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.

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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.

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Picture Store

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

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On This Day In Buffalo

Friday, December 19

American Airlines plane burns after landing, 1934

Buffalo Turkish Community Foundation incorporated, 2005

St. Mary's Catholic Church destroyed by fire, 1986

Broadway & Pine Street, Buffalo, NY 14204, USA

British forces capture Fort Niagara, 1813

Fort Niagara State Park, 1 Scott Ave, Youngstown, NY 14174, USA

Saturday, December 20

First mass celebrated at St. Anthony of Padua church, 1891

St Anthony's of Padua RC Church, 160 Court St, Buffalo, NY 14202, USA

St. Mary's Roman Catholic Church destroyed by fire, 1986

Broadway & Pine St, Buffalo, NY 14204, USA

Jubilee Branch Library opens, 1915

Niagara Street, Niagara St, Buffalo, NY, USA

Cantilever Bridge opens, 1883

Niagara Falls, NY, USA

Sunday, December 21

WUTV-TV begins broadcasting, 1970

Commercial Advertiser newspaper building destroyed by fire, 1882

1st Passenger Flight in Buffalo, 1911

Citizens of Black Rock announce plans for a library, 1824

Monday, December 22

Tuesday, December 23

Niagara Cantilever Bridge opens, 1883

President Trump pardons felon & former Rep. Chris Collins, 2020

Blizzard of 2022 begins, 2022

Erie County Correctional Facility dedicated, 1985

Erie County Correctional Facility, 11581 Walden Ave, Alden, NY 14004, USA