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Depew, New York | Government officials | Government officials
Kevin Peterson is the current mayor. Andrew Adolf is the current Deputy Mayor. Patrick Deleney is the current chairman of the Zoning Board of Appeals. Arthur Domino is the current village historian. Trustees include Janelle Kraft. |
Depew, New York | Historic places | Historic places
The United States Post Office contains a mural, Beginning of the Day, painted in 1941 by Anne Poor and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1988. Federally commissioned murals were produced from 1934 to 1943 in the United States through the Section of Painting and Sculpture, later called the Section of Fine Arts, of the Treasury Department. |
Depew, New York | Demographics | Demographics
As of the census of 2010, there were 15,303 people, 6,832 households, and 4,625 families residing in the village. The population density was . There were 7,101 housing units at an average density of . The racial makeup of the village was 93.70% White, 2.30% African American, 0.70% Native American, 0.50% Asian, 0.00% Pacific Islander, 0.18% from other races, and 1.90% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.73% of the population.
There were 6,669 households, out of which 27.4% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 51.7% were married couples living together, 12.1% had a female householder with no husband present, and 32.3% were non-families. 27.3% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.4% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.43 and the average family size was 2.96.
In the village, the population was spread out, with 22.0% under the age of 18, 7.2% from 18 to 24, 29.4% from 25 to 44, 24.1% from 45 to 64, and 17.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 92.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.1 males.
The median income for a household in the village was $57,895, and the median income for a family was $50,021. Males had a median income of $35,219 versus $25,604 for females. The per capita income for the village was $19,914. About 3.6% of families and 5.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 7.3% of those under age 18 and 3.0% of those age 65 or over.
According to the New York State Department of Health, residents of the Village of Depew report instances of psychosis and schizotypal personality disorder 28% higher than the statewide average and incidence of Alzheimer's disease 42% higher than the statewide average, adjusted for population. |
Depew, New York | Adjacent cities and towns | Adjacent cities and towns
Town of Cheektowaga - west, southwest, northwest
Town of Lancaster - east, southeast, northeast
Village of Lancaster - east |
Depew, New York | Transportation | Transportation
Depew hosts the Buffalo-Depew Amtrak station just inside its western border with Cheektowaga. The main train station for the Buffalo area, it is served by the Lake Shore Limited (Chicago to New York City/Boston), Maple Leaf (Toronto to New York City), and Empire Service (Niagara Falls, NY to New York City).
20px U.S. Route 20 (Transit Road, Broadway), U.S. Route 20 runs east-west; however, when entering te Village of Depew concurrent with NY 78 on Transit, it runs north-south. US 20 ends concurrency with NY 78 at Broadway and turns east to travel into the Village of Lancaster.
20px New York State Route 78 (Transit Road), north-south route through Depew, runs concurrently with US 20 south of village.
22px New York State Route 130 (Broadway), east-west roadway through the village from the Cheektowaga town line at the west to NY 130's end at Transit Rd. (US 20/NY 78). Broadway continues east into Village of Lancaster as US 20.
New York State Route 952Q (Walden Avenue), East-West highway through the village from Cheektowaga to Lancaster. Walden is the longest non-parkway reference route in New York. Walden's reference route number is not signed, but still has reference markers, and is maintained by New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) as other signed routes are. |
Depew, New York | Education | Education
Depew is divided between several school districts. Much of Depew is in Depew Union Free School District, while other parts are in Lancaster Central School District, Cheektowaga-Maryvale Union Free School District, and Cheektowaga Central School District. - Text list |
Depew, New York | See also | See also
Buffalo–Depew station
Chauncey Depew |
Depew, New York | References | References |
Depew, New York | External links | External links
Village of Depew official website
Category:Villages in New York (state)
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Villages in Erie County, New York |
Depew, New York | Table of Content | Use mdy dates, Geography, History, Notable people, Government officials, Historic places, Demographics, Adjacent cities and towns, Transportation, Education, See also, References, External links |
East Aurora, New York | for | East Aurora is a village in Erie County, New York, United States, southeast of Buffalo. It lies in the eastern half of the town of Aurora. The village population was 5,998 per the 2020 census. It is part of the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area. In 2015, East Aurora was rated the third-best town to raise a family in New York State by Niche. According to the National Council of Home Safety and Security, it is also among the safest places to live in New York State (ranked 1st, 2018). |
East Aurora, New York | History | History
The village was founded in 1804, and incorporated in 1874.
Prior to becoming President of the United States, Millard Fillmore lived in East Aurora with his wife Abigail from 1826 to 1830. The house he built there while practicing law in the beginning of his political career is currently maintained by the Aurora Historical Society. The 1825 structure is restored to that period and features some original Fillmore furniture of the era, as well as items from Fillmore's presidential years. The home is currently located at 24 Shearer Avenue in the village of East Aurora. thumb|Millard Fillmore Presidential Site
The founder of the Roycroft Movement, Elbert Hubbard, also lived there during the turn of the twentieth century. Hubbard and his wife died on board the in 1915. One of the town's most famous landmarks, the Roycroft Inn, was converted from the Hubbards' original print shop and opened as an inn in 1905 to accommodate the influx of famous visitors attracted by Hubbard's ideas as well as the books, Mission-style furniture and metalware produced by the 500 Roycroft artisans on the South Grove Street Roycroft campus. The Roycroft Campus was granted National Landmark Status in 1986. The Roycroft Inn was re-opened in June 1995 through the support of the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation. The inn was completely restored and is open to the public for dining and accommodations. The Elbert Hubbard Museum on Oakwood Avenue features an extensive collection of Roycroft books and Arts & Crafts pieces.
East Aurora is also the birthplace of and home to the corporate headquarters for Fisher-Price. From 1987 through 2007 the village and the Toy Town Museum (an independent non-profit organization located on the Fisher-Price campus) held the Toyfest Festival, which included the Toyfest parade featuring giant replicas of classic Fisher-Price toys. The three-day event was usually held at Hamlin Park and included an amusement park, circus-like attractions and a Fisher-Price play area where young children could play with a variety of toys.
thumb|Night view of Knox Farm from Willardshire Road
The town was the home of the inaugural owner of the NHL franchise Buffalo Sabres, Seymour H. Knox III. The Knox Estates, now known as Knox Farm, is a New York state park. It is located on the northwest edge of the village.
