Buffalo History Museum

  Update 2024

When the Erie Canal was finished in 1825 Buffalo, at the western terminus, became an important transfer point. Grain and other goods from the Midwest  were unloaded from Great Lakes freighters onto canal boats to continue the journey to New York City. The canals also brought European immigrants to work in the rapidly growing city. By the 1870s railroads had made the canals obsolete but Buffalo continued its growth to become the the largest grain-milling center in the country with a mile of grain elevators lining the port. The opening of the St. Lawrence Seaway in 1957 allowed freighters to bypass the city which quickly declined, losing industries and half of its 1950s peak population in just a few decades.

  The museum is housed in the only building from the 1901 Pan American Exposition that was constructed as a permanent structure. The exhibits cover the Seneca Nation,  the cultural mix of immigrants to the city, the War of 1812, and the many industries that were, at one time, the mainstay of the city. The exhibits are a little outdated but one of the major galleries will be getting a makeover soon.

  Everything is accessible. The wheelchair entrance is at the west side of the building. Ring the bell for entry then follow the signs to the elevator and front desk. We didn’t visit the Japanese Garden because of a rain storm but it appears to be accessible.

The parking lot is large enough for any RV.  Museum
  42.93558, -78.87702