Medina, New York

{{Use American English|date=January 2026}} {{Use mdy dates|date=May 2024}} {{Infobox settlement | name = Medina | official_name = | native_name = | native_name_lang = | other_name = | settlement_type = Village | image_skyline = Medina 2008-01-01 002.JPG | imagesize = | image_alt = | image_caption = Main and Center Street junction | image_flag = | image_seal = | seal_size = | etymology = | nickname = | motto = | anthem = | image_map = Orleans County New York incorporated and unincorporated areas Medina highlighted.svg | mapsize = 260px | map_alt = | map_caption = Location in Orleans County and the state of New York. | image_map1 = New York in United States (US48).svg | mapsize1 = | map_alt1 = | map_caption1 = Location of New York in the United States | pushpin_map = | pushpin_label_position = | pushpin_label = | pushpin_map_alt = | pushpin_mapsize = | pushpin_relief = | pushpin_map_caption = | coordinates = {{coord|43|13|13|N|78|23|12|W|display=inline,title}} | coor_pinpoint = | coordinates_footnotes = | grid_name = | grid_position = | subdivision_type = Country | subdivision_name = {{flag|United States}} | subdivision_type1 = State | subdivision_name1 = {{flag|New York}} | subdivision_type2 = | subdivision_name2 = Western New York | subdivision_type3 = County | subdivision_name3 = Orleans | subdivision_type4 = | subdivision_name4 = | established_title = Settled | established_date = 1817 | established_title1 = Incorporated | established_date1 = 1832 | established_title2 = | established_date2 = | established_title3 = | established_date3 = | established_title4 = | established_date4 = | established_title5 = | established_date5 = | established_title6 = | established_date6 = | established_title7 = | established_date7 = | extinct_title = | extinct_date = | founder = | named_for = | seat_type = | seat = | seat1_type = | seat1 = | government_footnotes = | government_type = Mayor–council<ref>{{cite web|title=Mayor |url=https://villagemedina.gov/mayor/ |website=Village of Medina |location=Medina |publisher=Village of Medina |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250810142615/https://villagemedina.gov/mayor/ |archive-date=10 August 2025 |url-status=live |access-date=10 August 2025}}</ref> | governing_body = | leader_party = | leader_title = Mayor | leader_name = Debbie Padoleski <ref>{{cite web |title=Medina elects Padoleski as new mayor |url=https://orleanshub.com/medina-elects-padoleski-as-new-mayor/ |website=Orleans Hub}}</ref> | leader_title1 = Deputy Mayor | leader_name1 = Scott Bieliski <ref>{{cite web |title=Mayor Padoleski, 2 trustees take oaths of office in Medina |url=https://orleanshub.com/mayor-padoleski-2-trustees-take-oaths-of-office-in-medina/ |website=Orleans Hub}}</ref> | total_type = | unit_pref = Imperial | area_footnotes = <ref name="TigerWebMapServer">{{cite web|title=ArcGIS REST Services Directory|url=https://tigerweb.geo.census.gov/arcgis/rest/services/TIGERweb/Places_CouSub_ConCity_SubMCD/MapServer|publisher=United States Census Bureau|accessdate=September 20, 2022}}</ref> | area_total_km2 = 8.74 | area_total_sq_mi = 3.38 | area_land_km2 = 8.54 | area_land_sq_mi = 3.30 | area_water_km2 = 0.20 | area_water_sq_mi = 0.08 | area_water_percent = | area_metro_footnotes = | area_metro_km2 = | area_metro_sq_mi = | area_rank = | elevation_footnotes = | elevation_m = | elevation_ft = 525 | elevation_point = | elevation_max_footnotes = | elevation_max_m = 590 | elevation_max_ft = 590 | elevation_max_point = S border of village near SW corner along NY 31 | elevation_max_rank = | elevation_min_footnotes = | elevation_min_m = | elevation_min_ft = 453 | elevation_min_point = Glenwood Lake | elevation_min_rank = | population_as_of = 2020 | population_footnotes = | population_total = 6047 | pop_est_as_of = | pop_est_footnotes = | population_est = | population_rank = | population_density_km2 = 707.76 | population_density_sq_mi = 1832.98 | population_metro_footnotes = | population_metro = | population_density_metro_km2 = | population_density_metro_sq_mi = | population_density = | population_density_rank = | population_blank1_title = | population_blank1 = | population_density_blank1_km2 = | population_density_blank1_sq_mi = | population_blank2_title = | population_blank2 = | population_density_blank2_km2 = | population_density_blank2_sq_mi = | population_demonym = | population_note = | demographics_type1 = | demographics1_footnotes = | demographics1_title1 = | demographics1_info1 = | demographics_type2 = | demographics2_footnotes = | demographics2_title1 = | demographics2_info1 = | timezone1 = EST | utc_offset1 = -5 | timezone1_DST = EDT | utc_offset1_DST = -4 | timezone2 = | utc_offset2 = | timezone2_DST = | utc_offset2_DST = | postal_code_type = ZIP Code | postal_code = 14103 | postal2_code_type = | postal2_code = | area_code_type = | area_code = 585 | geocode = | iso_code = | blank_name = | blank_info = | blank1_name = | blank1_info = | blank2_name = | blank2_info = | blank_name_sec2 = FIPS code | blank_info_sec2 = 36-46415 | blank1_name_sec2 = GNIS feature ID | blank1_info_sec2 = 0956905 | blank2_name_sec2 = Wikimedia Commons | blank2_info_sec2 = Medina, New York | website = [http://www.villagemedina.gov www.VillageMedina.gov] | footnotes = }}