The Millard Fillmore House, George and Gladys Scheidemantel House, and Roycroft Campus are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Adams family were the first settlers to stay a winter in East Aurora in 1804 and the family farm still stands today on Olean Road. |
East Aurora, New York | Contemporary issues | Contemporary issues
East Aurora was one of the first communities to successfully block a Walmart store, in 1995 and again in 1999. The act was led by a community group in an attempt to preserve the small town values, and help support privately owned businesses. Wegmans also attempted to come to East Aurora, but it was blocked by Tops, a grocery store in East Aurora. |
East Aurora, New York | Geography | Geography
East Aurora is located at (42.766809, -78.617121).
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of , all land.
thumb|View of Tannery Brook from Maple
Main Street in the village is U.S. Route 20A. |
East Aurora, New York | Points of interest | Points of interest
Main Street in East Aurora is lined with a variety of specialty shops, restaurants, churches, municipal buildings and carefully preserved homes. Businesses include The East Aurora Advertiser, the community newspaper since 1872, which has occupied its Main St. office for more than 100 years. On Riley Street sits the East Aurora Classic Rink, which was created by the Aurora Ice Association. The rink’s components such as the boards, glass and refrigeration system were purchased by the Aurora Ice Association and is the same equipment used in the 2008 NHL Winter Classic between the Buffalo Sabres and the Pittsburgh Penguins. |
East Aurora, New York | Demographics | Demographics
As of the census of 2020, there were 5,998 people, 2,596 households, and 1,728 families residing in the village. The population density was . There were 2,729 housing units at an average density of .
There were 2,596 households, out of which 34.2% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 54.9% were married couples living together, 8.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 33.4% were non-families. 30.0% of all households were made up of individuals, and 12.8% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.44 and the average family size was 3.05.
In the village, the population was spread out, with 25.6% under the age of 18, 5.3% from 18 to 24, 27.6% from 25 to 44, 22.6% from 45 to 64, and 18.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 40 years. For every 100 females, there were 87.5 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 82.5 males. Since 2012, there has been a boost in families with very young children. |
East Aurora, New York | Schools | Schools
Children living in the village of East Aurora attend Parkdale Elementary (grades K–4), East Aurora Middle School (grades 5–8), and East Aurora High School (grades 9–12). Children living in the Town of Aurora attend the same public schools, with the notable exception of children living on Highland Drive in the Town of Aurora who attend the Iroquois School District due to a decision made in the 1960s. Immaculate Conception Catholic School (grades K-8) is the parochial and the Mandala school, a school that incorporates democratic and hands-on learning, are the alternatives. Children from the ages of one through four can attend nursery school on the Fisher Price campus, at the Duck Duck Goose Childcare Center or at some of the churches in East Aurora. Another option is the East Aurora Montessori School for ages two through five. Children may also attend Sprouting Minds Montessori School which is a school for infants through sixth grade providing a full Montessori curriculum to children in preschool through sixth grade. Sprouting Minds Montessori is located in the Town of Aurora near the West Falls borderline. Although not in East Aurora, the Aurora Waldorf School is a nearby option in West Falls providing an alternative Waldorf education to children from infancy through eighth grade.
In 2008 and 2009 additions and renovations totaling $24 million were made to the district's schools to address space and maintenance issues. Prior to 2009 students attended Parkdale Elementary in grades K–2, and Main Street Elementary for grades 3–8. Elements of the Roycroft style influenced the design of Parkdale Elementary's new entrance.
thumb|East Aurora Middle School from Main Street
The district gained approval on January 25, 2011, to begin contracting a roof repair project at the high school that would take place over the summer of 2011. The project did not have any tax impact on the community as it used funds from the district's emergency building repair fund and New York State Building Aid. The work was scheduled to begin on June 27, 2011. |
East Aurora, New York | Notable people | Notable people
Randall James Bayer, botanist
Merritt C. Buxton, U.S. National Champion jockey
Christine Estabrook, actress
Margaret Evans Price, illustrator, co-founder of Fisher-Price
Abigail Fillmore, former First Lady of the United States
Millard Fillmore, 13th President of the United States of America
William Headline, former Washington bureau chief for CNN
Elbert Hubbard, writer, publisher, artist, philosopher, and founder of the Roycroft artist community; died aboard the sinking of the RMS Lusitania on May 7, 1915.
Jeremy Jacobs, owner of the Boston Bruins
Emily Janiga, Professional Hockey player for the NWHL Buffalo Beauts
Seymour H. Knox III, original owner of the Buffalo Sabres
Joseph McKeen Morrow, Wisconsin state assemblyman
Henry H. Persons, banker, businessman, New York State Senator.
Irving Price, co-founder of Fisher-Price and former mayor of East Aurora
Helen Schelle, co-founder of Fisher-Price
James Schuyler, New York School poet, moved to East Aurora with his family when he was 15 (the town is the setting for two of his poems, "The Morning of the Poem" and "A Few Days")
Julie Byrne, singer-songwriter
Albert Sharpe, All-American college football player
Luke Tasker, CFL wide receiver
Joe Slade White, political strategist |
East Aurora, New York | Art | Art
East Aurora has been home to a number of regional landscape painters, most notably Carl W. Illig (1910-1987), who grew up and lived in the village for nearly all of his life. He painted landscape scenes along Cazenovia Creek, and fields and hills around East Aurora, in all seasons. His paintings are found in many homes in the village and surrounding towns. |
East Aurora, New York | Economy | Economy
Astronics is based in East Aurora.
East Aurora is home to the corporate headquarters of Moog, Inc. Moog is a designer and manufacturer of motion and fluid controls and control systems for applications in aerospace, defense, industrial and medical devices. The company operates under three segments: aircraft controls, space and defense controls, and industrial systems. |
East Aurora, New York | Cultural references | Cultural references
In the Whit Stillman movie Metropolitan, Nick Smith (played by Chris Eigeman) says that he will soon be taking a train to East Aurora, where he will meet his "stepmother of untrammeled malevolence, quite possibly to be murdered."
A Prince for Christmas was filmed in the village of East Aurora and premiered on the ION network on November 29, 2015.
A Christmas in Vermont was filmed in the village of East Aurora and other locations entirely in western NY. It premiered on the ION network on November 27, 2016.
