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Karl R. Josker | profile | all galleries >> Galleries >> Buffalo tree view | thumbnails | slideshow

Buffalo

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Once Upon A Time In Buffalo
:: Once Upon A Time In Buffalo :: 		Crystal Beach
:: Crystal Beach :: 		The Comet: Then and Now
:: The Comet: Then and Now :: 		The Churches Of Buffalo
:: The Churches Of Buffalo ::
The Bars Of Buffalo
:: The Bars Of Buffalo :: 		Death of a Church
:: Death of a Church :: 		The Larkin Warehouses
:: The Larkin Warehouses :: 		The German Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum
:: The German Roman Catholic Orphan Asylum ::
The Market Arcade
:: The Market Arcade :: 		This Was Buffalo
:: This Was Buffalo :: 		The Schools Of Buffalo
:: The Schools Of Buffalo :: 		St. Ann's RC Church
:: St. Ann's RC Church ::
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Rich Peschio 29-Oct-2019 16:35
My Father owned a bar at 527 Niagara Street called The Amber Bar. He would tell me about all the Canadians that would come in every day and a lot of other crazy stories. I would love a picture of the establishment if one exists..
Sarah 16-Feb-2018 15:16
Hi,
Looking for pictures of a restaurant called the BenKeel (maybe Benkeel?). My Grandma (deceased 2006) owned it sometime in the 50s or 60s and it was located on Delaware near Johnson Park. The Underground (bar) is located in the building now.
philip 16-Mar-2017 21:26
I have a penny square quilt of the Pan American Exposition of 1901.The last date on the quilt is 1902.It is signed " Grace Stine" at 169 Breckenridge st.I cannot find any old photos or old streetviews with a photo of this house only an empty patch of land between two still standing homes.I am wondering if any photos still exist? i would also love any info about Grace and her family but so far even ancestry.com has not helped me.I have been in touch with many Buffalo institutions such as libraries,universities,architects etc,but the mystery still persists.
Greg 21-Mar-2016 02:02
Does anyone else remember the old entrance to Children's Hospital on Bryant St. where the arches are? I remember as a child circa1958 right in the middle in the lobby area was a large fish tank.
Mark 01-Dec-2015 18:05
Looking for a photo of the intersection of Main St. and Jefferson Ave. circa 1960. Any ideas?
Carole Kancar 10-Sep-2015 17:23
We're looking for an old photo of the WWII Monument at Houghton Park in Kaisertown. . .when it was situated in front of the tennis courts. . .Thanks, Carole Kancar
Steve 31-Dec-2013 05:04
Hi everyone.... 1980 - 82 I lived at Hotel Lenox which had a pretty good
piano bar and if I turned left out of the hotel, down a block, turn left again and
went 2 blocks there was a great jazz bar. I used to go there around midnight on Friday
and Saturday night. Also remember a place called Scott Street Station which had pretty
good jazz. Buffalo was a fun place in the late 70s and early 80s. ....... Steve
Bradley 07-Dec-2013 16:09
I am looking for photos of the old Amherst Bowling Center of years ago. If anyone has any interior photos and of the people working and hanging out there, id love to see them. Please forward them to me at bfryling1@roadrunner.com. thanks.
Kain 20-Mar-2013 16:23
What? No pictures of Woolworth's or even Grant Street from the 80s or 90s? Or even in the modern day? That is disappointing. :-(