'''Medina'''{{efn|Pronounced {{IPAc-en|m|ᵻ|ˈ|d|aɪ|n|ə}} {{respell|mih|DY|nə}}<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wtd3_hQLGCA|title=What Is Medina?|last=Misiti|first=Amanda|date=July 18, 2016|medium=Video|language=en|website=YouTube|access-date=July 23, 2022}}</ref>}} is a village in the towns of Shelby and Ridgeway in Orleans County, New York, United States. It is located approximately 10 miles south of Lake Ontario. As of the 2020 census, Medina had a population of 6,047, making it the county's most populous municipality.<ref name="Census2020PLLede">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census Redistricting Data (Public Law 94-171)|url=https://api.census.gov/data/2020/dec/pl?get=NAME%2CP1_001N&for=place%3A46415&in=state%3A36|website=United States Census Bureau|year=2021|access-date=March 6, 2026|df=mdy}}</ref> The village was named by its surveyor, Ebenezer Mix.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|title=Let's Look Back...An Account of The Pioneer Origins of Medina, NY|date=July 14, 1982|work=The Journal-Register}}</ref><ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=6–7, 40}}</ref> It is part of the Rochester Metropolitan Statistical Area. The Medina ZIP Code, 14103, encompasses the village of Medina and the surrounding towns of Ridgeway and Shelby.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.zipdatamaps.com/14103|title=Interactive Zipcode 14103 Map Codes|website=zipdatamaps.com/|access-date=June 26, 2018}}</ref>

The village developed after construction of the Erie Canal, which bends as it passes through the village, creating a basin that served as a stopover point. This became the center of businesses that served trade and passenger traffic on canal boats. In addition, mills were constructed on Oak Orchard Creek to take advantage of its water power. The fertile lands around the village yielded fruit which was exported to major markets of New York City and west via the canal. At the start of the 20th century, Medina was a thriving industrial town.

Medina is located about an hour drive from two major cities, Rochester, to the east, and Buffalo, to the west. It is also about 30 minutes from two small cities, Batavia and Lockport. ==History== Joseph Ellicott, the agent of the Holland Land Company, once owned land that encompassed part of the village, purchased from the Holland Land Company.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=2–3, 38}}</ref> With the opening of the Erie Canal through Medina, the village enjoyed more trade and business associated with freight and passengers on canal boats.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our History |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=8}}</ref>

The Village of Medina was incorporated March 3, 1832, creating an entity contained within the two towns of Ridgeway and Shelby.<ref name=":0" /> The charter of incorporation called for five Trustees to be elected as village officials.<ref name=":12">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our History |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=16}}</ref> That same year the first printing press was set up in the village and the first newspaper published, The Medina Herald.<ref name=":9">{{Cite news|title=1922: Journal Review|date=August 30, 1976|work=The Journal-Register}}</ref>

In 1852, the railroad arrived in Medina and passenger service quickly became popular.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=62}}</ref>

===Early Industry=== Medina's first known industry was an ashery.<ref name=":13">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=6}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |date=August 30, 1976 |journal=The Journal-Register |title=Medina Review (The story of a canal town written in the mood of 1922) |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn93063954/1976-08-30/ed-1/seq-20/ |language=en |issue=1976/08/30 |pages=20}}</ref> The area was mostly covered in trees and brush when Ebenezer Mix was assigned to survey the area.<ref name=":13" /> Clearing the area would have been necessary for the village to be laid out and the Erie Canal built. An ashery would convert hardwood ash into lye or other usable products.<ref>{{Cite journal |date=December 22, 1976 |journal=The Journal-Register |title=Workshop "Fits" in Landmark House |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn93063954/1976-12-22/ed-1/seq-6/ |language=en |issue=1976/12/22 |pages=6}}</ref> Most of these industries would rely on the Erie Canal for their transportation needs.

====Mills==== Medina had a variety of mills over the years.<ref>{{Cite journal |date=May 25, 1899 |journal=The Medina Register |title=Medina's Boom |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn88074109/1899-05-25/ed-1/seq-3/ |language=en |issue=1899/05/25 |pages=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |date=June 19, 1879 |journal=The Medina Tribune |title=The Medina Tribune: Village and Vicinity |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn83031556/1879-06-19/ed-1/seq-3/ |language=en |issue=1879/06/19 |pages=3}}</ref> Grain and flour mills<ref>{{Cite journal |date=February 18, 1909 |journal=The Medina Tribune|title=Medina Union Mills |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn83031556/1909-02-18/ed-1/seq-6/ |language=en |issue=1909/02/18 |pages=6}}</ref> were very important to the area and built as early as 1830.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=63–68}}</ref> Two stave mills<ref>{{Cite journal |date=September 30, 1982 |journal=The Journal-Register |title=Image 7 |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn93063954/1982-09-30/ed-1/seq-7/ |language=en |issue=1982/09/30 |pages=7}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |date=May 12, 1906 |journal=The Medina Daily Journal |title=Plating |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn94057567/1906-05-12/ed-1/seq-3/ |language=en |issue=1906/05/12 |pages=3}}</ref> existed in the 1870s,<ref name=":14">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our History |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=68}}</ref> producing wood strips for the production of barrels. A Cloth mill also existed for a time though exactly when is not known. Saw mills were used for creating rough lumber and finished boards for other local industry.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=69}}</ref>

====Barrel Manufacturing==== The popularity of flour production resulted in a large need for barrels to transport the flour down the Erie Canal.<ref name=":14" />