Cold Brook was directed by William Fichtner was filmed in the village of East Aurora and other locations in Western NY. The movie was released October 15, 2018. |
East Aurora, New York | References | References |
East Aurora, New York | External links | External links
Village of East Aurora official website
East Aurora Advertiser, local newspaper
Greater East Aurora Chamber of Commerce
East Aurora Union Free School District
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Villages in New York (state)
Category:Villages in Erie County, New York
Category:Populated places established in 1804
Category:1804 establishments in New York (state) |
East Aurora, New York | Table of Content | for, History, Contemporary issues, Geography, Points of interest, Demographics, Schools, Notable people, Art, Economy, Cultural references, References, External links |
Elma, New York | Use mdy dates | For other places with this name, see Elma.
thumb|Elma, New York (2007)
Elma is a town in Erie County, New York, United States. The population was 11,721 at the 2020 census. The town is named after the American elm tree.
Elma is in the county's central area, southeast of Buffalo. |
Elma, New York | History | History
The area was settled circa 1827. The early residents included members of the Ebenezer Society.
Elma was the last town formed in the county. When the time came to put up a post office for the local lumber mill, a resident suggested it be named after a famous large American elm, then growing at the corner of the modern Clinton and Bowen Road. The name was accepted, and after all procedures were carried out, the new Elma Post Office was established in 1852 and began receiving mail three times a week. The town was officially created in 1857 from parts of the towns of Aurora and Lancaster. |
Elma, New York | Notable people | Notable people
Fran Striker, the creator of the Lone Ranger and the Green Hornet, was killed in a car accident here on September 4, 1962, while moving with his family.
After moving back to western New York in 2007, long-time Buffalo Bills running back Thurman Thomas opened Thurman Thomas Sports Training in Elma.
Other notable people include:
James Bradley, musician, drummer
Jackson C. Frank, folk musician
Patrick Gallivan, New York state senator
Jake Kaminski, Olympic archer
Les Kuntar, retired NHL goaltender
Frank Lazarus, former president of the University of Dallas
Otto Orf, retired soccer goalkeeper
James A. Pawelczyk, astronaut |
Elma, New York | Geography | Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of , of which is land and , or 0.03%, is water.
New York State Route 78 makes the west town line. The East Aurora Expressway (New York State Route 400) crosses the town. |
Elma, New York | Adjacent cities and towns | Adjacent cities and towns
West Seneca - west
Orchard Park - west
Aurora - south
Wales - southeast
Marilla - east
Lancaster - north
Cheektowaga - northwest |
Elma, New York | Major highways | Major highways
20px U.S. Route 20 (Transit Road), east–west highway (north–south in town) that marks the western border of town with Orchard Park and West Seneca. (Runs concurrently with NY 78 north of Seneca Street.)
20px New York State Route 16 (Seneca Street), north–south roadway (northwest–southeast in town) that runs concurrent with NY 16 from West Seneca town line to Aurora town line.
20px New York State Route 78 (Transit Road, Seneca Street), north–south roadway that marks west town line with West Seneca (when also concurrent with US 20) and runs concurrent with NY 16 southeast into town of Aurora.
22px New York State Route 187 (Transit Road), north–south roadway that forms west boundary of town with Orchard Park. (Continuation of Transit after US 20 splits off to west.)
22px New York State Route 354 (Clinton Street), east–west route through town from West Seneca to Marilla.
22px New York State Route 400 (Aurora Expressway), north–south highway (runs generally east–west through town) from West Seneca town line at NY 16/NY 78 to Aurora town line just east of village of East Aurora. |
Elma, New York | Demographics | Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 11,304 people, 4,186 households, and 3,294 families residing in the town. The population density was . There were 4,296 housing units at an average density of . The racial makeup of the town was 99.09% White, 0.05% African American, 0.05% Native American, 0.27% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.07% from other races, and 0.46% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.60% of the population.
There were 4,186 households, out of which 32.6% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 70.0% were married couples living together, 6.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 21.3% were non-families. 17.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 9.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.69 and the average family size was 3.08.
In the town, the population was spread out, with 24.5% under the age of 18, 5.5% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 27.9% from 45 to 64, and 16.0% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 95.4 males.
The town's median household income was $56,334, and the median family income was $63,922. Males had a median income of $42,679 versus $28,826 for females. The town's per capita income was $25,960. About 2.3% of families and 3.4% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.4% of those under age 18 and 6.3% of those age 65 or over. |
Elma, New York | Communities and locations in Elma | Communities and locations in Elma
Source:
Blossom – A hamlet in the town's Northwest corner. It was the principal location of the Ebenezer Society.
Cotton District – A hamlet located Northeast of Elma Center near the Clinton Road and Girdle Road area; named for multiple families named Cotton in the area.
East Elma – A hamlet in the southeast part of Elma.
Elma Center – A hamlet near the town's center and south of Elma Village on Bowen Road.
Elma Village – A hamlet near the Northern town line on Bowen Road.
Jamison Road – A hamlet located Southeast of Elma Center on Jamison Road.
Spring Brook – A hamlet on Route 16 (Seneca Street) near the Western town line.
Buffalo Creek – A stream flowing westward through the town's northern part. The name of the city of Buffalo is derived from the stream. There were no buffalo living in the area during the colonial period, although they are now raised on several local farms. As it approaches the city of Buffalo, the creek is called the Buffalo River.
Cazenovia Creek – A stream flowing northward through the town's Southwest part.
Billington Heights – A small, 1955-era housing development in the Southeast part of Elma; it is not a hamlet. |
Elma, New York | Schools | Schools
Public schools in Elma are under the jurisdiction of the Iroquois Central School District. Iroquois Central Schools consistently enjoys top rank as the 5th or 6th best public school in Western New York. Made up of approximately 3,000 students district-wide, Iroquois divides its students in an unconventional manner, with three primary schools for students in kindergarten through 3rd grade, an intermediate school for students in 4th and 5th grade, a middle school for students from 6th to 8th grade, and a high school for students in 9th to 12th grade.
While the primary schools are in the respective towns indicated by their names (Elma Primary, Marilla Primary, and Wales Primary), the other three schools are on the same expansive campus at 2111 Girdle Road in Elma. The campus is divided such that the high school and middle school are separated by the intermediate school, acting as a buffer between the similar age groups. The three buildings are connected by walkways, but students rarely leave the building to which their grade belongs. In accord, the primary, intermediate, middle, and high school buildings each have their own gymnasium, cafeteria, library, and administrative offices.
One of the school district's greatest assets is the expansive undeveloped areas that surround each school that provide open space for younger students to play and older students to take part in extracurricular activities.