Nevertheless, the pictures you have on here are pretty impressive. It is a shame Buffalo went down the poop slide, as it was such a great city with so much history.
scott 23-Dec-2012 04:58
I'm also looking for pics of the sycamore st rocket i loved playing on that as a child if anyone has picks to send me that would be awsome . as a child i remember it being five stories high id like to see really how big it was and share stories with my kids. it had water sprinklers to if i remember rite.my email is
nickybokkersmom@yahoo.com thanks if you can help.
Rolf Bergqvist 02-Jul-2012 08:26
Very nice pictures. I am search photo of 211 Stevens Street 1930-1940- My uncle Karl Bergqvist (Carl Johnson) has live there and he died in 1943.
www.rolleshemsida.se
al 13-Apr-2012 21:00
does anyone have a photo of the rocket slide that was at sycamore playground in the 70's early 80's i would love to share these good times with my children also i am looking for a photo of the largest snowball buffalo,s ever seen which we all rolled into the middle of sycamore street what a blast thanks for any help.
Guest 04-Dec-2011 15:24
Wow! Thanks for posting the pics....so nice to think and remember. I still run back and forth from Buffalo to Schenectady; but so many places I don't get to see or visit anymore. This is nice.
Mike Mondia 28-Sep-2011 19:08
Every so often, when I get home sick, I come to this site. It helps a lot. Great pics that only someone from Buffalo can truly understand.
GO BILLS 3-0 so far (as of 9/28/11 on the way to a 10-6 season and the AFC East title.
Check my Football blog @ www.bestfantasyfootballblog.com
or my day job (which I also love) at: www.witenterprises.biz
bad Luck 17-May-2011 16:38
Wonderful photo's but can't see how you could have missed Casey's (Hertel or Elmwood) in the bar section. It was the bar.
Rosemary Gorzynski Parkinson 22-Mar-2011 03:07
I grew up on Smith and Broadway right near Broadway. I had so many great times there. Use to walk around the block and visit with friends all the time. I went to St. Anns and now look at the church and want to cry. It was a beautiful church. Buffalo is still great .
Paul D 08-Mar-2011 03:42
This is just one outstanding siteshowing a great city as it was and is! Well done Mr. Josker,well done.
Michele 24-Feb-2011 02:41
I know you are my Mom who signed in as guest. Don't forget Andre's for tripe, Andy's, Dorrone's, the Anchor Bar, Watson's, Your Host in Riverside, Mr. Donut, the grill on Tonawanda St. with the best fries, and the place Daddy always ordered steak and dandelions.
Guest 21-Feb-2011 15:39
Born on Niagara Street and went to the old school 49 and then Grover Cleveland H.S. The west side was beautiful then. Mostly Italian neighborhood. The Golden Key for pizza, Buddy's for clams, Ted's at the Peace Bridge for hot dogs and the best onion rings. The Holy Angels Tombola which morphed into the Italian Festivals of today. Moved to Florida in 1995 but Buffalo is still my home town.
Roger Swan 19-Jan-2011 21:34
I to lived in the local s-called 'Strip' neighborhood at 133 Ashland Ave. in the 1950's. My parents owned and operated the 'Bryant Elms' restaurant that was located on Bryant Ave. between Elmwood Ave. and Ashland Ave. Prior to that we lived at the corner of Bryant and Norwood Ave. (154 Norwood Ave.) which was one block farther West.
guest 04-Jan-2011 01:29
Thank you Karl R. Josker!! Your website is wonderful and is appreciated greatly!! My family lived in "The Elmwood Strip" area, on Lexington Ave. from 1949 until family left in 1995. My parents were born in Buffalo, they would never have left by choice. I chose to leave in 1973, but came home often during the years they remained there. I try to come "home" every year or so, because I truly miss it. I love Buffalo, but my soul needs a warmer, always outdoors climate. Thank you again Karl!
kw 03-Jan-2011 06:53
Any pictures of the Korney Gang ???? Polish Gang on the east side of buffalo in the 1920's era .....
James D. 07-Nov-2010 09:19
Does anyone have information on Harlem Bowl In that was located on Harlem Road on east side of street between Cheektowaga Town Park and Walden Avenue? Thought to have burned down in the 1960's. Thanks.
Penny 01-Jun-2010 04:52
I'm looking for photos of my grandfather's drugstore -- it was the Hamlin Park pharmacy at Ferry St. and Wohlers. It was there during the 1960's and before that. His name was Phil Dorfman and he was called "Doc" by all of the neighbors, because he used to give people free medicine. He had a woman who worked for him named Cookie who lived in the neighborhood. Thanks to anyone who might have anything.
Louise 14-Dec-2009 23:16
looking for any pics of a mansion that was called Shore Acres on Hamburg trnpke, in Lakeview,Erie Cty. My Mom lived there awhile back in the early 1900's (she 92 now) Want to know if it still around. thank you
claudia smigelski 10-Sep-2009 08:31
HELLO! ANYONE THAT HAS PHOTOS OR INFO @ A DUCKPIN BOWLING ALLEY, BRUNNERS, ON CLINTON STREET AND UNION RD. IN GARDENVILLE N.Y. PLEASE GET BACK TO ME. MY FATHER, WHO IS 86 ( VINCENT STADLER) SET PINS THERE AS A CHILD AND ASKS ME @ DUCKPIN BOWLING DAILY. I DID FIND OUT @ RUBBERBAND DUCKPIN BOWLING BUT NOTHING ON THE LONG GONE BRUNNERS ALLEY. THANKS, CLAUDIA...P.S. HE LIVED A SHORT DISTANCE FROM ARTIST CHARLES BURCHFIELD AND REMEMBERS HIM WALKING HIS 2 DOGS IN THE AREA...IF ONLY HE WAS A GARBAGE PICKER AND PICKED UP HIS CAST OFFS!! HAHAHA!!
Suzanne Bahls 03-Aug-2009 23:08
Suzane Bahls - I was born in Buffalo in 1934 and lived there until 1979. It will always be home to me.So many have lived there all their lives and died there without ever leaving. It is that kind of city. The people are wonderful and friendly. Proud people and true Americans. I went to PS 59 and East High School. Worked at Ellicott Square and spent most of my married life there. Thankyou so much for all the wonderful memories. Please keep this going...
Bill Bradl 14-May-2009 19:43
Do I rembemr Lercczaks log cabin!!I graduated in 1959 from Canisus college,one of Ma's daughtersI believe went to nite school at Canisius,and Ma always had a soft spot in her heart for us.Every Fri nite during the summer ,It was out to Lerczaks. Had some great times there. Ma wld always be standing at the door,checking proof,and then guiding you to the bar ,cldn't get in without buying that first beer..bill bradl
Mary Lerczak 24-Mar-2009 14:59
My grandmother was Ma Lerczak and I would love to see any photos anyone may have of the log cabin in its heyday..thank you! Mary Lerczak
Bonnie Eschborn 22-Mar-2009 00:24
Bonnie Eschborn
Thank you for this site. It is Buffalo in all it's glory. I am starting a group "Rediscover Riverside" to recapture the glory of the area I grew up in. Come join us let's "REDISCOVER BUFFALO'
Diane Sheppard 24-Jan-2009 21:58
Just wanted to express my thanks for the wonderful photos. They capture many parts of my family history ... St. Mary's Infant Asylum for Doc Metzen, Precinct 5 for John Metzen Sr., Grain elevators and Sts. Columba/Brigid Church for my Breen ancestors, The Comet and Crystal Beach for my fond memories. Wonderful trip back ...
elias 07-Oct-2008 01:11
hello natalia duran, i too am from ecuador, but born and raised in buffalo. your request has tugged on my heartstrings. my parents have always shown me that ecuadoreans always help each other and i would love to help you with your search. my email is edamian@roadrunner.com . please contact me and i will help you with your search.