====Foundries==== The Bignall Foundry<ref>{{Cite journal |date=October 14, 1915 |journal=The Medina Daily Journal |title=Building of the First Foundry Dam in Medina, 1871 |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn94057567/1915-10-14/ed-1/seq-3/ |language=en |issue=1915/10/14 |pages=3}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |date=February 22, 1965 |journal=The Medina Daily Journal and Medina Register |title=Blaze Ruins Portion of Unused Foundry|url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn91066521/1965-02-22/ed-1/seq-1/ |language=en |issue=1965/02/22 |pages=1}}</ref><ref>{{Cite journal |date=August 26, 1970 |journal=The Journal-Register |title=Gone Forever! |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn98067642/1970-08-26/ed-1/seq-1/ |language=en |issue=1970/08/26 |pages=1}}</ref><ref name=":19">{{Cite journal |date=October 4, 1972 |journal=The Journal-Register |title=Take A Trip Back -- The Medina of 1920 |url=https://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn93063954/1972-10-04/ed-1/seq-11/ |language=en |issue=1972/10/04 |pages=11}}</ref> began selling iron pumps, sinks, and more in 1861.<ref name=":15">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=70–72}}</ref> After several fires, the company was part of a consolidation into the Central Foundry Company along with two other local foundries, A.L. Swett Company and Beach & Co in 1899.<ref name=":15" /> The Central Foundry focused on soil pipe manufacturing. A.L Swett Iron Works<ref name=":19" /> opened in 1871 to manufacture hardware specialties and continued operations in Medina through the 1920s.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=71–72}}</ref> Beach & Co manufactured plumbing supplies starting in the 1880s.<ref>{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=72}}</ref>

====Furniture Manufacturing==== The Maher Brothers were the first large scale furniture maker in Medina, opening in 1882.<ref name=":16">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our History |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=73–75}}</ref> The family continued to run the business until 1928.<ref name=":16" /> S.A. Cook<ref name=":19" /> opened their furniture business around 1882, the Morris chair being among their most popular products.<ref name=":17">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=76}}</ref> In 1911, Mr. Cook built a large block on Main St which still bears his name today.<ref name=":17" /> Another large furniture company of note was the Empire Couch Company.<ref name=":19" /> They moved to Medina in 1902.<ref name=":18">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=77}}</ref> They successfully operated through the widening of the canal in 1913 but could not stay in business during through the Depression, declaring bankruptcy in 1935.<ref name=":18" />

====Medina Sandstone==== Medina is known for its Medina Sandstone, a stone used widely in buildings across the region.<ref>[http://www.eriecanalmedina.com/medina_sandstone.html Medina Sandstone] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080613091251/http://www.eriecanalmedina.com/medina_sandstone.html |date=June 13, 2008 }}, on ErieCanalMedina.com</ref> Some local examples include the "million dollar staircase" at the New York State Capitol in Albany,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Rethinking of Old Orleans|last=Lattin|first=C.W.|date=April 20, 1983|work=The Journal-Register}}</ref> the Richardson Olmsted Complex in Buffalo,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Medina Sandstone in Buffalo Spotlight|last=Rivers|first=Tom|date=February 23, 2013|work=The Daily News}}</ref> and in buildings at the University of Rochester and Cornell University.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Prospectus...Medina Sandstone Quarries|year=1899|publisher=Publisher unknown|location=Medina, NY|pages=6}}</ref> Sandstone varies in color from light grey to a deep reddish brown.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Landmarks of Orleans County|publisher=Signor|year=1894|pages=153}}</ref>

The first commercial sandstone quarry was opened in 1837 by John Ryan.<ref name=":4">{{Cite news|title=Only Memories Remain Of Sandstone Industry|last=Hudnut|first=Jim|date=February 8, 1985|work=The Journal-Register}}</ref> At their peak, sandstone quarries were one of the largest employers in the county with upwards of 2,000 employees.<ref name=":4" /> With the discovery of cheaper alternatives, Medina Sandstone's popularity began to decline around World War 1.<ref name=":4" />

===Pearl Street Armory=== In 1901, a State Armory was built of Medina Sandstone and located on the corner of Pearl St and Prospect Ave.<ref name=":11">{{Cite book |last=Grinnell |first=E.W. |title=Medina, Here's To Our Heritage |publisher=Medina Historical Society |pages=136–139}}</ref> Company F moved into the facility in 1902 with units serving in WWI and WWII. The Armory was officially closed by NYS in 1977.<ref name=":11" /><ref>{{Cite news |date=February 17, 1977 |title=Guardsmen set to face sad ritual |work=The Journal Register |url=http://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn93063954/1977-02-17/ed-1/seq-1/}}</ref> Company F records can found at Lee-Whedon Memorial Library. A bronze statue and memorial was erected in front of the building in honor of Company F in 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Bronze statue of soldier dedicated in Medina {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/bronze-statue-of-soldier-dedicated-in-medina/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> The building now houses the YMCA.<ref>{{Cite news |date=October 12, 1978 |title=Armory Will Open for Area Use |pages=1 |work=The Journal-Register |url=http://nyshistoricnewspapers.org/lccn/sn93063954/1978-10-12/ed-1/seq-1/}}</ref>