Some of the latest additions to the school, in fact, involve the development of a large field across the street from the high school. These fields across from the high school have been developed recently into a parking lot for students as well as soccer and lacrosse fields for the teams. In addition, the middle school library was recently remodeled, an extra wing of classrooms was added to the high school, and plans call for the renovation of the high school music department. |
Elma, New York | Industry | Industry
The headquarters for beverage manufacturer Elmhurst 1925 are in Elma. The Made In America Franchise is also headquartered in Elma. Moog, an aerospace engineering company also resides here. |
Elma, New York | Fire companies | Fire companies
The town of Elma has four volunteer fire companies: Blossom, Elma, Jamison Road, and Spring Brook. Blossom is one of the oldest fire companies in the county, establishing in 1872. |
Elma, New York | References | References |
Elma, New York | External links | External links
Town of Elma official webpage
Elma Historical Society and Museum Complex
Elma Public Library
Elma history
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Towns in Erie County, New York
Category:Towns in New York (state) |
Elma, New York | Table of Content | Use mdy dates, History, Notable people, Geography, Adjacent cities and towns, Major highways, Demographics, Communities and locations in Elma, Schools, Industry, Fire companies, References, External links |
Evans, New York | Use mdy dates | Evans is a town in Erie County, New York, United States. The population was 16,356 at the 2010 census. The town derives its name from David E. Evans, an agent of the Holland Land Company and nephew of land agent Joseph Ellicott.
The town is approximately southwest of Buffalo and is a rural community with of waterfront. The town is located close to the major trading centers of the Northeast and is a bi-national gateway for commerce due to the region's border location with Canada. |
Evans, New York | History | History
The town of Evans was established in 1821 from part of the town of Eden. The first settler arrived circa 1804, but there was no permanent settlement until 1808. David Evans was named the local agent of the Holland Land Company in 1827. He was known for his humane management of the company business in relation to the impoverished settlers. |
Evans, New York | Geography | Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of , of which is land and , or 0.08%, is water.
The New York State Thruway (Interstate 90), US 20 (Southwestern Boulevard), and NY 5 (Erie Road) pass through the town.
The north town line is defined by Eighteen Mile Creek, which is well known for excellent fossil formations. Lake Erie defines the west town line. |
Evans, New York | Neighboring towns | Neighboring towns
The town of Brant is to the south, Hamburg is to the northeast, and the town of Eden is to the east. |
Evans, New York | Communities and locations | Communities and locations
Angola – A village in the south part of the town.
Angola Lake Shore Addition – A community in the southwest part of the town.
Angola on the Lake – A lakeside community by Lake Erie.
Bennett Beach – A lakeside park west of Evans Center.
Camp Lakeland – A lakeside community by Lake Erie.
Camp Pioneer – A lakeside community by Lake Erie.
Derby – A hamlet in the northwestern part of the town.
Evans Beach Park – A hamlet on the lake shore west of Angola.
Evans Center – A hamlet on NY-5 north of Angola.
Evangola State Park – A small part of the state park is at the town's south line.
Grandview Bay – A lakeside hamlet west of Angola.
Highland-on-the-Lake – A lakeside hamlet on NY-5.
Jerusalem Corners – A hamlet in the western part of the town.
Lake Erie Beach – A lakeside hamlet southwest of Angola.
North Evans – A hamlet in the northeastern corner of the town.
Pontiac – A location near the eastern town line.
Wendt Beach Park – A lakeside park north of Camp Lakeland. |
Evans, New York | Demographics | Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 14,070 people, 6,639 households, and 4,773 families residing in the town. The population density was . There were 7,507 housing units at an average density of . The racial makeup of the town was 97.81% White, 0.38% African American, 0.62% Native American, 0.20% Asian, 0.02% Pacific Islander, 0.19% from other races, and 0.78% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.20% of the population.
There were 6,639 households, out of which 34.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 56.4% were married couples living together, 11.0% had a female householder with no husband present, and 28.1% were non-families. 23.5% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.1% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.63 and the average family size was 3.11.
In the town, the population was spread out, with 26.3% under the age of 18, 6.8% from 18 to 24, 29.4% from 25 to 44, 25.2% from 45 to 64, and 12.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 95.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.3 males.
The median income for a household in the town was $43,142, and the median income for a family was $50,765. Males had a median income of $39,022 versus $26,698 for females. The per capita income for the town was $19,122. About 5.4% of families and 7.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 8.8% of those under age 18 and 5.3% of those age 65 or over. |
Evans, New York | Parks and recreation | Parks and recreation
The Town's waterfront location has also made it a popular spot for tourism and recreation, especially during the summer months. Bennett Beach and Wendt Beach Park are popular recreation and tourism spots in the town. Sturgeon Point Marina is also a popular recreation spot in the town. A small part of Evangola State Park lies within the town at the south town line. |
Evans, New York | Government | Government
Evans is served by five volunteer fire departments, which are Highland Hose, North Evans, Evans Center, Angola and Lake Erie Beach.
Police services are provided by the Evans Police Department. The Marine Rescue and Recovery Unit of the Evans Police Department responds to calls for assistance in water and ice rescue situations, including drowning or possible drowning, boating accidents, and recovery of property and bodies. The Evans Police have two Humvees for inclement weather and search and rescue operations. The Department acquired these vehicles through the 1033 program. The Town of Evans Communications Center dispatches Emergency Services for Brant Police and Fire Departments, Towns of Collins, North Collins, Village of North Collins and Seneca Nation Territory. Over all 13 fire companies and two EMS companies. |
Evans, New York | Education | Education
The town has one high school, one middle school, three elementary schools and an educational center (formerly an elementary school).
|
Evans, New York | Notable people | Notable people
Willis Carrier, inventor of air conditioning
Alfred Gray, former Kansas legislator
Patrick Kaleta, ice hockey player for the Buffalo Sabres of the NHL
Christian Laettner, former NBA player
Nathaniel O. Murray, Wisconsin State Assemblyman and steamboat owner
Francis J. Pordum, former New York state assemblyman, served as Town Supervisor
A. W. Shepard, former college football head coach, lived in North Evans |
Evans, New York | References | References |
Evans, New York | External links | External links
Town of Evans official website
Town of Evans Police Department
Evans Historical Society and 1857 Museum
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Towns in Erie County, New York
Category:Towns in New York (state) |
Evans, New York | Table of Content | Use mdy dates, History, Geography, Neighboring towns, Communities and locations, Demographics, Parks and recreation, Government, Education, Notable people, References, External links |
Farnham, New York | Use mdy dates | Farnham is a village in the town of Brant, New York, United States. The population of Farnham was 381 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area. The village is named after Leroy Farnham, a local landowner and merchant.
