Pauline P. Holbrook

Pauline “Polly” Holbrook has devoted her time, energy and talent to bettering the community of Hornell, New York and the entire Canisteo Valley for more than six decades. 

Ms. Holbrook was born in Schenectady, the daughter of Irish immigrants. She and her older sister were featured Irish dancers who promoted war bonds for the United States government during World War II.

After graduating from Syracuse University, she married William J. Holbrook. The couple settled in Hornell and raised six children. To this day, the late Judge Holbrook is remembered as a longtime city attorney and City Court Judge, as well as a decorated U.S. Navy veteran and founder and past Commander of the local Naval Reserve, where Ms. Holbrook is a stalwart of civic affairs.

Ms. Holbrook’s life focus has always been on caring for her family, including a son with special needs. In addition to that commitment, for over 30 years, Ms. Holbrook also served as a substitute teacher in the Hornell City School District, making an unforgettable difference in the lives of countless students.

A short list of Ms. Holbrook’s many community associations, activities and achievements over the past six decades includes many with which she remains actively involved: the American Association of University Women/Alfred University Chapter (where she recently received the 65-Year Award), St. James Mercy Hospital, St. Gerard’s Guild, Steuben ARC Board of Directors, Hornell Arts Council, the Ladies of Columbus, Fortnightly Women’s Book Club, Meals on Wheels, and the Hornell American Legion Post 440.

A past recipient of the City of Hornell Republican of the Year Award, Ms. Holbrook is a revered member of the City of Hornell and Steuben County Republican Committees, where locally her tireless feats of petition carrying remain legendary to this day!

For over 60 years, Ms. Holbrook has attended daily Mass at Our Lady of the Valley Church in Hornell. She has also devoted many hours to the St. Ann’s Perpetual Adoration Chapel. Ms. Holbrook is a welcome and beloved visitor at local hospitals and nursing homes, where her steady companionship to patients and residents is counted on to raise their spirits and let them know they are not forgotten.