===POW Camp=== Medina's Heinz factory<ref name=":19" /> housed a POW camp from 1943 to 1946.<ref>{{Cite news|title=PW Camp Closes at Medina|date=February 12, 1946|work=Democrat and Chronicle}}</ref> Seventy-one Italian soldiers arrived at the Heinz barracks in September 1943.<ref name=":1">{{Cite news|title=Italian Prisoners Arrive Here For Work In Processing Plants Replacing Army Men|date=September 29, 1943|work=Medina Daily Journal}}</ref> They were allowed to work at the Heinz factory, local farms, or other local factories.<ref name=":1" /> In May 1944, the Italian soldiers were moved to a new location and replaced with 116 German soldiers.<ref>{{Cite news|title=Medina Gets 116 Soldiers for Plant Job|last=Rich|first=Virginia|date=May 29, 1944|work=Democrat and Chronicle}}</ref>

During their tenure in Medina, the German prisoners went on strike to protest the smoking regulations at the Heinz factory.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news|title=Local Prisoners Back At Work Following Strike Here Friday|date=August 7, 1944|work=Medina Daily Journal}}</ref> The soldiers wanted to smoke in the factory building and on the loading platforms.<ref name=":2" /> After having all of their possessions removed and not being allowed to sleep in the barracks, all of the soldiers voluntarily returned to work the following day.<ref name=":2" />

In 1946, the Heinz camp was closed and all remaining prisoners were moved to local military installations in preparation for their return to Germany.<ref name=":3">{{Cite news|title=Medina Prison Camp Closed as PW's Are Being Evacuated|date=February 11, 1946|work=Medina Daily Journal}}</ref> During its use, the Heinz barracks housed up to 300 soldiers and 50 military police.<ref name=":3" />

===Recent history=== In 2015, village residents voted to keep Medina an incorporated village,<ref>{{Cite news|title=Medina voters say 'No' to dissolution|last=McDermott|first=Meagan|date=January 21, 2015|work=Democrat and Chronicle}}</ref> despite having the highest effective property tax rate in the Finger Lakes region according to a 2016 Empire Center report.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.empirecenter.org/publications/medina-had-highest-tax-rate-in-finger-lakes/|title=Medina had Highest Tax Rate in Finger Lakes|website=Empire Center|date=June 9, 2016 |access-date=July 26, 2018}}</ref>

The Main Street Historic District, Medina Armory, and United States Post Office are listed on the National Register of Historic Places.<ref name="nris">{{NRISref|version=2009a}}</ref> The Payjack Chevrolet Building was added in 2012 and Boxwood Cemetery in 2015.<ref name="nps">{{cite web|url=https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/upload/weekly-list-2012-national-register-of-historic-places.pdf|title=National Register of Historic Places Listings|date=May 18, 2012|work=Weekly List of Actions Taken on Properties: 5/07/12 through 5/11/12 |publisher=National Park Service}}</ref><ref name="nps1">{{cite web|url=https://www.nps.gov/subjects/nationalregister/upload/weekly-list-2015-national-register-of-historic-places.pdf|title=National Register of Historic Places Listings|date=February 6, 2015|work=Weekly List of Actions Taken on Properties: 1/26/15 through 1/30/15 |publisher=National Park Service}}</ref>

==Geography== Medina is located at {{Coord|43|13|11|N|78|23|24|W|type:city}} (43.219808, -78.390101).<ref name="GR1">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/geographies/reference-files/time-series/geo/gazetteer-files.html|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=April 23, 2011|date=February 12, 2011|title=US Gazetteer files: 2010, 2000, and 1990}}</ref>

According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of {{convert|3.3|sqmi|km2}}, of which {{convert|3.3|sqmi|km2}} is land and {{convert|0.1|sqmi|km2}} (2.39%) is water.

Medina lies at the junction of east–west highway NYS Route 31 and north–south highway NYS Route 63. In addition, Medina marks the location where NYS Route 31E and NYS Route 31A split off from NY-31.

==Demographics== {{US Census population |1870= 2821 |1880= 3632 |1890= 4492 |1900= 4716 |1910= 5683 |1920= 6011 |1930= 6071 |1940= 5871 |1950= 6179 |1960= 6681 |1970= 6415 |1980= 6392 |1990= 6686 |2000= 6415 |2010= 6065 |2020= 6047 |footnote=U.S. Decennial Census<ref name="DecennialCensus">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census.html|title=Census of Population and Housing|publisher=Census.gov|access-date=June 4, 2015}}</ref> | align = right | align-fn = center }}

===2020 census=== As of the 2020 census, Medina had a population of 6,047. The median age was 40.6 years. 21.4% of residents were under the age of 18 and 19.7% of residents were 65 years of age or older. For every 100 females there were 91.4 males, and for every 100 females age 18 and over there were 88.0 males age 18 and over.<ref name="Census2020DP">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census Demographic Profile (DP1)|url=https://api.census.gov/data/2020/dec/dp?get=NAME,DP1_0021P,DP1_0024P,DP1_0025C,DP1_0049C,DP1_0045C,DP1_0069C,DP1_0073C,DP1_0125P,DP1_0126P,DP1_0129P,DP1_0133P,DP1_0137P,DP1_0138P,DP1_0139P,DP1_0141P,DP1_0142P,DP1_0143P,DP1_0145P,DP1_0146P,DP1_0147C,DP1_0148C,DP1_0149C,DP1_0156C,DP1_0157C,DP1_0158C,DP1_0159P,DP1_0160P&for=place%3A46415&in=state%3A36|website=United States Census Bureau|year=2021|access-date=April 30, 2026|df=mdy}}</ref><ref name="Census2020PL">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census Redistricting Data (Public Law 94-171)|url=https://api.census.gov/data/2020/dec/pl?get=NAME,P1_001N,P1_003N,P1_004N,P1_005N,P1_006N,P1_007N,P1_008N,P1_009N,P2_001N,P2_002N,H1_001N,H1_002N&for=place%3A46415&in=state%3A36|website=United States Census Bureau|year=2021|access-date=April 30, 2026|df=mdy}}</ref>

