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

BERJAYA

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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BERJAYA

Picture Store

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

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View Full Calendar

On This Day In Buffalo

Saturday, August 8

Automobile Club of Buffalo (now AAA) incorporated, 1905

National Sneak Some Zucchini on Your Neighbor's Porch Day

Architect John E. Brent born, 1889

World Cat Day

Sunday, August 9

Erie County Advertiser, now known as the East Aurora Advertiser, publishes first issue, 1872

Indigenous Peoples Day

President James Monroe gives speech at Landon's Hotel, 1817

Later known as the Mansion House

Free Soil Party founded in Buffalo; nominates Martin Van Buren for president, 1848

Lafayette Square, Buffalo, NY

Monday, August 10

Buffalo Yacht Club founded, 1860

Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy incorporated, 1982

Tuesday, August 11

First cremation in Buffalo, 1885

Buffalo Crematory

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. delivers Alpha Phi Alpha keynote address, 1956

Buffalo chapter 50th anniversary dinner, Statler Hotel, Niagara Square

Governor Grover Cleveland visits Buffalo, 1883

Death of Caroline Carmichael Fillmore, second wife of Millard, 1881

Wednesday, August 12

Buffalo Niagara Brewers Association incorporated, 2013

League of American Wheelmen holds convention in Buffalo, 1901

Polio epidemic begins, 1912

German & Irish stevedores riot on Buffalo's waterfront, 1862