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

Tuesday, April 21

Broadway National Bank opens, 1919

1067 Broadway, Buffalo, NY 14212, USA

Buffalo's Marse Joe McCarthy born, 1887

Buffalo called "Cradle of Aircraft" gets huge air show (1929), 1928

Wednesday, April 22

Babe Ruth defeats Buffalo 6-0, 1914

Ralph Nader speaks on first Earth Day, 1970

Clark Gym, University at Buffalo

Thursday, April 23

Catholic Diocese of Buffalo established, 1847

Ballplayer Warren Spahn born, 1921

John Truces of Seneca Street becomes the first Arab to be naturalized in the US, 1896

C.R. Rao of Amherst wins Nobel Prize in Statistics, 2023

Friday, April 24

Cooperative Grange Elevator burns, 1921

Niagara Street

Village of Black Rock incorporated, 1837

Bob Barker hosts the "Bob Barker Fun and Games Show" in Buffalo, 1982

Memorial Auditorium

Buffalo Orphan Asylum incorporated, 1837

Saturday, April 25

South Buffalo Railway incorporated, 1899

Buffalo Savings Bank chartered, 1836

St. Lawrence Seaway opens, 1959

"Catholic Union" prints 1st issue, 1872