Farnham is located in the western part of the town of Brant, north of the Cattaraugus Reservation and southeast of Evangola State Park. |
Farnham, New York | History | History
The Village of Farnham was incorporated in 1892, having been built up around the Lake Shore Railroad. |
Farnham, New York | Geography | Geography
Farnham is located at (42.591643, -79.085173).
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of , all land.
Farnham is at the junction of New York State Route 5 and New York State Route 249. |
Farnham, New York | Demographics | Demographics
At the 2000 census, there were 322 people, 113 households and 87 families living in the village. The population density was . There were 126 housing units at an average density of . The racial makeup of the village was 95.03% White, 0.93% African American, 1.24% Native American, 0.62% from other races, and 2.17% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.24% of the population.
There were 113 households, of which 38.1% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 55.8% were married couples living together, 15.9% had a female householder with no husband present, and 23.0% were non-families. 20.4% of all households were made up of individuals, and 10.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.84 and the average family size was 3.28.
Age distribution was 28.6% under the age of 18, 9.6% from 18 to 24, 26.1% from 25 to 44, 22.0% from 45 to 64, and 13.7% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 36 years. For every 100 females, there were 89.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 90.1 males.
The median household income was $35,000, and the median family income was $37,000. Males had a median income of $31,000 versus $25,208 for females. The per capita income for the village was $14,386. About 7.0% of families and 7.7% of the population were below the poverty line, including 10.2% of those under age 18 and none of those age 65 or over. |
Farnham, New York | Notable person | Notable person
Clint Holmes, singer-songwriter and Las Vegas entertainer; lived in Farnham as a child |
Farnham, New York | References | References |
Farnham, New York | External links | External links
Village of Farnham
Category:Villages in New York (state)
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Villages in Erie County, New York |
Farnham, New York | Table of Content | Use mdy dates, History, Geography, Demographics, Notable person, References, External links |
Grand Island, New York | Short description | Grand Island is an island town in Erie County, New York, United States. As of the 2020 census, the town's population was 21,389 representing an increase of 5.00% from the 2010 census figure. The town's name is derived from the French name La Grande Île; Grand Island is the largest island in the Niagara River and the third largest in New York state. The phrase La Grande Île appears on the town seal.
Grand Island has been home to the Attawandaron Nation and an acquisition of both French and English colonial pursuits. In 1945, Grand Island was part of a plan to make a new World Peace Capital on the international border between Southern Ontario, Canada, and Western New York. The plan proposed placing the United Nations headquarters on adjacent Navy Island (Ontario), which was considered an ideal location because it lay on the boundary between two peaceful countries. An artist's rendering of the World Peace Capital showed the property with bridges spanning both countries (between Grand Island in the United States and the Canadian mainland). The proposal was turned down in favor of the current U.N. headquarters in New York City.
The town of Grand Island is in the northwestern corner of Erie County, and on the Canada–US border, although there is no river crossing to Canada. It is northwest of Buffalo, south of Niagara Falls, and is traversed by Interstate 190 and New York State Route 324. |
Grand Island, New York | History | History |
Grand Island, New York | Period before the American Revolution | Period before the American Revolution
In the early historical period of the island, French explorers found members of the Neutral Nation of Native Americans, also known as the Attawandaron, living on the island. By 1651, the nearby Seneca Nation had chased off or killed the Neutrals, having also absorbed some of the survivors. The Seneca then used the island for hunting and fishing.
In 1764, as part of the Treaty of Cession after the French and Indian War, the island became part of the British colonies in North America. |
Grand Island, New York | Period after the American Revolution | Period after the American Revolution
In 1815, New York State purchased Grand Island and other small islands in the Niagara River from the Iroquois nation for $1,000 in hand, and annually a perpetuity of $500 every June. The treaty was signed by Governor Daniel D. Tompkins, Peter B. Porter, Chief Red Jacket, Falling Boards, Twenty Canoes, Sharp Shins, Man Killer, and others. The Senecas reserved the right to hunt fish and fowl on the islands.
In 1824, in a precursor to modern Zionism, journalist and Utopian Mordecai Manuel Noah tried to found a "Jewish homeland on Grand Island." It would be called Ararat, after Mount Ararat, the Biblical resting place of Noah's Ark. However, the idea failed to attract Noah's fellow Jews, and it never got further than a ceremonial laying of a cornerstone. MacArthur Award-winning cartoonist Ben Katchor fictionalized Noah's scheme for Grand Island in his graphic novel The Jew of New York.
The town of Grand Island was organized in 1852 from part of the town of Tonawanda.
On August 25, 1993, the Seneca Nation commenced an action in the United States District Court for the Western District of New York to reclaim land that allegedly was taken from them without the approval of the United States. The Senecas argued the 1815 transaction with New York State violated the Trade and Intercourse Act of 1790, which prohibited Native American lands from being sold without the federal government's consent. The Senecas sought the ejection of more than 2,000 property owners on the island. By decision and order dated June 21, 2002, the trial court held the subject lands were ceded to Great Britain in the 1764 treaties of peace and the subject lands were not owned by the Seneca at the time of the 1794 Treaty of Canandaigua. New York state's purchase of them in 1815 was intended to avoid conflict with the Senecas over land it already owned. This decision was appealed, and the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit affirmed the trial court's decision on September 9, 2004. The Senecas then sought review of this decision by the Supreme Court of the United States, which was denied on June 5, 2006. |
Grand Island, New York | Geography | Geography
right|thumb|252px|September 2001 satellite image of Grand Island, Niagara Falls is visible at the top left corner.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has an area of , of which is land and , or 15.08%, is water.
The Niagara river splits into two parts at the south end of the island and rejoins at the northwest end, about upstream (east) of Niagara Falls.
