Our History

In 1852, Daniel Rand and Mortimer Wadhams opened a blasting powder company. The company was successful and continued as a local operation under the management of the founders’ sons until 1910, at which time it was relocated to Uniontown, Pennsylvania. The 290 acre property was acquired by the Monroe County Parks Commission in 1929 and became what is now known as Powder Mill Park. Inside the park lies a wonderful little amenity that dates back to 1933. Built as part of the depression era work relief program, the Powder Mill Fish Hatchery is today a remarkable example of a private/public cooperative effort that enhances the quality of life for the citizens of Rochester and its surrounding communities.

For most of its history, the Hatchery was operated and funded by the County Parks Department. In 2002, the Hatchery was closed due to budgetary constraints. In the fall of 2003, the Riedman Foundation generously stepped in to partner with the County and fund ongoing operations. Today, the hatchery remains owned by the County with all of the annual operating and capital expenses funded by the Riedman Foundation.

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