this site is fabulous. i love the pictures. you see buffalo the way i see it, in all its glory.
Natalia Duran 21-Jul-2008 17:35
My name is Natalia Duran I´m from Ecuador, I lived in Buffalo 18 years ago, I was extrange student on The Schrader Family, I hadn´t have contact with them the last 10 years, I really want to find speccialy Joy, and Jeff the youngest of the family, we lived in Berg Road, I thing it´s never too late to find them whom was part of my life.
If anyone have known Schrader family or even their neighbors The Bucholtz, Dan and Kevin, they maybe still have contact. I hape someone can help me Thank you Natalia
Guest 06-Jul-2008 21:37
iam patricia muscato baez, born in buffalo in 1951, lived there on the west side all my life until 10 years ago`, moved to ga, I love buffalo!
Iris 28-Jun-2008 00:18
Buffalo a wonderful city. I was not born in Buffalo but have lived here for 50 years, so it's home. I'm leaving next year tired of the cold winters. Does any one have pictures of Busti ave back in the sixties? Especially the part that is long gone used for highway or school 1. Please send pic if you do.
Guest 20-Jun-2008 03:25
Oops that was Mr. Reinstein - not Mr S - the man who kindly asked me not to trespass on his land due to his concern of humans spooking the animals. His land was beautiful with the ponds, wild life and snapping turtles. I truly share his love for wild life and nature.
- Rest in Peace
Guest 20-Jun-2008 03:13
And the comments placing blame on our city leaders are dead on. I used to hike the Stiglmeier Park area in Cheektowaga and road my ATV via old abandoned R/R tracks to Lake Erie and Alden and points north and south. Then in the late 80's those abandoned tracks were sucked up by property owners that backed up to the tracks. Hundreds of miles of wild life corridors, hiking and Mt Bike access fenced off. When I spoke to the Stiglmeier Park director and the town of Cheektowaga - the answer was tough luck. Mr S the nicest man I met while trespassing on his land certainly didn't want this and must be rolling in his grave.
Gary Acker 15-Jun-2008 15:00
This sites sure bring back a lot of memories. No longer live in Buffalo but Buffalo will always be part of me. I lived on the east side, south side, Tonawanda. Graduated from South Park. Man how time flies. Still miss Buffalo even though its been years. Great City and even better people.
lucian siepielski 03-Jun-2008 22:13
CB was a fond memory. The beach was a favorite and I remember visiting it and all the good times we had there. This is a great forum. Thanks for the memories.
Guest 20-Mar-2008 21:36
What about the Fargo Grill? Didn't know where to post the comment, there should be a restaurant section! Loved going there with my parents & sister. Always had the raviolis. Wish I could remember the waitress's name, seemed like we got the same one all of the time. Also, loved the giant slide in the parking lot. My dad AlWAYS went down it with me. I was too frighted on my own.
Pat 20-Mar-2008 19:16
"What happened to Buffalo?" everyone asks. It's painfully simple. Politicians who care more for their party and not their city and most of all, unions, both public and private, who care ONLY about themselves.
Al/Corning NY 08-Mar-2008 04:04
Does anyone know where I can find pictures of the buildings on Erie Street in the 1970's before the Erie Basin Marina was built? It would seem that someone would have taken pictures of that area previous to it being demolished.
J Wright 06-Mar-2008 18:56
Mark-As they say, people who migrate from north to south raise the IQ in both regions. Is Buffalo a hole? I could say parts of Venice are holes and equally sad, it's a matter of persepctive & seeing what you choose to see & understand. Yet the city is not burning as I write, parts are dying while other parts are thriving. Your attitude is that of a mercenary who has no connection to a physical place, you thrive off an area then go leaving nothing behind.
Mark Ciprich 01-Mar-2008 21:43
MY wife and I move to Charlotte NC ten tears ago. We visit often and miss the food and teams and family but not the weather and the AWFUL taxes and politics. I have a 3000sqf house on ten acres and my taxes.....$1300 a year total. My house gos up in value even as the economy is currently tanking nationally. We think about retiring to the finger lakes region in the summers + someplace warm in the winters. Buffalo is a hole. It might have been great but now it's just sad!
Marcia 22-Feb-2008 15:18
Beautiful pictures that bring back wonderful memories of growing up in a great city. Left the area in '83 for Cleveland & have since retired to Steamboat Springs. Would never consider moving back to Ohio but miss Buffalo - we remain loyal Bills/Sabres fans. I remember the beautiful Ellicott Square Building & the lovely old homes on Delaware Ave.
The tree-lined parkways make this city very unique. Always love going back for visits. Anyone remember the clam bars on Niagara St. & Anderson's for a lemon ice?
skip 09-Feb-2008 08:41
would anyone have apicture of Offerman stadium? damm if i can find one
Bob 17-Oct-2007 15:01
By chance would anyone have a picture of the original Teds Hotdog stand under the Peace bridge? BHig776898@aol.com
AMO 16-Oct-2007 22:17
What happened to the Buffalo so many of us loved and left? Two words: Atlas shrugged!
Mike M 28-Sep-2007 23:21
I love Buffalo and was happy to see the Coit house in the homes section; however, I was suprised that George Coit was not mentioned in the Notable Persons page. He is, afterall, primarily responsible for bringing the shipping industries to Buffalo and thus putting it on the map. Just a thought. Love your site. ...and to the guest that loves feed, try Mike's Subs, Ted's Redhots, and Charlie the Butcher!
Wayne Kaffai 13-Sep-2007 18:56
Great pictures,I remember going to Crystal Beach with my mother when I was a kid. For the company picnic, another thing of the past.
Scott 12-Sep-2007 14:07
This is a fantastic gallery. Very talented photographer.
Selene Kranz 24-Aug-2007 15:30
What a treasure...And what a gracious gesture, to share. I can't wait to take the time to savor each photo gallery.
Joe Alessi 20-Aug-2007 14:16
Growing up on the West-side in the Lake View projects was without a doubt a terrific experience. On a typical summer day you left in the morning and headed to the front park, unless of course there was a baseball game in the play ground or, strike out (pitching a ball at a square drawn in the wall of the building),a friend bat and ball were the only things needed for hours of fun. Some times we played, Lam the goose or dodge ball, I still have some scars from these games. Heading to the park usually meant spending time on an old Locomotive parked on the south side of LaSalle park or tossing stones at rowers from the point or swimming at the pool. You went in for lunch and supper, no one worried about being abducted only getting your butt kicked by some guys from Riverside. Public school #1 and the clam stands on Busti are all gone now. We can thank our politicians, over the top liberals and uncontrolled integration for the demise of one of the most beautiful and culturally rich city in America. When I go back today all I see are remnants of a once proud West-side that only exist in our memories. All a kid needed back then was a pocket knife and a magnifying glass to fry bugs and on the weekend $.25 for the Niagara show and popcorn or play pool at the Butler Mitchel boys club. They say you can't go back, however, I did when I saw some of these pictures. One can only hope the City can reinvent itself and regain the once proud swagger of the past. Thanks for the journey.
steve zotara 12-Aug-2007 21:45
love this city all the pepole and sports whast not to love
Jude Kachelmeyer 25-Jul-2007 21:51
This is making me soooo homesick! I miss my old hometown! Jude Kachelmeyer
Guest 16-Jul-2007 19:28
Gotta love the nickle city....The best pizza anywhere!! Mighty Taco!! Friday fish frys!! Duffs suicide wings!!! Yeah....I love FEED!! Can't forget the 12th MAN!!!