The town lies adjacent to the border between Canada and the United States. As there is no direct bridge or ferry connection from the island to Canada, there are no customs or immigration services. Paired bridges connect the south end of the island to the town of Tonawanda, and another pair of bridges connects the northern end to the city of Niagara Falls in Niagara County. The two sets of bridges carry Interstate 190, a branch of the New York State Thruway (Interstate 90). In addition, New York State Route 324 (Grand Island Boulevard) is conjoined with I-190 at the southern bridges and reaches its western terminus in the northern part of Grand Island. |
Grand Island, New York | Adjacent cities and towns | Adjacent cities and towns
Niagara Falls, Regional Municipality of Niagara, Ontario, Canada – west
Fort Erie, Regional Niagara – southwest
Town of Tonawanda, Erie County – southeast
City of Tonawanda, Erie County - east
City of North Tonawanda, Niagara County – east
Town of Wheatfield, Niagara County – northeast
City of Niagara Falls, Niagara County – northwest |
Grand Island, New York | Major highways | Major highways
22px Interstate 190 (Niagara Thruway), crosses the island from north to southeast by the way of the North and South Grand Island Bridges.
22px New York State Route 324 (Grand Island Blvd.), east-west highway from its northwest terminus at I-190 southeast through the central part of town, joining I-190 as the route travels east (south) to the town of Tonawanda by the South Grand Island Bridge. (This was the route across town between the single-span bridges that opened in 1935 until I-190 and the second spans were constructed in the 1960s.)
Beaver Island Parkway (also referred to on maps as South Parkway), north-south parkway from I-190 to Beaver Island State Park. (NYS Reference Route 957B)
West River Parkway (now closed), former north-south parkway along the western edge of town that parallels the Niagara River. It runs from Beaver Island Parkway in the south, north to Park Road in Buckhorn Island State Park near I-190 and NY 324's northern terminus. The speed limit was 55 mph. (NYS Reference Route 957C). The West River Parkway was closed in the fall of 2017 and converted into a bike path and pedestrian trail in 2018. |
Grand Island, New York | Demographics | Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 18,621 people, 6,898 households, and 5,221 families residing in the town. The population density was . There were 7,355 housing units at an average density of . The town's racial makeup was 95.80% White, 3.17% African American, 0.25% Native American, 1.17% Asian, 0.01% Pacific Islander, 0.25% from other races, and 0.88% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.09% of the population.
There were 6,898 households, of which 35.8% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 64.8% were married couples living together, 7.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 24.3% were non-families. 20.2% of all households were made up of individuals, and 7.9% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.68 and the average family size was 3.13.
In the town, the population was spread out, with 26.7% under the age of 18, 6.5% from 18 to 24, 27.7% from 25 to 44, 27.7% from 45 to 64, and 11.3% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 39 years. For every 100 females, there were 97.4 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 94.4 males.
The town's median household income was $60,432, and the median family income was $70,521. Males had a median income of $48,457 versus $30,157 for females. The town's per capita income was $25,816. About 2.4% of families and 3.0% of the population were below the poverty line, including 3.3% of those under age 18 and 5.1% of those age 65 or over. |
Grand Island, New York | Communities and locations on Grand Island | Communities and locations on Grand Island
Fairview Court – A hamlet on the southwest shore of the island.
Falconwood – A hamlet on the southeast shore of the town, named after the Falconwood Club.
Ferry Village – A hamlet on the border of Beaver Island State Park.
Grandyle Village – Neighborhood (and census-designated place) located near Beaver Island Parkway and the South Grand Island Bridge.
Hennepin Road – Road within Grandyle Village named after French explorer Louis Hennepin, who observed and described Niagara Falls in 1677.
North Grand Island Bridge – Bridge north to the city of Niagara Falls.
Oakfield – A location north of Beaver Island State Park.
Sandy Beach – A hamlet in the northeast shore of the island.
Sheenwater – A location on the west shore of the island.
Edgewater – A location on the northeast shore of the island.
Sour Springs Grove – A location by the shore in the southeast part of the town.
South Grand Island Bridge – Bridge southeast to Tonawanda, a suburb of Buffalo. |
Grand Island, New York | Points of interest | Points of interest
Beaver Island State Park – a state park located at the south end of the island. The park is fully developed for many recreational activities, including a golf course.
Buckhorn Island State Park – a state park at the north end of Grand Island, noted for its attempts to preserve the local environment.
Grand Island Nike Base – a town park and senior citizen center, originally a US Army missile site which was part of Project Nike from the mid-1950s through the mid-1960s.
Grand Island Rod and Gun Club – an outdoor rifle range, trap and skeet range, and archery range. There is also a small pond on the land for fishing.
Niagara Amusement Park & Splash World – 85-acre amusement park that opened in 1961.
River Lea Farmhouse – an 1873 Victorian farmhouse once owned by Grover Cleveland's uncle, who hired Cleveland to work on the farm, the future president's first job.
Spaulding-Sidway Boathouse – listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998.
Veterans Park – a park in the north part of the town, home to many local children's sporting events.
Woods Creek – a small stream that enters the Niagara River at Buckhorn Island Park. |
Grand Island, New York | Notable people | Notable people
thumb|upright|Grover Cleveland, the 22nd and 24th President of the United States, owned a home in Beaver Island.
Jimmy Arias, retired tennis player
Carly Beth, singer-songwriter.
Bill Boyle, soccer player and coach
Dale Brown, best-selling military techno-thriller novelist, graduated from Grand Island High School 1974
Stacy Clark, singer/songwriter; graduated from Grand Island High School 1998
Grover Cleveland, 22nd and 24th U.S. president, owned a home in Beaver Island
Charles N. DeGlopper, World War II Medal of Honor recipient, born and raised on Grand Island
Carlin Hartman, men's assistant coach with the Oklahoma Sooners men's basketball program
Thom Hatch, award-winning author and historian
Brett Kern, NFL player for the Tennessee Titans
Mohamed Abdullahi Mohamed, former President of Somalia
Mordecai Manuel Noah, American playwright, diplomat, journalist, and utopian who tried to found a Jewish homeland on Grand Island
Larry Playfair, retired NHL player
Paul Schenck, Catholic priest
Rob Schenck, evangelical minister
Bill Scherrer, retired Major League Baseball player
Ramblin' Lou Schriver, country musician and radio broadcaster, retired owner of WXRL
Leonard F. Walentynowicz, former United States Assistant Secretary of State for Security and Consular Affairs |
Grand Island, New York | Schools on Grand Island | Schools on Grand Island |
Grand Island, New York | Public schools | Public schools
Public schools are under the jurisdiction of the Grand Island Central School District.
Grand Island High School
Veronica E. Connor Middle School
William M. Kaegebein Elementary School
Huth Road Elementary School
Charlotte Sidway Elementary School |
Grand Island, New York | Parochial schools | Parochial schools
St. Stephen School |
Grand Island, New York | References | References |
Grand Island, New York | Further reading | Further reading
Selig Adler & Thomas E. Connolly. From Ararat to Suburbia: the History of the Jewish Community of Buffalo (Philadelphia: the Jewish Publication Society of America, 1960, Library of Congress Number 60-15834).
