"Standing Stone": the History of the Name

The Oneida Indians were known as "The People of the Standing Stone",
and believed that when they found it, they would also find bountiful land,
clear water and sumptuous food.

The Dutch sought to trade furs with the Indians, and they were told
that "The People of the Standing Stone" could show them the best
locations and trapping techniques. The Dutch were lost, however, and found themselves on Seneca Lake. Here, the Indians that they found taught them all they needed. Believing that they had found "The People of the Standing Stone", the Dutch called the Indians "Sinerka"; their word for standing stone. The name stuck, in a slightly modified version.

There is also an Indian word "assiniki" which means "Stone People" or "Stone Standing", which also has been tied to Seneca Lake. Frequently folklore legends arrive at the same place through different avenues. At any rate, Standing Stone Vineyards is a name that we hope will survive many different generations to connect the history of the place with our bountiful vineyard future.