98.9% of residents lived in urban areas, while 1.1% lived in rural areas.<ref name="Census2020DHC">{{cite web|title=2020 Decennial Census Demographic and Housing Characteristics (DHC)|url=https://api.census.gov/data/2020/dec/dhc?get=NAME,P2_002N,P2_003N&for=place%3A46415&in=state%3A36|website=United States Census Bureau|year=2023|access-date=April 30, 2026|df=mdy}}</ref>

There were 2,584 households in Medina, of which 27.2% had children under the age of 18 living in them. Of all households, 32.1% were married-couple households, 20.7% were households with a male householder and no spouse or partner present, and 35.6% were households with a female householder and no spouse or partner present. About 37.2% of all households were made up of individuals and 15.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older.<ref name="Census2020DP"/>

There were 2,820 housing units, of which 8.4% were vacant. The homeowner vacancy rate was 2.4% and the rental vacancy rate was 6.4%.<ref name="Census2020DP"/>

{| class="wikitable" |+ Racial composition as of the 2020 census<ref name="Census2020PL"/> ! Race !! Number !! Percent |- | White || 4,978 || 82.3% |- | Black or African American || 370 || 6.1% |- | American Indian and Alaska Native || 23 || 0.4% |- | Asian || 45 || 0.7% |- | Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander || 3 || 0.0% |- | Some other race || 165 || 2.7% |- | Two or more races || 463 || 7.7% |- | ''Hispanic or Latino (of any race)'' || 348 || 5.8% |}

===2000 census=== As of the census<ref name="GR2">{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov |publisher=United States Census Bureau |access-date=January 31, 2008 |title=U.S. Census website }}</ref> of 2000, there were 6,415 people, 2,567 households, and 1,576 families residing in the village. The population density was {{convert|1,962.1|PD/sqmi|PD/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. There were 2,796 housing units at an average density of {{convert|855.2|/sqmi|/km2|sp=us|adj=off}}. The racial makeup of the village was 87.89% White, 7.56% African American, 0.59% Native American, 0.56% Asian, 0.03% Pacific Islander, 1.62% from other races, and 1.75% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 3.83% of the population.

There were 2,567 households, out of which 31.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 42.3% were married couples living together, 15.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 38.6% were non-families. 32.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 16.3% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.41 and the average family size was 3.07.

In the village, the population was spread out, with 26.9% under the age of 18, 7.9% from 18 to 24, 27.2% from 25 to 44, 20.0% from 45 to 64, and 18.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 37 years. For every 100 females, there were 83.7 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 80.3 males.

The median income for a household in the village was $30,300, and the median income for a family was $37,857. Males had a median income of $31,857 versus $21,633 for females. The per capita income for the village was $16,138. About 13.0% of families and 16.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 24.7% of those under age 18 and 4.6% of those age 65 or over.

===Religion=== Over the years Medina has been home to many different populations. St. John's Episcopal Church was the first church in Medina, consecrated in 1828.<ref name=":5">{{Cite book|title=Medina, Here's to Our Heritage|last=Grinnell|first=E.W.|publisher=Medina Area Historical Society|year=1996|pages=269–282}}</ref> In the following decade, the First United Presbyterian, First Baptist, United Methodist, and St. Mary's Roman Catholic Churches were built. German immigrants started arriving in the 1880s and 1890s and built Trinity Evangelical Lutheran and St. Peter Evangelical Lutheran.<ref name=":5" />

At the turn of the century, the Polish community had grown so large that they built Sacred Heart of Jesus Christ Church in 1910.<ref name=":5" /> In 1930, the African American community built Glad Tidings Missionary Baptist Church.<ref name=":5" /> Grace Baptist Church, an offshoot from another local Baptist church in Shelby, was built next.<ref name=":5" />

More recently the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, Fountain of Love, the Islamic Center, Calvary Tabernacle Assembly of God, Grace Covenant, Holiness Pentecostal, and Morning Star of God in Christ have opened.<ref name=":5" /> The Church of God Pentecostal purchased the former United Methodist Church in 2016.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://orleanshub.com/bell-in-historic-medina-church-removed/|title=Bell in Historic Medina Church Removed|last=Rivers|first=Tom|website=OrleansHub|access-date=February 22, 2018}}</ref> In 2017, the Akron Free Methodist Church leased the former Sacred Heart Catholic Church and began having services.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://orleanshub.com/church-from-akron-will-reopen-former-sacred-heart-site-in-medina-for-services/|title=Church from Akron will Reopen Former Sacred Heart Site in Medina for Services|last=Rivers|first=Tom|website=OrleansHub|access-date=February 22, 2018}}</ref> Of the 15+ churches and religious institutions that have operated in Medina, 11 are still in the village.

Medina is featured in ''Ripley's Believe It or Not'' for St. John's Episcopal Church, known as the "Church in the Middle of the Road".<ref>[http://wikimapia.org/6192626/Saint_John_s_Episcopal_Church_in_the_Middle_of_the_Road Saint John's Episcopal - Church in the Middle of the Road]</ref>thumb|150px|"Church In The Middle of the Street" made of Medina Sandstone ==Government==

===Local=== Medina is governed by a mayor and four trustees.<ref name=":12" /> Each position has a two-year term. Elections occur every year. On numerically even years, two trustees and the mayor are up for election. On numerically odd years, the other two trustees are up for election.