Rob Roy Macleod. Cinderella Island (Grand Island, NY: Grand Island Chamber of Commerce, 1969)
Gerald Carpenter, June Justice Crawford. Grand Island (Images of America) (Arcadia Publishing, 2015, ) |
Grand Island, New York | External links | External links
Town of Grand Island official website
Grand Island history
Historic Preservation on Grand Island
Category:Islands of Erie County, New York
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Towns in Erie County, New York
Category:Towns in New York (state)
Category:Islands of the Niagara River
Category:River islands of New York (state)
Category:Islands of New York (state)
Category:1852 establishments in New York (state) |
Grand Island, New York | Table of Content | Short description, History, Period before the American Revolution, Period after the American Revolution, Geography, Adjacent cities and towns, Major highways, Demographics, Communities and locations on Grand Island, Points of interest, Notable people, Schools on Grand Island, Public schools, Parochial schools, References, Further reading, External links |
Harris Hill, New York | short description | Harris Hill is a hamlet and census-designated place (CDP) located in the town of Clarence in Erie County, New York, United States. The population was 5,508 at the 2010 census. It is part of the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area. The region is named after Asa Harris, a former officer in the American Colonial Army, who established a tavern near the top of a low hill northeast of Buffalo. |
Harris Hill, New York | Geography | Geography
Harris Hill is located at (42.967058, -78.677828). Harris Hill's ZIP code 14221 is shared with nearby Williamsville.
According to the United States Census Bureau, the CDP has a total area of , all land.
Harris Hill is located in the southwest corner of the town, just north of the northern Lancaster town line, and is centered on the intersection of Main Street (NY Route 5) and Harris Hill Road.
Just to the southeast of Harris Hill, is a large crushed stone quarry located in the town of Lancaster. The quarry plunges some 30 meters into the bedrock. The quarry, now owned by Buffalo Crushed Stone, was opened in 1904. Buffalo Crushed Stone is located on the south side of Wehrle Drive, just east of Harris Hill Road in Lancaster. |
Harris Hill, New York | History | History
Asa Harris's Tavern was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Freed slaves would sneak under Main Street (present-day NY Route 5) through limestone caves and exit north at the bottom of the Onondaga Formation into a swampy forest. The tavern has since been re-purposed as the Home Town Cleaners. It has since been renamed Reed's Laundry and Dry cleaning. |
Harris Hill, New York | Demographics | Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 4,881 people, 1,859 households, and 1,435 families residing in the community. The population density was . There were 1,992 housing units at an average density of . The racial makeup of the CDP was 97.38% White, 0.51% African American, 0.14% Native American, 1.25% Asian, 0.06% Pacific Islander, 0.39% from other races, and 0.27% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 0.82% of the population.
There were 1,859 households, out of which 32.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 67.6% were married couples living together, 6.7% had a female householder with no husband present, and 22.8% were non-families. 19.9% of all households were made up of individuals, and 11.0% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.62 and the average family size was 3.04.
In the community, the population was spread out, with 25.4% under the age of 18, 5.0% from 18 to 24, 24.7% from 25 to 44, 26.1% from 45 to 64, and 18.8% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 42 years. For every 100 females, there were 93.8 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 92.3 males.
The median income for a household in the area was $62,500, and the median income for a family was $66,971. Males had a median income of $52,478 versus $31,910 for females. The per capita income for the CDP was $29,056. About 1.4% of families and 1.5% of the population were below the poverty line, including 0.7% of those under age 18 and 0.8% of those age 65 or over. |
Harris Hill, New York | Education | Education
Most of the CDP is served by the Clarence Central School District, while a portion is in Williamsville Central School District. - Text list |
Harris Hill, New York | References | References
Category:Hamlets in New York (state)
Category:Census-designated places in New York (state)
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Census-designated places in Erie County, New York
Category:Hamlets in Erie County, New York |
Harris Hill, New York | Table of Content | short description, Geography, History, Demographics, Education, References |
Kenmore, New York | Use mdy dates | Kenmore is a village in Erie County, New York, United States. The population was 15,205 at the 2020 census. It is part of the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area.
Kenmore is in the south part of the town of Tonawanda, and together with the town it is often referred to as "Ken-Ton". It is bordered to the south by the city of Buffalo. The village is in the northwest part of Erie County.
The village has received accolades: In 2009, the American Planning Association named Kenmore "One of the Top 10 Great Neighborhoods" in the United States. The village is also one of the country's 100 most densely-populated incorporated places. |
Kenmore, New York | History | History
The village of Kenmore was incorporated in 1899 from part of the town of Tonawanda. It is known as "Buffalo's First Suburb".
Louis Eberhardt, known as the "father of Kenmore", opposed naming the village "Eberhardt" after himself. He was responsible for buying farmland and subdividing the property into a suburban development. The building which is portrayed on the village logo is the Eberhardt Mansion, located at the corner of Delaware Avenue and Kenmore Avenue. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. The Kenmore Village Hall was listed in 2013 as the Tonawanda Municipal Building. |
Kenmore, New York | Geography | Geography
Kenmore is located at (42.964907, -78.871679).
According to the United States Census Bureau, the village has a total area of , all land. |
Kenmore, New York | Adjacent cities and towns | Adjacent cities and towns
Town of Tonawanda - west, north, east
Buffalo - south |
Kenmore, New York | Major highways | Major highways
22px New York State Route 265 (Military Rd.), north–south roadway that provides the west village line.
22px New York State Route 384 (Delaware Ave.), north–south roadway through the village from Tonawanda south into Buffalo.
Elmwood Avenue (Erie CR 119), important north–south roadway through the village
Kenmore Avenue (Erie CR 307), east–west roadway that forms the south village line. |
Kenmore, New York | Demographics | Demographics
As of the census of 2000, there were 16,426 people, 7,071 households, and 4,235 families residing in the village. The population density was , one of the densest populations in the United States. There were 7,459 housing units at an average density of . The racial makeup of the village was 96.85% White, 0.99% African American, 0.35% Native American, 0.58% Asian, 0.04% Pacific Islander, 0.35% from other races, and 0.83% from two or more races. Hispanic or Latino of any race were 1.30% of the population.