Al Snyder
Barbara (Kiedrowski) Shuckra 05-Jul-2007 18:22
My parents owned a grocery store on Fillmore Avenue on the east side of Buffalo. My Mom and Aunt would take six of us, by city buses, to take the boat to Canada. On Sundays, when our store closed at 1 p.m., my Dad drove us cross the Peace Bridge (USA, 25 cents) to Crystal Beach. My Dad always said that there would still be room for our family and there was. We bought the suckers. My friend Laurie even sent me some of them to my CT home when my kids were little so that they and I could savor the wonderful flavors. I believe he bought them at Loblaws after CB closed. When I began my career with the IRS in Buffalo, I was asked how many times I had been to a foreign country. I didn't see the tiny print "including Canada." I never thought of Canada as a foreign country because we were there all the time. We even did the trip to Niagara Falls after dances! Those were simple times.
Thank you for the memories.
Tim 13-Dec-2006 21:30
Good pictures of War Memorial Stadium, but please post pictures of the Aud for us hockey fans!
Frank Dombrowski 27-Oct-2006 20:56
Man this was great. I grew up in the Delaware park area and went to Bennett high. I left in 1972 and this is like a visit back. I wish I could have seen pic of the Buffalo Zoo or Bocces pizza or santoras rest. or how about delaware Park? this was great. Frank Dombrowski
Barbara 07-Aug-2006 22:42
I just love the old old pictures. Especially the Crystal Beach pic. I remember when I was quite young and got on the boat to go to Crystal Beach. When we were on the boat and seen the comet from a distance it was so exciting because you knew we were close to the park. It brought back special memories. I do wish they never took away that exciting ride because the children now would just love it. Barb S.
Tim S. 07-Aug-2006 03:44
Buffalo is, you might say, "in my blood." Sadly I am planning on leaving but will be less than four hours away--for a job. I do feel bad about the decline that has taken place even in just the past couple decades: churches closing, downtown restaurants...just the other day I was reciting those many little places to eat downtown, just 15-20 years ago. So in a way it is less sad to be leaving at this time, but I will be back to visit often. My hope is for better days for this city that I have been so connected to since my youth.
Dan Longo 30-Jul-2006 18:34
Karl: You've captured the wonderful variety we had growing up in a city of neighborhoods. In South Buffalo, we had parks, playgrounds and shady streets lined with those beautiful, arched elms. The city forestry dept did a great job pruning them every few years to keep them shaped. Church, school, relatives and grandparents were all in walking distance. And the merchants along South Park, Abbott and Seneca seemed to have everything you needed. I tell my folks that Buffalo in the 50's and 60's was the height of Western Civilization.
Rose 16-Jul-2006 10:56
All the memories. Went to St. Luke's grammer school, Genesee St. shows,moved to Cheektowaga graduated from Sloan High, married at St. Bernards on Clinton St. hung out at the ice cream parlor on Genesee St, Bowling Alley on Clinton St (Kaiser Town) left
in 1963 moved to Rochester, stayed 43 years, now living in Atlanta (it's the weather) but will always miss the Sky Lodge, Buccaneer,747, Clarendon, Jimmy Buccino and Al Vino.
Always thought I'd move back. Thanks for the great pictures
Jim Cassatt02-Jun-2006 22:04
I grew up in Buffalo and moved away in 1969. Browsing through your pictures brings back a lot of old memories.

Thanks for posting them

Jim
Guest 03-Mar-2006 15:35
I've travelled allot and if it's one thing I brag about to all my friends outside of Buffalo is the number of old churches per ca pita and per sq. mile. No where in the world have I seen what I've seen here and now Karl has taken the time capture it with this magnificent web site. I can't wait to see your additions. Hopefully shots of the interiors will be add too.
Erick 02-Mar-2006 13:30
What a great website. Thank you.
Barbara 19-Feb-2006 16:01
Great Pictures, I loved the ones from Crystal Beach, they brought back some memories. Even though I was born and raised in NFNY we went to Buf quite often. My husband and I now reside in Vermont and get back a few time a year to visit friend and relatives. Thanks for the memories.
Guest 12-Feb-2006 20:33
Moved from Buffalo to Atlanta 20 years ago.
Here's a similar site for Atlanta that shows then and now pics. The now pics show that the same areas are not that much worse for the wear over the years.

