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, August 21

Government agents toss 1,098 cases of ale into the Niagara River, 1924

Whirlpool Rapids Bridge, 2250 Whirlpool St, Niagara Falls, NY 14305, USA

Cornerstone laid at St. Agnes Catholic Church, 1904

Ludington & Benzinger St., Buffalo

Ida B. Wells gives speech, 1895

Vine St. AME Church

Louisiana-Hamilton day at the Pan-American Exposition, 1901

Saturday, August 22

Father Nelson Baker discovers natural gas on the OLV property, 1891

Our Lady of Victory Basilica, 767 Ridge Rd, Buffalo, NY 14218, USA

President Barack Obama gives speech at UB, 2013

University at Buffalo Alumni Arena

Exposition building & stables destroyed by fire, 1896

Hamlin Park Historic District, Buffalo, NY, USA

Sunday, August 23

Political humorist Mark Russell born, 1932

Buffalo Civic Orchestra incorporated, 1944

First work begins on Erie Canal in Erie County, 1823

Buffalo, NY, USA

Erie grain elevator destroyed by fire, 1882

Monday, August 24

Brith Shalom synagogue dedicated, 1873

Elm near Broadway

Coxey's Army arrested as it passed through Buffalo on the way to Washington, 1894

Cheektowaga, NY, USA

Architect Robert Traynham Coles born, 1929

Bufalo, NY

Carrie Nation visits the Pan-American Exposition, 1901

Tuesday, August 25

St. Louis Church dedicated, 1889

Main St.

Erie Railway Elevator destroyed by fire, 1882

St. Ann's cornerstone laid, 1878

651 Broadway St. at Emslie

Buffalo Tennis & Squash Club incorporated, 1915