There were 7,071 households, out of which 28.7% had children under the age of 18 living with them, 45.3% were married couples living together, 11.6% had a female householder with no husband present, and 40.1% were non-families. 34.8% of all households were made up of individuals, and 15.6% had someone living alone who was 65 years of age or older. The average household size was 2.31 and the average family size was 3.04.
In the village, the population was spread out, with 23.3% under the age of 18, 7.4% from 18 to 24, 30.5% from 25 to 44, 22.5% from 45 to 64, and 16.4% who were 65 years of age or older. The median age was 38 years. For every 100 females, there were 86.3 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there were 81.9 males.
The median income for a household in the village was $42,252, and the median income for a family was $53,155. Males had a median income of $38,371 versus $26,875 for females. The per capita income for the village was $21,695. About 3.5% of families and 5.2% of the population were below the poverty line, including 5.8% of those under age 18 and 4.6% of those age 65 or over. |
Kenmore, New York | Government | Government
The village government consists of a mayor and four trustees, each elected to a four-year term. The current mayor is Patrick Mang. |
Kenmore, New York | Education | Education
Kenmore located in Kenmore-Tonawanda Union Free School District. - Text list |
Kenmore, New York | Notable people | Notable people
Adrian Adonis, pro wrestler
Zach Anner, stand-up comedian
Wolf Blitzer, journalist and news anchor
Bob Cameron, racing driver
Jonah Heim, American professional baseball catcher for the Texas Rangers
Green Jellÿ, punk band
Rusty Jeffers, professional bodybuilder
Gerda Weissmann Klein, Holocaust historian and recipient of the Medal of Freedom
Beth Krom, former mayor of Irvine, California
Jill Krowinski, current Speaker of the House, Vermont House of Representatives
Chris Lee, former US congressman
John Massé, animator
Chuck McCoy, radio personality, comedian, YouTube creator
Dan McFall, retired NHL player
Bernard Joseph McLaughlin, Roman Catholic bishop
James McLernon, retired automobile company executive
Jerry Ross, painter
Vesta M. Roy, former acting governor of New Hampshire
Robin Schimminger, former New York state assemblyman |
Kenmore, New York | References | References |
Kenmore, New York | External links | External links
Category:Villages in New York (state)
Category:Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area
Category:Villages in Erie County, New York |
Kenmore, New York | Table of Content | Use mdy dates, History, Geography, Adjacent cities and towns, Major highways, Demographics, Government, Education, Notable people, References, External links |
Lackawanna, New York | For | Lackawanna is a city in Erie County, New York, United States, just south of the city of Buffalo in western New York State. The population was 19,949 at the 2020 census. It is one of the fastest-growing cities in New York, growing in population by 10% from 2010 to 2020. It is part of the Buffalo-Niagara Falls metropolitan area. The city of Lackawanna is in the western part of Erie County.
The town's name derives from the Lackawanna Steel Company, which owned the steel plant around which the city developed. During the early 20th century, the Lackawanna steel plant was the largest in the world. The word "Lackawanna" refers to the steel company's original location in the river valley of the same name, in eastern Pennsylvania. That place name, in turn, might come from Lenape lèkaohane, meaning "sandy stream", or lechauhanne, [lɛxaohánɛk], meaning "forks of the river". |
Lackawanna, New York | History | History
Originally part of the Buffalo Creek Reservation, the area was not open to settlement until 1842 when the Seneca Indians sold it. In 1851 the town of Seneca was formed; the name was changed to West Seneca in 1852. The area now known as Lackawanna was then called West Seneca or Limestone Hill.
Lackawanna was a center of steel manufacture throughout most of the 20th century. In 1899, the Lackawanna Steel Company, based in Scranton, Pennsylvania since its founding, purchased all the land along the West Seneca shore of Lake Erie. Construction was started in 1900 and the Lackawanna Steel Company relocated to the area in 1902. The plant began operations in 1903. In 1909, the area's residents voted to split from West Seneca, forming the city of Lackawanna.
With most of the city's workers employed by Lackawanna Steel, city affairs often revolved around events at the mill. Several attempts to organize a labor union at the mill resulted in violence. In 1910, a strike was broken by mounted police, who killed one worker. In 1919, steel workers formed a union again and joined the nationwide Steel strike of 1919. The workers were joined by sympathy strikes in adjacent companies, and two picketing workers were killed by company guards. Although the strike lasted into the summer of 1920, well after the national strike had ended, the union failed to win recognition from the company. As a result of the strike, Lackawanna elected a Socialist mayor, John H. Gibbons. After another violent strike in 1941, the CIO finally succeeded in negotiating a contract for the Lackawanna steel workers.
In 1922, the Bethlehem Steel Company acquired the Lackawanna Steel Company. With the 20th-century growth of the Bethlehem Steel plant, at one time the largest in the world, came the continued growth of the city and its institutions. At its peak, the plant employed 20,000 people. It attracted immigrants from many lands to settle and make their homes. Due to industrial restructuring in the latter half of the 20th century, as well as property tax assessment increases levied on the plant by the city, the steel plant declined in business and eventually closed in 1983, following massive job layoffs.
In the 21st century, efforts have been made to develop the former steel plant brownfields to other uses. The site has a diversity of tenants, some occupying buildings remaining from the former steel plant and a few in newer buildings. Opponents say that the brownfield is not safe and claim that contaminants in the field have caused cancer and other medical issues. United States Environmental Protection Agency reports are still ongoing and contested. Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton Statement & Releases March 20, 2006
As part of redevelopment, wind turbines were built on the former Bethlehem Steel property in 2007. These initial eight 2.5 megawatt turbines will provide power for up to 9,000 households and are considered a sustainable energy source.
The Buffalo Harbor South Entrance Light was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2007.
On November 9, 2016, a major fire broke out at the former galvanizing plant of the Bethlehem Steel complex. |
Lackawanna, New York | Railroads | Railroads
The Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad, originally the Lackawanna and Western Railroad, operated from 1851 to 1960. In 1960 it was consolidated with the Erie Railroad to become the Erie Lackawanna Railway. This operated until 1976, when it was absorbed by Conrail. |
Lackawanna, New York | Notable court case | Notable court case
The city of Lackawanna was the defendant in the 1971 district court decision Kennedy-Park Homes Association v. City of Lackawanna. This decision forbade the municipal government (Lackawanna) from interfering with the construction of a low-income housing development in a predominantly white section of the city. The court ruled such action would amount to racial discrimination. |
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