Experiencing History With You

Waterway of Change

Visit Us at Canalside

This exhibit invites visitors to explore the transformative story of the Erie Canal. It begins with the traditional homeland of the Haudenosaunee and the canal’s opening in 1825, tracing how it helped turn Buffalo into a bustling port and shipping hub by the late 19th century.

It also highlights the diverse perspectives of Indigenous Peoples, Black individuals, women, and immigrant communities affected by the canal’s development, offering a richer understanding of its cultural and historical significance.

Learn More

Shop Uniquely Buffalo Gifts

Museum Shop

Find a variety of gifts in-person at our Museum Shop as well as a selection of gifts in our online store.

Shop Now

Picture Store

Browse our extensive photo collection and decorate your home or office with classic Buffalo images.

Shop Now
View Full Calendar

On This Day In Buffalo

Saturday, December 27

"Howdy Doody," hosted by Buffalo Bob Smith, debuts on NBC-TV, 1947

Pioneering African-American journalist Andrew Smitherman born, 1883

Propane explosion kills 5 firefighters & 2 civilians, 1983

Grosvenor & North Division

Earthquake recorded, 1867

Buffalo, NY, USA

Sunday, December 28

Lusk Committee raids Communist Party office, 1919

760 Main St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

Monday, December 29

New Town Casino opens, 1945

681 Main Street

Steamer Caroline destroyed by Canadian soldiers, 1837

Fort Schlosser, Niagara Falls, NY 14304, USA

Tuesday, December 30

Burning of Buffalo, 1813

Milton Rogovin born, 1909

Brooklyn, NY, USA

Buffalo City Planning Association incorporated, 1921

Buffalo City Guard founded, 1837

Wednesday, December 31

Buffalo Launch Club incorporated, 1903

Seneca Niagara Casino opens, 2002

Niagara Falls, NY, USA

Willamsville Village Hall dedicated, 1909

Reuters reports new pneumonia in Wuhan, China, 2019