The Hollow

Clarence Hollow, New York

Clarence Hollow is one of Western New York’s oldest and most distinctive communities — a historic stretch of Main Street shaped by early settlement, local businesses, civic organizations, preserved architecture, and generations of people who have called the area home.

Today, the Hollow still has a strong sense of place. Historic buildings sit alongside restaurants, shops, parks, churches, community organizations, and gathering spaces, creating a walkable district where the past remains visible while the community continues to evolve.

A Community With Deep Roots

Settlement in what became Clarence Hollow began in 1799, before the Town of Clarence itself was formally established. Clarence was created in 1808 and is the oldest town in Erie County.

One of the most important early figures was Asa Ransom, who established a tavern and Holland Land Company office and later built a sawmill and gristmill along the creek that now bears his name. These early businesses helped establish the Hollow as a center of settlement and commerce in the region.

Agriculture played a major role in Clarence’s development, while industries including brickmaking, quarrying, gypsum mining, and manufacturing also helped shape the town over time.

The Character of the Hollow

Clarence Hollow developed as one of the town’s traditional village-like hamlets. Its mix of historic architecture, Main Street businesses, sidewalks, parks, and community gathering places gives it a character that feels different from the surrounding suburban development.

That character remains one of the Hollow’s greatest strengths. Historic buildings continue to define the streetscape while newer businesses and gathering places give people reasons to return.

Community, Traditions & Local Life

The Hollow has always been more than a collection of buildings. Its identity comes from the people, businesses, organizations, and traditions that keep the district active.

Throughout the year, community events, markets, races, festivals, seasonal celebrations, and local gatherings bring residents and visitors together. Restaurants, shops, churches, professional businesses, and community organizations all contribute to the neighborhood’s character.

Getting Around the Hollow

Clarence Hollow is easy to explore without constantly getting back in the car. The Town parking area near the center of the district provides convenient access to Main Street, the Farmers’ Market, nearby businesses, parks, and the Clarence Pathways trail network.

From there, visitors can walk Main Street, browse local businesses, connect to the bike path, visit Town Park, or stop somewhere for a drink or meal.

The result is a district that works especially well as a place to spend a few hours rather than simply make one stop.

Organizations That Help Shape the Hollow

Clarence Hollow is supported by a number of local organizations that help preserve its history, strengthen its businesses, and bring people together.

The Clarence Hollow Association works to support the district through beautification, community events, business promotion, and preservation efforts.

The Historical Society of the Town of Clarence preserves local artifacts, documents, photographs, and historic buildings while helping residents and visitors better understand the area’s past.

The Town’s Historic Preservation Commission helps identify and protect historically and architecturally significant properties.

The Clarence Chamber of Commerce supports businesses throughout the town and helps promote Clarence as a place to live, work, visit, and explore.

Clarence Rotary also contributes to the civic life of the community through charitable and service-oriented projects.

The Hollow Today

Clarence Hollow has changed significantly since its earliest days, but many of the qualities that shaped it remain familiar: local enterprise, historic character, community involvement, and places where people naturally gather.

It is still a place to walk, meet neighbors, support local businesses, attend events, explore history, and spend time together.

What’s Happening

There is usually something going on in or around the Hollow, from live music and brewery events to farmers’ markets, community gatherings, races, festivals, and seasonal celebrations.

View All Happenings →