There is something magical about history when it steps out of the pages of yesterday and stands right in front of you.
Here at
Keuka Roots™, we love uncovering the people and stories that shaped our little corner of the Finger Lakes. Some are well-known. Others have faded with time. But few are as fascinating—or as mysterious—as the story of the
Publick Universal Friend.
This year marks the
250th anniversary of the founding of the Society of Universal Friends, and the Yates County History Center is celebrating with a program that promises to be equal parts history, storytelling, and theatrical fun.
Imagine sitting in the room as two of the most influential figures from Penn Yan's earliest days meet once again.
On one side is the
Publick Universal Friend, portrayed by
Anita Gaston.
On the other is
Rebecca Wagener, portrayed by
Stephanie Olsen.
Their relationship? Let's just say it wasn't exactly peaceful.
According to the Yates County History Center, visitors can expect a lively discussion about their often
tumultuous relationship, with more than a few
salacious details sprinkled throughout the afternoon.
As
Tricia Noel, Director of the Yates County History Center, explains:
"Anita Gaston will portray the Publick Universal Friend, a life that began first, with a death. Stephanie Olsen will portray Rebecca Wagener, wife of David Wagener. With their sons, Abraham and Melchior, the Wagener family members are considered the founders of Penn Yan. The Wageners moved to Yates County as followers of the Publick Universal Friend, although the relationship between the Wageners and the Friend was problematic."
—
Tricia Noel, Director, Yates County History Center
If you've followed Keuka Roots™ for any length of time, you know how much I enjoy sharing the stories behind the places we pass every day without a second thought.
The Publick Universal Friend remains one of the most remarkable figures in American history. After surviving a serious illness in 1776, the Friend proclaimed that the person once known as Jemima Wilkinson had died and that God had sent a new spirit to continue the work on Earth. That message attracted followers from New England and Pennsylvania, who eventually made their way to our area, establishing what would become one of the earliest permanent non-Native settlements in what is now Yates County.
Among those followers were
David and Rebecca Wagener, along with their sons
Abraham and Melchior. Today, the Wagener family is recognized as the founding family of Penn Yan. But history tells us their relationship with the Friend wasn't always harmonious, making this living history presentation an especially intriguing glimpse into the personalities that helped shape our region.
One of my favorite things about living history programs is that they remind us these weren't simply names in a history book. They were real people—with hopes, disagreements, convictions, friendships, and conflicts that still echo across generations.
And honestly...who doesn't enjoy hearing a little historical gossip?
Whether you're already fascinated by the Publick Universal Friend, the Wagener family or this is your first introduction to one of the Finger Lakes' most captivating stories, this promises to be an afternoon you'll remember.
So gather a friend, spend an afternoon in historic Penn Yan, and let history introduce itself in a way you probably never expected.
Event Information:
Presented by The Yates County History Center
Celebrating the 250th Anniversary of the Society of Universal Friends
Featuring
Anita Gaston as the Publick Universal Friend
Stephanie Olsen as Rebecca Wagener
When:
Saturday, July 25, 2026
2:00 PM
Location
St. Mark's Episcopal Church
179 Main Street
Penn Yan, NY 14527
Admission
$10 – Yates County History Center Members
$15 – Non-Members
Tickets
Available at the door or in advance at the Underwood Museum during regular business hours.
Learn More
The
Yates County History Center is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich history of Yates County through exhibits, programs, research, and community events like this one. If you've never visited, it's one of those hidden gems that helps us better understand the people and places that make our region so special.
Yates County History Center
107 Chapel Street
Penn Yan, NY 14527
Open: Tuesday–Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Phone: (315) 536-7318
Whether you're a lifelong local, a newcomer to the Finger Lakes, or simply someone who loves a good story, this event is a wonderful reminder that history isn't just something we read.
Sometimes…
History walks back into the room.
Until next time…
Stay Rooted. Stay Keuka.™