http://atlantatimemachine.com/index.htm

But Atlanta is a different place with different mentalities and beaurocracies.
Buffalo is still very special to me, and I pray for the revitalization of a city with so many wonderful memories and still so much to offer.
Shirley R. Ford_Short (Walters) 11-Feb-2006 00:27
I have had your site on my computer for some time now. I love the fact that when I came back to visit from tiem to time that I see something new and wonderful. Only someone form Bufflo, my home town could do that.
You have truly cought the essence of The Good Neighbor city.
I know that Buffalo hasn't grown as fast as we would all like. I believe that it's time has come. The tide is changing. However I hope not to the point that the true spirit is lost.
We all need to come home from time to time and we need to see that some things don't change. You site will keep the constant that we need as the changes begin to take place.
I will be back in Bufflao in the spring. I look forward to the trip down memory lane and the excitment of seeing waht is new.
Thankyou for your in-(Site) on Buffalo, My home town.Shirley Ford-Short
Guest 03-Feb-2006 02:01
Dolly - Tampa, FL
Buffalo is a great city. I left 19 years ago with the intention of moving back in six months but when I came home for a visit I couldn't get a job!!! Now a husband and two kids later, we have roots firmly planted in Tampa. Even a majority of my family has moved down here. Buffalo will always be home though. Buffalo in the summertime is one of the best places on earth to be! we had a cottage in Evangola growing up. Later, during college (Buff State), my friend had a cottage at Crystal Beach and we would spend our days on the beach and our nights in Buffalo at the PM, Checkers, Cole's, No Name's.I miss Ted's. They do have the best hot dogs and onion straws. I wouldl ove to see some picture sof Delaware Park. I walked by there almost everyday of my 23 years in Buffalo. I had to move to Tampa to get a football team that won a SUperbowl and a hockey team to win the Stanley Cup. I have to admit, I am a Lightning fan now but my heart will always be with the Bills.
Benson 24-Jan-2006 17:34
Buffalo used to be one of those great American cities in the 30's and 40's, now its just become one of those typical decaying cities scattered across this country. I remember in the 50's as a child going with my dad to Toronto to watch a hockey game, and then always feeling proud to come back to Buffalo because it was such a better and far more impressive city than Toronto. Now when I travel to Toronto I am just amazed at how much has changed. Now Toronto is far more impressive and grander than Buffalo and I feel a little ashamed coming back from my trips to Toronto. Buffalo is no longer even worthy of being compared to Toronto, but a long time ago we used to snicker at folks from Toronto because Buffalo was so much better. What happened? where did the ambition go? Our downtown is a complete bore, streets empty of people. Our roads look like something you find in Guatamala, there is hardly any new construction going on. There are a few attempts being made to revive our city, but the attempts are rather lame and show little promise. Thankfully Toronto is only an hour drive away!
Guest 16-Jan-2006 13:58
Born in 1958, survived the blizzard of 77, graduated in Clarence NY a suburb, moved away in 81 and moving to St. Augustine, Florida, why? Because there are so many NY'rs there. I can relate to all the previous comments and aside from the best food are the best, most friendly people and they are NY'rs. Tops friendly markets is my absolute favorite place to shop when I am there. I'm proud to say I'm from Buffalo, although it's only a place where I visit my family, it will always be home. Thanks for sharing the memories and the photo's!
Kathleen Regan 12-Jan-2006 13:56
I left Buffalo for SW Florida after I graduated from college in 1998. Now, 8 years and 2 kids later, Im trying to find my way back. My husband and I read the Buffalo News and watch the classified ads for hope. The down side will mean higher taxes, lower wages and cold weather. The bright side? Our family, our heritage, community, the sports, four seasons (no hurricanes!), and a sense of belonging. And..I have this notion that I could make a difference, and it starts by moving back, bringing some fresh ideas, and becoming involved. Thanks for the pictures, they fuel my fire!
Guest 10-Jan-2006 18:29
We visted Buffalo for a computer training class in June 05. We spent a day on Elmwood-and loved it!
Jan Adams 09-Jan-2006 07:04
Wonderful galleries. Thank you. I was born in Buffalo in 1947 and left in 1965. It was probably true for me that there was more elsewhere. But the city had many beauties. I had family there until 1999 and so visited often and came to know the place as an adult as well as having childhood memories.

It is good to see the historical pictures especially. My mother worked at the old Larkin Company in the 30s; my father worked, among other places, at Bell Aircraft.

Thanks for the great archiving work.
Guest 07-Jan-2006 06:47
RE: "Bars of Buffalo:

Is The Governer's Inn still around? It was on Sycamore Street.
Sharon Robb 01-Jan-2006 20:26
Hi, just moved back to my home town of Lancaster. Sarasota Fl is beautiful for millionares and Privatization(I'm going to write a article on that little endeavor) The rich are getting richer and the regular folk are boarding up their windows in anticipation of the Hurricane of the Month. I love it here and have missed the friendly people, pizza,sports and the beauty of the seasons. See ya at kISSING BRIDGE! GO bILLS!
Sharon Buchholz Robb
Mike 22-Dec-2005 00:10
I recently moved from Buffalo to Arizona and, at this early juncture, don't regret it. I was more or less 'forced' to leave because of the relatively dismal job market (I have my Master's from the University at Buffalo, but could only find jobs paying $7-$9 per hour). It is December and I'm enjoying balmy days here in southern Arizona while my brethren in WNY deal with gray skies, cold and lake effect snow. I miss my family and have yet to find a decent restaurant where I live (it's amazing what people who live in other areas of the country consider decent food - BLEAH!). There are many 'little things'that make living in the Buffalo area special - the Bills, Sabres and a host of others. What I don't miss about Buffalo and WNY in general is the ridiculous good-old-boy politics, the somewhat backward mindset of many people who reside there, potholes, blighted communities, lack of vision, and the eons it takes to get anything done (see Peace Bridge, waterfront development, etc., etc.).

