Above is the former P E Larson Dairy that was located in Jamestown. Below is an old P E Larson milk bottle, which is an old dairy located in the city of Jamestown. Submitted photos

A graphic design graduate looks at an old bottle and becomes interested in the design of the embossed monogram.

Someone else sees their family name on a bottle. Maybe they just like how it looks on the kitchen window sill.

Familiar things, interesting things, childhood memories are some of the many reasons people might collect things such as an old milk bottle or two.

For some, the history aspect is one of the most interesting draws to the hobby. With each passing day, fewer and fewer people are even aware of how milk once came to the table. Coming across a circa 1900s photograph of a horse-drawn milk wagon and crew can lead to an interesting history quest. From information in the photograph, it is obvious that P E Larson had a dairy at 28 Jones St. in Jamestown. An early city of Jamestown directory has him listed with a dairy on Chautauqua Avenue. Seems a bit confusing until a later directory mentions that Chautauqua Avenue was originally named Jones Street. Come to find out, the house is still there, the barn is gone, and a glass milk bottle and cardboard cap have been found.

There is an out of print booklet written by Alberta Oonk that gives the history of many of Chautauqua County dairies and the glass milk bottles they used. Oonk has graciously permitted the Chautauqua County Historical Society to reprint them in their original form (with additions), and the society is making them available for a $15 donation.

Bob Johnston is a trustee with the Chautauqua County Historical Society. People can call him at 338-5051 with any county dairy information or questions, and hopefully to buy a copy of the book. Copies will also be available at the McClurg Museum, home of the Chautauqua County Historical Society in Westfield, when the museum reopens to the public.