===County=== See: Orleans County, New York

===State===

* The 62nd Senate District represented by Senator Rob Ortt * The 139th Assembly District represented by Assemblyman Steve Hawley

===Federal===

* The 24th Congressional District, represented by Congresswoman Claudia Tenney * US Senators representing New York State are Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand

===Courts===

* The 8th Judicial Division of the New York Supreme Court * The 4th Department of the New York Supreme Court, Appellate Division

==Economy== Medina is home to several international, national, and local businesses. Medina is also becoming a tourist attraction because of its historic downtown and location on the Niagara Wine Trail.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.vagabondish.com/reasons-visit-medina-new-york/|title=Small Town Travel: 7 Reasons to Visit Medina, NY|last=Richard|first=Mike|date=December 18, 2014|website=Vagabondish|access-date=April 25, 2018}}</ref>

===Business=== Here is a listing of some of the larger businesses in the area.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://orleanschamber.com/index.php/directory|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170227203010/http://orleanschamber.com/index.php/directory|url-status=usurped|archive-date=February 27, 2017|title=Chamber of Commerce Directory|date=October 22, 2018|website=Orleans Chamber of Commerce}}</ref>

* Baxter International- Baxter has one of their many facilities located in Medina. They manufacture a multitude of products for the healthcare industry, including IV infusion pumps and pharmacy automation.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.baxter.com/inside-baxter/about/overview/corporate.page?|title=About Us|website=Baxter|access-date=April 25, 2018}}</ref> * Velocitii, who specialize in business process outsourcing, opened in 2014. Their 20,000 square foot customer engagement center employs agents able to assist companies both domestic and international with sales, back-office, and customer support. Currently, Velocitii employs over 50 full-time employees across various industries including insurance, healthcare and medical, as well as software and technology. * Brunner International- Brunner International is a family owned business located in Medina since 1992.<ref name=":6">{{Cite web|url=http://www.brunnerinc.com/AboutUs|title=About Us|website=Brunner International|access-date=April 25, 2018}}</ref> A second facility is located in Niagara Falls, NY.<ref name=":6" /> They produce parts for commercial vehicles, buses, and trailers.<ref name=":6" /> * Hinspergers Poly Industries- Hinspergers produces protective polyethylene covers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.hinspergers.com/about/|title=About Us|website=Hinspergers Poly Industries|access-date=April 25, 2018}}</ref> * Pride Pak Canada- Pride Pak Canada opened a facility in Medina in 2016.<ref name=":7">{{Cite web|url=http://newyork.justgoodnews.biz/2015/11/11/pride-pak-canada-processing-200-jobs-in-medina/|title=Pride Pak Canada Processing 200 Jobs in Medina|last=Milligan|first=Noah|date=November 11, 2015|website=New York Just Good News|access-date=April 25, 2018}}</ref> They package salads and fresh-cut vegetables.<ref name=":7" /> * Takeform- Takeform, a signage company, is headquartered in Medina. They have won numerous awards in their field and own multiple patents.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.takeform.net/blog/awards-and-patents|title=Awards and Patents|website=Takeform|access-date=April 25, 2018}}</ref> * Western New York Energy- In May 2006, New York Governor George Pataki announced the construction in Medina of the first ethanol plant in the Northeastern United States. The plant began receiving deliveries of corn in October 2007<ref>[https://archive.today/20120909061033/http://www.niagara-gazette.com/slideshows/local_slideshow_298195419?position=1 Slide Show] on ''Niagara Gazette,'' October 25, 2007</ref> and was expected to start production in November 2007.<ref>[http://www.journal-register.com/local/local_story_299133151.html ORLEANS COUNTY: First corn received at new ethanol plant], ''Journal Register'', October 26, 2007</ref> Partial production began shortly thereafter, and full production was announced by GreenShift Corporation on February 25, 2008.<ref>[http://www.greenshift.com/news.php?id=242 GreenShift Press Release]</ref> Since that time, the Western New York Energy, LLC plant has been in production, processing significant portions of the local corn crop.<ref>[http://www.wnyenergy.com/ Western NY Energy LLC Website]</ref> In 2022, they expanded the facility to start production of industrial, pharmaceutical, and beverage grade alcohol.<ref>{{Cite web |title=WNY Energy launches high-purity alcohol with $38 million expansion {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/wny-energy-launches-high-purity-alcohol-after-38-million-expansion/ |access-date=August 11, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Tourism=== Medina is starting to grow as a popular tourist spot, appearing in several blogs and papers. The events, restaurants, and atmosphere of this small village have wide-ranging appeal.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://buffalovebirds.com/2018/10/22/weekend-getaway-art-installations-and-strangers-waving-medina-ny/|title=Weekend Getaway|date=October 22, 2018|website=buffalovebirds.com/|access-date=October 25, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.vagabondish.com/reasons-visit-medina-new-york/|title=7 Reasons To Visit Medina|last=Richard|first=Mike|date=May 30, 2014|website=Vagabondish|access-date=October 25, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/16334|title=Only Tunnel Under the Erie Canal|date=Oct 2012|website=Roadside America|access-date=October 25, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://skoogfarm.blogspot.com/2018/08/third-annual-farm-to-table-dinner.html|title=Third Annual Farm to Table Dinner|date=August 2, 2018|website=Skoog Farm Journal|access-date=October 25, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thedailynewsonline.com/bdn01/medinas-farm-to-table-dinner-is-expanding-for-second-year-20170703|title=Medina's Farm to Table Dinner|last=Krencik|first=Jim|date=July 3, 2017|website=The Daily News|access-date=October 25, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://succulentsandsunnies.com/2018/11/04/tamales-tequila-day-of-the-dead/|title=Tamales and Tequila|website=Succulents and sunnies|access-date=November 5, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://buffalonews.com/2019/03/27/inside-medinas-small-town-culinary-and-cultural-renaissance/|title=Medina's Small-Town Culinary and Cultural Renaissance|last=Bond|first=Francesca|date=March 27, 2019|website=Buffalo News|access-date=March 28, 2019}}</ref>