I love Arizona, and it would take a lot for me to consider moving back to WNY. I would do so only if the area got its economic and political acts together. That said, I feel Buffalo's future is bright; it's just a question of how long it'll take to reach the light.
Tony Battaglia 21-Dec-2005 19:17
Wow! Is it 40 years since I left Buffalo? Wonderful memories of Canisius High School, Canisius College and the great times had there. Cole's Restaurant was a mandatory watering-hole, and who can forget Ma Lerczak's in Angola, or the cottages at Sherkston? Going back there next year for my 55th High School Reunion from Canisius, and can't wait to see my old classmates! Meanwhile, living in Florida does have a few advantages!
kathy z. 17-Dec-2005 01:54
the pics are great and bring back great times. I wish there were some pics of Niagara Falls and Ted's (miss REAL hotdogs.) Can't wait to get back for a visit!!!!
Alana 12-Dec-2005 14:17
When people ask where I'm from, I say, "Buffalo" despite the fact that I've been in the NYC metro area since 1980. I miss everything, but it was a shock to see that the rest of the world does not have Friday night fish fries, beef on weck, 3 hours when everything closes on Good Friday, butter lambs, the Broadway Market or a cemetary that comes close to the beauty and history of Forest Lawn. The site was fantastic, but I missed seeing my high school, Mount Saint Joe's (ever notice that those from Buffalo always ask a new acquaintance "where did you go to high school"),Canisius HS, Sherkston beach (remember the Canadian Bacon and Cheese on the route home?). Thanks for the memories. Maybe we'll retire to Buffalo!
Mike Kurek 09-Dec-2005 03:40
Wow, what incredible memories... I had left the area after the Blizzard of 77. After living in places like Turkey and Texas we decided to move to a warmer climate in Southeastern Virginia; where schools are closed after 1" of snow falls on the ground. We miss terribly the friends, acquaintances and family we had left behind and these reminders take us back to a much more pleasant time. Thanks for sharing in your wealth of Buffalo History...
Michael ( Mike ) Stark 01-Dec-2005 15:09
I am Connie Stark Moffat,s brother Mike Stark a graduate of PS 80, Canisius Highschool, attended Canisius College pre Engr'g and graduated from the Univ of Detroit. Though I have lived and traveled all over the world, Buffalo holds a warm spot in my heart and the culture and traditions that I got from Buffalo have been passed on to my children and grand children.
Connie Stark Moffat 01-Dec-2005 14:22
Oh my, I love this. I was CONSTANCE IRENE THERESA STARCZEWSKI STARK. My Dad, Michael F. Stark, Sr., worked for Sattler's, 998 Broadway and I enjoyed all the great sales. The shoes were wired together at the back and it was always a standing joke about walking with your heels wired together. I grew up on Lisbon Avnue and attended St. Aloyisus Church. Married a very nice Bostonian at Sacred Heart Church in Bowmansville (my parents moved us there while I was in High School. Great city of family and friends.
Blaszkiewicz; Katy 29-Nov-2005 00:14
No New York Central Terminal? What a shame. Two pictures of City Hall but none of the most gorgeous Building in Buffalo. Even now,in its current condition, it is still quite a sight to see.
ROSEMARY GORZYNSKI 25-Nov-2005 16:13
I too grew up on the Eastside of Buffalo. The Broadway Fillmore area. Actually Smith and Broadway area. I had great friends and family that we could walk to. Not have to drive miles to see. Neighbors looked out for neighbors and all children had a good time. Parades were great on Broadway we waited for them ever year. Set up in Sattlers (998 Broadway) and finish at St. Ann's on Broadway. Wow we just couldn't wait. To see Santa at the end was great. Easter time we could walk to the 7 Churches and didn't have to worry about having problems. There were so many Churches to choose from or how about all the restaurants. Go to the corner and catch a city bus to go downtown to all the theaters and see the movies. We use to go to the movies at the Rivoli or Roosevelt show for a quarter and sit for hours watching the movies and then go for an ice cream at the local ice cream parlor. And that is where all our friends were. I can still remember the first movie I saw without my parents along (The Day The Earth Stood Still). Roller skating at the St. Ann's or Ice Skating at Hombolt park. And every summer we went to Crystal Beach. What a joy. Buffalo had it all.
Guest 14-Nov-2005 04:30
I grew up on the eastside-when it was still Pulaski day & Koschieusko day parades in the city, between Bailey Ave. & Fillmore. The Lincoln Theater at Titus & Broadway-35 cents admission, grape pop or a pepsi was a nickel, a bag of popcorn was a nickel-7 cents with butter, & a box of jawbreakers to throw at someone when the lights were turned down was a nickel..The Rivoli theater, Bailos Roast Beef, P & D Market at Broadway & Peck St, Sattlers 998 Broadway, Neisners; "The Fields" on Shlenker St.-great sledding; bonfires, & beer & Boones Farm; pond hockey as well; street hockey on Person St, corkball at school #44; touch football on Rommel St; baseball @ Emerson Playground & Sycamore Playground; swiming at Houghton Park & Schiller Park; A Schuper of beer--pick a bar, Sportsman's, Frank's, Pat & Shirley's, Zephyr's, a banana split at the dairy bar on memorial Drive, for 13 cents, a bottle of Pepsi or RC @ Giza's Delicatessen-Broadway & Milburn; or a visit to see "Pop" @ Kaminski's grocery store...There was such a time...there was such a time; there really was.............Alex Ramsey.......
