past, Marilla has slowly become more urbanized as a result of shifting demographics. Agriculture and farming, however, are still very vibrant within the town. The population of Marilla is now about 5,700.

Marilla boasts of four churches, one restaurant, two taverns, one country store, a town park, a primary school, a historical museum, a pavilion in the center of town and a library. It also has a gas station and convenience store, and two mobile home parks as well as many small businesses and roadside stands selling local products. We have a number of service organizations and youth and church groups which serve the community. Many groups make use of the large Marilla Community Center for their activities. During the summer, the town has a large Fireman’s Carnival, which is an important social and fund-raising event in Marilla. The carnival provides entertainment for young and old, especially those who come from the surrounding area to take part and enjoy the festivities. The renowned Fireman’s Parade is especially noteworthy. We also have Memorial Day and Veterans Day Parades that are well attended.

In 2004, the town will be having a sesquicentennial celebration, that will include many activities, parades, contests and historical programs.

The residents of Marilla are truly proud of their community.

Town Historian,
Hubert Kutter