====Arts and entertainment==== There are several cultural and educational opportunities in Medina.<ref name=":10">{{Cite web|url=https://medinabusiness.org/member-listings/|title=Medina Business Association|date=October 22, 2018}}</ref> If you're more adventurous get locked in a room at Into the Enigma; you only have 1 hour to solve the puzzles and escape.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.intotheenigma.com/|title=Into the Enigma|access-date=April 25, 2018}}</ref> You can also visit the Medina Railroad Museum, one of the largest railroad and toy train museums in the state of New York. ''Ripley's Believe It or Not'' notes "the Culvert", as the only place where the Erie Canal passes over an operating road.<ref>[http://www.lowbridgeproductions.com/erie-canal-images-culvert.html Culvert Under the Erie Canal] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304082703/http://www.lowbridgeproductions.com/erie-canal-images-culvert.html |date=March 4, 2016 }}, Low Bridge Productions</ref>

Behind the historic downtown buildings, new modern art and murals can be seen. The mural project was an initiative of the non-profit Form Foundation. The first to be painted has been dubbed the 'Canalligator' and was painted in July 2020.<ref>{{Cite web|title='Canalligator' can stay; Medina approves 3 murals in historic district {{!}} Orleans Hub|url=https://orleanshub.com/canalligator-can-stay-medina-approves-3-murals-in-historic-district/|access-date=June 24, 2021|language=en-US}}</ref> The first mural was followed by geometric characters in September,<ref>{{Cite web|date=September 19, 2021|title=New mural with colorful geometric patterns being painted in Medina|url=https://orleanshub.com/new-mural-with-colorful-geometric-patterns-being-painted-in-medina/|access-date=June 24, 2021|website=Orleans Hub}}</ref> a traveler with his dog and cat in October,<ref>{{Cite web|title=Third new mural being painted in Medina {{!}} Orleans Hub|url=https://orleanshub.com/third-new-mural-being-painted-in-medina/|access-date=June 24, 2021|language=en-US}}</ref> and a mural of local pollinator flowers in November.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Artist nears finish of large mural of flowers in Medina {{!}} Orleans Hub|url=https://orleanshub.com/artist-nears-finish-of-large-mural-of-flowers-in-medina/|access-date=June 24, 2021|language=en-US}}</ref> All four murals can be seen behind buildings on the NW side of Main St.

The [https://www.medinaalive.com/ Orleans Renaissance Group], Inc.is a volunteer organization supporting and promoting the arts, culture and preservation in the greater Medina, New York area. ORG promotes the arts, cultural activities and preservation. Among their initiatives past and present include hosting the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra, Anonymous 4, Irish tenor Ronan Tynan; sponsoring the Canal Village Farmers' Market; hosting Medina's locally sourced Farm-to Table Dinner; partnering with local initiatives and organizations; initiating the restoration of Bent's Opera House; co-sponsoring Blue Thursdays summer concert series.

Medina's downtown area has been designated a historic district and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Bent's Opera House is included in this district, a historic venue for touring performers.

Medina has a variety of bars and restaurants to enjoy.<ref name=":10" /> Medina also offers a variety of pizza shops, diners, and fast food options. Medina has one stop on the Niagara Wine Trail: Leonard Oakes Winery has won multiple awards for their wines, including best ice wine in New York.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.thedailynewsonline.com/bdn01/leonard-oakes-honored-for-states-best-ice-wine-20170810|title=Leonard Oakes Honored for States Best Ice Wine|last=Diefenbach|first=Mallory|date=August 10, 2017|website=thedailynewsonline.com/|access-date=June 26, 2018}}</ref>

==Education== Medina has two K-12 schools, the [https://www.medinacsd.org/ Medina Central School District] and the [http://www.orleanscountychristianschool.com/ Orleans County Christian School]. The Medina Central School District is composed of Oak Orchard Primary, Clifford Wise Intermediate and the Medina High School.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.medinacsd.org/|title=Medina Central School District|website=medinacsd.org/|access-date=June 27, 2018}}</ref> All three buildings are located on the same campus. The Orleans County Christian School is a non-denominational, multi-church sponsored school.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.orleanscountychristianschool.com/|title=Orleans County Christian School|website=orleanscountychristianschool.com/|access-date=June 27, 2018}}</ref>

A branch campus of Genesee Community College, opened in 2007, is also located in Medina.<ref>{{Cite web |title=GCC hears how campus centers in Albion, Medina connecting to community {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/gcc-hears-how-campus-centers-in-albion-medina-connecting-to-community/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

Medina has one public library which serves the community, [https://leewhedon.org/ Lee-Whedon Memorial Library].<ref>{{Cite web |title=About |date=March 20, 2012 |url=https://leewhedon.org/about-us/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