Sheila De George Whitelaw 07-Nov-2005 04:37
I live in sunny fl. now, but Bflo will always be my real home. I have such pride when I speak of Bflo. The people are friendly and kind and the food is the best in the country. No matter what restaurant you walk into you will probably have a great meal. The homes are beautiful. It's a fun town to have lived in. I'm very lucky I'm from Bflo. My son Jeff Pastore still lives there, he tried moving out once but decided to move back home as many other people I know did. Most of my friends there have 2 homes one in a warmer climate because they still can't bear to totally move out of there home town. As Bruce Springsteed once sang "My Home Town" Mine is Buffalo N.Y.
Don Goergen 05-Nov-2005 03:52
I love the City of Buffalo and what makes it great -- it's people. If the Bills should ever win the Super Bowl it would add a lot to the pride of our people. This website is fantastic !!! I would love to see Canisius College and Canisius High School; Freddie's Donuts; some water's edge shots; the Cathedral; the Botanical Gardens and maybe a Frank Lloyd Wright catagory added to this sight. I would also some suburban churches like St. Mary's of Swormville and Sts. Peter& Paul in Williamsville and Glen Falls in Williamsville. (Sorry if I mentioned something that is already here).
Tom Pisa 04-Nov-2005 13:42
I have lived in and loved Buffalo for 64 years. I am leavng soon and taking this gallery with me. I am sure this will be a treasure that I will want to keep.
Guest 01-Nov-2005 12:41
do you have any information on old dairy's that were in Buffalo
Guest 01-Nov-2005 02:48
I have lived in the Buffalo area all of my life and although I really like it here, it is a frustrating and sometimes negative place to be. BUT, the one thing that it DOES have are great, sincere, hardworking and friendly people! It often feels like everyone knows everyone, you can get across town fairly quickly, and ya'know what? In light of what's happening around the country with the weather and all....the snows' not too bad!!
Guest 31-Oct-2005 22:39
Christine James: Perry, Ohio
What an awesome website. Brings back sooooo many great memories of time spent with my parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. This website will be my eternal summer vacation. Have looked at it 6 times since getting this link three days ago! Thank you.
John Brands Jr. 31-Oct-2005 19:07
Thanks for the excellent site. The pictures brought back many memories. I was surprised there was no mention of Santasiero's. That restaurant at Lafayette and Niagara has been there since 1921. A city so rich in history, it's a shame the powers that be haven't honored the city heritage more.
Punta Gorda 30-Oct-2005 18:38
Have to agree with ex-cop Mike. Florida has it's share of bad weather but you can usually get out your door! Is there anyone out there who wants to bring a pizza business down here? I know you could make a fortune.
Ex-cop Mike 26-Oct-2005 05:35
I remember answering police calls during the Blizzard of 77 on a snowmobile.I also remember the 7 feet of snow we got in 2001 over XMas which ruined it. Florida is not heaven by any stretch. But I just can't take the grey, crappy weather, awful politics and negativity. If we could just get a real pizza down here...now that would close the deal. Nice photos. Post some Blizzard ones, though. I go home often and I put on Sandy Beach just for the heck of it and Rambo Jim is still calling in with his inane comments...scheesh! Because it never changes...it never will.
Guest 25-Oct-2005 21:51
Would love to see more pix like the Art Museum in Delaware Park, the Peace Bridge, some high schools like East (where I taught), Bennett, Hutch Tech (where I graduated), the Museum of Science where I spent a lot of time as a kid, and a shot of the old steel mills from the top of the Skyway so we can see what has happened to the lake shore since I rolled steel in the 60s to get myself through Canisius. And hey, what about 60s and 21st century shots of UB and Canisius? More, more, more. It's a fun site. Bob Yuhnke
Mary (Bergman) Kent 25-Oct-2005 20:28
Hey where was "Brunners??"---I sure do miss Buffalo!! especially around this time--
Football season!!!--Go Bills!! I also miss "Johnnys and Marys"--subs!!
I am lucky to have a little piece of Buffalo out here in Vegas............"Santoras"
restaurant!! keep on Thriving good 'ol Buff!!
Joe and Betty Bohn 23-Oct-2005 20:44
Florida has great weather but there is no place like Buffalo. People are friends and stay friends for your lifetime. We do not miss the snow but I will take it anyday over these hurricanes. I miss Letchworth Park, the Erie County Fair, Canal Fest and we all miss Crystal Beach. Brings back a lot of good memories.
Erich Fuerter 22-Oct-2005 00:37
To those of you who think that your tax dollars are strictly being used to help witht other states problems, wake up. Your city is broke. Your local politicians (democratic mayor for the last 50 years !)and totally inbread leadership - city and county wide - have offered no fresh ideas as the rest of the country embraced change and for the most part got rid of the dead wood political leaders.

