photo sharing and upload picture albums photo forums search pictures popular photos photography help login
Karl R. Josker | profile | guestbook | all galleries | recent
Type your message and click Add Comment
It is best to login or register first but you may post as a guest.
Enter an optional name and contact email address. Name
Name Email
help private comment
Mark Jeffries 13-Mar-2020 15:26
A nice site!
Wayne Rettke 25-Oct-2019 21:35
the building at 265 Leroy off Filmore still stands. It was built as Tabor Lutheran Church (Missouri Synod) and later changed to LCA. It was sold and merged with Kensington Lutheran.

The building property extended from Leroy to the manse on Dewey Ave.

Building had a new front and short bell tower added in 1949
Cheryl Bugelski 07-Jul-2019 13:19
Where was Holy Angels Collegiate Institute located before it merged to become Fallon High School? Thanks.
rose 09-Apr-2019 17:53
Does anyone know where George Brown of Pa is now, he had two brothers? My brother knew him in IHM, same cub pack etc.
jon morad 29-Mar-2019 08:04
Remember The Mug on Hertel across from Casey's? 1970.
Bob 25-Dec-2018 23:19
Responding to "Sue" who is looking for JOHN OPATKIEWICZ. John was my next door neighbor in Hamburg (Near Orchard Park). Back in the 70's, his parents told me he moved to California (L.A.?) to be a drummer. Heard he was very good!
Rob 25-Oct-2018 11:48
supreme site!
We To 08-Sep-2018 22:33
Nice!!
wetolow@ratchetmail.com
Wang 08-Sep-2018 22:30
Excellent sites
wangxiuying@ratchetmail.com
Roger Blakely 16-Jul-2018 04:34
Thanks for putting up this site. Well done. Enjoy reading it. rogerblakely@gmail.com
Ho dong Nguey 05-Jul-2018 02:28
great site
hodongnguyen@ratchetmail.com
Guza 15-Feb-2018 19:08
My husband and I remember boiler makers at Slombas! And loved, loved "The Locker room " on delevan! We met there and married 32yrs😁
Guest 21-Aug-2017 21:59
This is Scott Lang, I am Dave Lang's son, as a young kid I hung out with Bill Hill's sons Billy and Mark but have lost touch with them, any idea if Bill Sr. or his boys are still around?
Karl R. Josker10-May-2017 18:10
It's name was Frank's Casa Nova. Seehttp://www.pbase.com/kjosker/image/34681627
tom tonawanda 10-May-2017 13:04
Trying to remember the strip bar on the corner of bailey and e. ferry in the 50s and 60s. Can anyone help us out?
Neil White 23-Apr-2017 19:46
Great photo of Hedgewood Hotel on St. Charles in New Orleans. How can I get a copy of the photo. Thank you.
Guest 03-Mar-2017 17:35
Thank you - the site is wonderful. Found what I was looking for.
gtb 15-Nov-2016 07:34
I lived in buffalo for 12 years. I got so many stories.. :-D I describe buffalo this way. If you are walking down the street, it's a bar, a pizzeria, and a church, a bar, a pizzeria, and a church...
mj 30-Mar-2016 05:45
looking for school 1 on busti ave in the 1970's it got tore down i think 79-80
mickey 20-Jan-2016 05:27
i remember mary jane morran playing downtown at the piece pipe and the top hat on seneca.
Pete 17-Oct-2015 18:36
Whatever happended to bailos bar?
Pat Jeffares 01-Oct-2015 03:46
Karl, beautiful photography, thanks for sharing!
nate wielbon 28-Jul-2015 16:06
hello karl, nate wielbon from buffalo corr. i love your pictures, great work !
Mark S. 24-Jul-2015 21:11
I love the gallery "45 years with Jennifer". I refer people to it often to see how marriage should be and it should be forever. It parallels my own life in time period. I was not so wise and my 1st wife was not so wise. We divorced. I still don't know what to make of it. But I am happily remarried but age is taking its toll. Thanks for the memories.
coffre fort23-May-2015 18:05
Very impressive photography…
perte cheveux17-May-2015 12:03
You have beautiful pictures! Thank you!