==Culture and recreation==

===Park lands=== The village has seven different parks; all of which are open to the public from dawn until dusk. The majority of parks have swings, slides, and picnic tables; Rotary Park located on Main Street and the Medina Canal Basin park do not.<ref name=":8">{{Cite web|url=http://www.onestopmedina.com/parks.html|title=Parks|access-date=April 26, 2018}}</ref>

* Gulf Street Park * Gwinn Street Park * John E Butts Memorial Park - Has a skateboard park,<ref>{{Cite web |title=Skate Society sets skate jam in Medina, eyes finishing touches to new park {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/skate-society-sets-skate-jam-in-medina-eyes-finishing-touches-to-new-park/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=New skate park dedicated in Medina 'for all ages and all abilities' {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/new-skate-park-dedicated-in-medina-for-all-ages-and-all-abilities/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=New Medina skatepark is taking shape {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/new-medina-skatepark-is-tanking-shape/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> and baseball diamonds.<ref name=":8" /> * Medina Canal Basin Park - Offers docking facilities, electrical hook up, pump-out station, and potable water.<ref name=":8" /> * Pine Street Park - Playground with splashpad<ref>{{Cite web |title=Medina splash pad debuts during heat wave {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/medina-splash-pad-debuts-during-heat-wave/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref> * Rotary Park - All Season House, used by Santa in November and December.<ref name=":8" /> * State Street Park - Gazebo<ref>{{Cite web |title=New bandstand takes shape at State Street Park in Medina {{!}} Orleans Hub |url=https://orleanshub.com/new-bandstand-takes-shape-at-state-street-park-in-medina/ |access-date=August 18, 2022 |language=en-US}}</ref>

===Annual events===

* Ale in Autumn - Enjoy walking around downtown Medina while sampling beers from around the world.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://medinabusiness.org/ale-in-autumn/|title=Ale in Autumn|access-date=April 26, 2018}}</ref> * Beggar's Night - Geared towards children aged 10 and under, trick or treating at Main St. businesses * Olde Tyme Christmas and Parade of Lights - Annual event held the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Enjoy shopping and activities during the day and fireworks and the Parade of Lights in the evening.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://christmasinmedina.com/index.htm|title=Olde Tyme Christmas|access-date=April 26, 2018}}</ref> * Wine about Winter - Walk around Medina, sampling local and state wines.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://medinabusiness.org/wine-about-winter/|title=Wine about Winter|work=Medina Business Association |date=January 15, 2013 |access-date=April 26, 2018}}</ref> *[https://medinabusiness.org/sweets-in-summer/ Sweets in Summer] - Sweets tastings throughout the Historic Downtown area. *Faery Festival - Activities, dancing, and a parade geared towards children.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Medina Hosts 4th Annual Faery Festival|url=https://orleanshub.com/medina-hosts-4th-annual-faery-festival-on-saturday/|access-date=June 24, 2021|website=Orleans Hub}}</ref>

===Media=== Medina had several newspapers throughout the years, starting with ''The Medina Herald''.<ref name=":9" /> ''The Medina Tribune'', ''The Medina Register'', and ''The Medina Daily Journal'' followed. ''The Register'' and ''Journal'' merged becoming ''The Medina Daily Journal and Register''. The shortened ''Medina Journal-Register'' closed its doors in May 2014.

===Additional facts=== One of the oldest homes in Medina stood at 224 Eagle Street, a block from the Erie Canal, on the north side of town. This home was built in the early 1820s and was purchased by the Burnam family in the 1830s. It stayed in the possession of family members until around 1984. The house was torn down in 2012.

The Carl Company was a department store founded as a dry good store in Medina by Charles W. Carl, Sr.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://schenectadyhistorical.org/admin/wp-content/uploads/2010/07/2006.3-Carl-Company-Records.pdf |title= Carl Company Records}}</ref>

==Notable people== *John J. Bagley, former Governor of Michigan, was born and raised in Medina *Julie Berry (author), children's author *Silas M. Burroughs, was a former US Congressman who lived in Medina. *Silas M. Burroughs, son of the former Congressman, was born in Medina and became a notable pharmacist. *Frances Folsom Cleveland Preston, former First Lady, attended high school in Medina before marrying Grover Cleveland. *Carl Fischer, former MLB player *John E. Butts, Second Lieutenant, U.S. Army, Co. E, 60th Infantry, 9th Infantry Division, was awarded the Medal of Honor in WWII *John Ford, New York State Senator *George Kennan, author, lecturer and traveler *Craig Wilson, ''USA Today'' columnist *Melanie Green, professional golfer

==Notes== {{notelist}}

==References== {{reflist}}

==External links== {{Commons category|Medina, New York}} *[http://www.villagemedina.org Village of Medina], official website *[http://www.medina-ny.com Medina information] *{{Cite NIE |wstitle=Medina (New York) |display=Medina. A village in Orleans County, N. Y. |short=x}} *[http://sandstonesociety.org/ Sandstone Society], official website *[https://niagarawinetrail.org/ Niagara Wine Trail], official website *{{HAER |survey=NY-495 |id=ny2302 |title=New York State Barge Canal, Culvert Road, Northwest of Telegraph Road and Route 31 merger, Ridgeway, Orleans County, NY |data=2}}

Category:Villages in New York (state) Category:Rochester metropolitan area, New York Category:Erie Canal Category:Populated places in the United States established in 1817 Category:Villages in Orleans County, New York Category:1817 establishments in New York (state)