Buffalos best possible leaders are either constrained from entering the political system due to the strength of the party leaders (who only take care of their own) or because they don't want to put up with the constant media criticism (hint - following political leaders to the airport when they are trying to go on vacation with their loved ones isn't exactly encouragement for others to join the political fray and put their necks out on the line !)

Somebody in Buffalo really needs to step up with bold leadership and fresh ideas, without the need or hunger for all of the patronage that comes with the job.

The pictures are nice too !
Guy & Karen 20-Oct-2005 21:18
GUY & KAREN (KOEGLER) HUMMEL

Both of us grew up in Buffalo (School 80/Cleveland Hill) and moved to suburbs (Amherst/ Clarence 68). Lived our married lives in different parts of "paradise" (New Orlean; Miami; Arlington, VA) but finally decided to retire two years ago to a sandy Lake Erie beach where the sun sets thru beautiful four seasons (even those cold clear snowy days). The big upside to those steel mills no longer dumping slag into the Lake is the clear fresh water that you can actually swim in! Most of these photographs still represent home today. Still got those Bills, Sabres, Erie County Fair, theatre, ethnic foods and international border without the traffic or hurricanes (after all, wouldn't you rather shovel snow than water?). As you can tell, we are "homies." Seems like we are running into more folks who have rediscovered the less expensive "Miami of the north".
Denise LeBlanc 20-Oct-2005 12:22
Boy I forgot how old Buffalo look. These pictures have brought back alot of old memories. Can't wait for the day I can get back to my roots and revisit all my old stomping grounds. Thanks again for share these photos with all of us.
Chris Grapes 20-Oct-2005 04:02
I was born in Buffalo in 1976 (well North Tonawanda to be exact, then moved to Tonawanda) and moved from there around 1989 because my dad got a job transfer in another state. I really miss it, and always look for sites that will bring me back to my home town at least over the internet. My aunt sent me this site, and I must say, it is awesome. It is nice to see some of the finer things in Buffalo, and some of the places I have been to and or passed at one time or another. Hope to maybe see some pics of along the Niagara River area (Old Man Rivers, Mississippi Muds, Etc). Those were my main areas where I used to hang out around. This is a wonderful site, and I am glad it was sent to me. I will surely visit it daily. Thank you for the memories.
Michael 17-Oct-2005 03:35
Thanks for the memories. I didn't recognize Burczynski, but the family had a chain of bakeries and I worked for them one summer when I was in college. I'd love to see pictures of the zoo, both old and new. I left Buffalo in 1966, but I'm still a Buffalonian
Marti & Dave 11-Oct-2005 21:36
Thank you for a wonder trip back in time. What a wonderful place Buffalo was to grow up in. My husband and I are both from the city and your wonderful pictures brought back memories long since gone like the amazing city. We live in Florida now but we never really leave Buffalo. Thanks again.
Ted Rayhill 08-Oct-2005 14:14
I couldn't help notice that many of the addresses in the list were from out of town. Well, here in Western New York we are about ready to turn out the lights since many of our friends and taxpayers are in the balmy, hurricane prone south. We will continue to send our tax dollars to you so you can repair the damages wrought by your living in "Paradise".
Gail J. Lazenby 14-Sep-2005 00:43
Karl: You certainly captured Buffalo and all of its glory. You always had "the eye" for a good picture, whether your own or someone elses. While I haven't really missed Buffalo since I retired and moved to Florida, these pictures make me homesick. Oh, for the good old days of Buffalo!
Carol H. Santucci 06-Sep-2005 16:19
What a treat! Thank you so much, and where did this collection come from? This is more than nostalgia - this is ROOTS. It amazes me how the first 18 years of life (mine in my home town of Buffalo)can have such powerful immediacy 50 years later! Does anyone have any photos of the Broadway Market, by any chance? Thanks again and again for this treasure.
Abigail Casillas-Rodriguez 03-Sep-2005 02:06
I was born in Buffalo in November, 1968 and left in June, 1988 for what I thought was the greener grass on the other side -- frantic, stressful NYC. I go back to Buffalo as often as I can, several times a year, since most of my family is still there. Boy do these pictures bring back memories. Little did I know the last time I went to Crystal Beach for my 8th grade class trip with school 18 that it would one day be gone. I'm moving back home next year to teach and these pictures help to remind me of what's most valuable -- a great place to raise kids who will have wonderful memories of childhood.
Ray Gabner 31-Aug-2005 23:17
Currently live in Atlanta after spending 35 yrs in Buffalo.Pix bring many memory s.Get back every now and then to see remaining family. Thanks for the pictures
Ed (Gary) Kotkiewicz 14-Jun-2005 03:22
I used to be a Volunteer fire fighter at South Line in Cheektowaga, I live in Georgia now
I have been here in Atlanta for almost 30 years. I don't get back to Buffalo much any more since I have no family living there any more.
Andrew Josker 06-Apr-2005 21:16
Well, I live in Panama City, Florida and my family lives in Buffalo to this day. Brent Josker and Steven are my brothers. I am Sonny's son. Frank Josker. Just curious if you are related. I have been to Lackawana a few times to visit some of the family.

Andy Josker
Len Lambert 04-Mar-2005 15:10
Outstanding pictures! What wonderful memories-Crystal Beach, Shea's Buffalo, the rockpile and of course the bars. Been gone from Buffalo since the 80's but try and get back every year. Beef on Weck and Duff's chicken wings - food for the soul. Anyone remember Major Hooples?
Mike 12-Aug-2004 15:20
Do you have any pictures of the Armory?
JOEL S. RUBIN 06-May-2004 14:52
DO YOU WANT A "CRYSTAL BEACH" =========REUNION???????????????

JOEL

DR. FOOT
Carline 25-Apr-2004 01:47
Loved the photos of the theaters. I remember the North Park so well. My friends and I would go there on a Saturday afternoon and watch a movie. That's probably the first place I can ever remember seeing a movie. It was also the place where I saw my first PG movie. The movies were so different back then (early to mid 70's). Our mothers would make us popcorn and they'd pack it in a brown paper sack (so we didn't have to spend our money). Geeze, I can't remember what it cost to watch a movie, maybe $.50. We'd try to sneak in through the side doors. I lived right around the corner on North Park. Moved out of Buffalo when I was pretty young, but that theater will always live in my memory - it always seemed so grand to me. Wish they were still made like that place!
nadine 21-Apr-2004 02:05
Great pictures of good old Buffalo. Going downtown shopping at Hengerer's and AM&A's with my mom on the bus to buy our Easter clothes, shoes, lace socks, coat, hat and gloves are my best city memories. Not to mention getting off the bus and having to walk over snow drifts taller than me. Later, I worked downtown and thought I was in the "big city" (until I eventually moved to New York City!). I wish I could go back to the good ole days.
Gail Foley Cook 16-Apr-2004 17:12
GREAT PICTURES OF THE BUFFALO I GREW UP IN. I LEFT BUFFALO IN 1978 A LOT HAS CHANGED SINCE THEN.
abe simon 10-Apr-2004 08:53
What a great website. I grew up in Buffalo from '35 to '59. The Crystal Beach site is really good. I went to Tech HS and hope to be there for its 100th anniversary weekend in late Sept 2004.
I used to work for the Corps of Engineers in the late 50's at the Black Rock Canal off Niagara near Amherst. There was a bar there called Tommy's Schuper House. It had good food and was known for it's very large glasses of beer, especially the German Dark. Did you ever see it or was it gone by your time?
Keep up the good work.
Abe Simon
Centennial CO.
PETER GIULLARI 02-Apr-2004 06:09

Thanks to you I just spent the greater part of the evening looking at and rembering things long forgotten re my youth. The pictures were mind triggering.If you have more of the Buffalo sites let me know I have a web tv and cannot save these priceless photos but I have printed out about 12 between the two Buffalo sites and Crystal Beach. Thanks again
Joan 01-Apr-2004 21:57
Thank you, thank you, thank you for bringing me back to my childhood. Buffalo in the early years was wonderful. Full of life and people going downtown shopping, eating and for entertainment. Crystal Beach was another great part of my youth. You really brought back memories and good times. Thank you again.
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