Avoir une belle peau01-May-2015 13:06
I just leave a message to your guestbook to say thank you ;)
Brian S. of Elma NY 30-Apr-2015 01:09
It's fantastic to see so many great pics of WNY. I appreciate that exact addresses are listed with many photos, because old city directories didn't always have them (e.g., "Morgan above Main" whatever that means before numbers were assigned). Plus street names changed over the years, or streets were combined or modified, adding to my usual confusion. It's a shame that Erie County on-line property records don't go back very far, for most properties. I often try to find info on when an owner from 100+ years ago sold their property, and you have to visit County Hall (I assume) which isn't fun from a wheelchair. Thanks for listening!
Frank Murdola 21-Apr-2015 08:17
DOES anyone remember me i was at the orphanage from 1952...1958.I was in the same group with Gregory Vann, Dennis Cooper, Nick Gervasi,Walter Calkins, Pembeleton Broths, Water and James Tyrcz and Ron scoma.I WOULD LOVE TO HEAR FROM SOME OF YOU...
Michael Murray 23-Jan-2015 03:04
I am sitting here with tears in my eyes . Your relationship with that beautiful Shepherd was so sweet. I have had four of them and I was with them all from start to finish and I too cried every time one of them had to cross the Rainbow Bridge .I am happy to see a fellow dog lover with your love and passion .God bless you and pleas take care.
Pat 16-Jan-2015 19:53
Thank you for this magnificent compendium. I am especially pleased that you acknowledged those RC churches that are no longer functioning as such. Would that we would provide more respect for those churches.
mia 17-Dec-2014 04:50
Does anyone remember Sturners on Tonawanda St in the 50's?
mia 17-Dec-2014 04:48
I am requesting any info on the post from Nov 25,2014..
Guest 27-Nov-2014 16:05
there was a bar in grand island ,i think it was called the idle hour. and a band that featured a singer named bill or bob friday
Guest 25-Nov-2014 19:26
does anyone remember the minature golf in front of the Twin Fair store on Elmwood near Hinman in Buffalo back in the 60's?
Scott 14-Nov-2014 22:50
Karl,
Great photos, Im from buffalo also and your pis were presented to me on a search of buffalo bars. I was trying to remember a band that I used to see at Septembers in cheektowaga and your pbase site poped up with a google search for septembers cheektowaga. I am also a pbase member "sgorenflo" and I thought that was so cool. unfortunately I can not remember the bans or dont see septembers in your pics either.
Guest 13-Sep-2014 22:22
I don't think I will ever be able to get over the shock at finding out what happened on September 13, 1971. I was in high school in NYC and saw the footage on the evening news of the helicopter gassing the prison yard, the extensive injuries and deaths, and the fact that none of the state police were willing to be interviewed. Attica '71 will stay with me for the rest of my life.
marian 21-Aug-2014 18:52
been looking for all school's yr books of 73 to 79..school i'm looking for are...number 1 that is not there anymore but looking for yr book..also school 36 they change name ,and southside and grove looking for all yr books on them school's would like to find if can help thanks ..buffalo ny
shayne hopper 31-Jul-2014 21:31
Great site
Jeffrey Siegel 06-Apr-2014 03:07
When my mother was in the Hospital for treatment, I stayed with my grandparents who lived on East Ferry Street, across the old baseball stadium,...just down the street from Rich's Dairy. Twice a week my grandparents and others would have a very late dinner...around 11 to 11:30 at a restaurant/bar/lounge that was located on Main Street not very far from East Ferry. It was called the Checkerboard ??? I just stumbled upon this site, and I'm sending it to my mother (90 years old) and her two sisters. I really enjoy the Once Upon A Time in Buffalo.
Guest 05-Feb-2014 21:15
Trying to locate Barb Johnson that lived on Cleveland Dr in Town of Tonawanda during the 60's. Any help any one?
Guest 27-Jan-2014 22:12
Writing from Florida. Anyone remember the Kenmore Tavern? We called it the KT. Any info on it?
Cheryl Peters 27-Jan-2014 05:07
Hi, lovely page..Do you happen to know what happened to annex 61, the old wooden school.
Thank you.
Guest 12-Jan-2014 21:38
Trying to find pictures of the parade at thanksgiving in the Broadway fillmore area. I pretty sure it was sponsored by Sattlers. I lived on Stanton st. And they would deflate the floats at our corner gas station.
Tom G. 13-Dec-2013 18:43
Met my wife at Uncle Sams in the early 80's. 26 years latter and two kids we're still going strong!
kay ball 12-Nov-2013 00:52
Karl, I was raised in Immaculate Heart of Mary in the 50's. When I was at a reunion at St. Josephats I think in 70's someone had a book of their 60 year Jubilee. I remembered some of the kids in it and would like to get a hold of it and make some copies for myself and sisters. I have gotten a hold of a book for their 50th. If you are interested perhaps we could get together and share. Looking forward to hearing from you.
Guest 28-Oct-2013 13:44
Josker, I happened to come across your Attica photos. I'm assuming you're long retired by now. Nice photos, all too familiar to me. You wouldn't remember me but I was in Attica from shortly after the riot and into the Eighties; I was there twelve or fourteen years altogether. I was finally released after 41 years. Nobody left there from the earlier days, most of them dead now, guards as well as convicts. Hope you're well and enjoying life.
Tomasine Friel 09-Oct-2013 11:30
I remember the Hideaway quite well Stan an the Ravens were the best.Lulabells on Best St. Hermi was a Dentist went great memories this sight has....as a child I remember Sargents for there fish frys.what was the name of the bar on Vulcan St.in the early 60's..wjere was Rob Roys.
R Trask 23-Aug-2013 11:07
My grabdparents owned a little grocery on the corner of Benzinger and Lovejoy. The neighborhood people called it "The Italian Store" but the name on the front..If my memory is to be trusted... was "Tripis". The building was turned into the Iron Island Museum before the museuem moved to 998 Lovejoy - into a donated church/funeral parlor. If there are any pictures of the Lovejoy neighborhood before the store was sold, it would mean the world to me to see them. This was my Mother's family and I'm trying to do liniage research.
Shirley Foster 04-May-2013 00:09
Why is there a picture of School # 12 located at Ash and Sycamore Street. Helen K. Burns was the principal in the sixties.
Greg 30-Mar-2013 17:59
the 'one eye cat' was on bryant street near main
Alan Scibetta 03-Feb-2013 15:16
Hello, Anyone know where I can possibly obtain yearbook/class pictures for PS19, 64-66, PS60, 67-73, Riverside HS, 74-77? Feel free to email me. Thanks! Alan
asbuffalogirlalways 08-Aug-2012 05:32
Beautiful Buffalo made even better by your extremely well done gallery. Thank you for sharing. 2 hours of nostalgia.
sheila Duane 03-Aug-2012 21:04
Hi, I'm looking for information on the Church Charity Foundation Home in Buffalo (maybe on Front Avenue / Busti ???). Can you direct me to any resources?
S Osborne 15-Jul-2012 21:29
The pictures of the Buffalo Buildings and Crystal Beach are just wonderful. I enjoyed looking at them and remembering how it was back then. Thank you. A couple of people asked about Westminster Camp, Angola on the Lake, NY. I have some pictures and also can tell them the history of the camp and what happened to it. Anyone can contact me at sosborne166@aol.com, I will be more than happy to help them. Thanks again for those wonderful pictures.
Guest 11-Jul-2012 00:42
Mr. Josker-

I found you by looking for pictures of sing sing. After viewing the pictures I happened on the gallery featuring your wife. What a beautiful tribute! I pray that my marriage of 12 years, stays as fresh,loving and endearing 30 years from now. Isn't it great marrying your best friend.

Thanks for the inspiration
Turae
Chris, Dunedin New Zealand 10-Jul-2012 08:40
I just randomly came across your site through a link on Wikipedia. For some weird reason I felt the urge to look up Buffalo on Wikipedia and then felt intrigued by it. I am actually from Dunedin, New Zealand. I have no connection to USA, nor have I been there. Going through through the photos and captions of buildings in Buffalo made me think of how similar the city is, and what it has been through in terms of lost heritage. At the moment, Dunedin has a population of 120,000 but in terms of NZ that is relatively big. It used to be the most lively town in NZ and had a lot of money, so stately homes and buildings were built during a gold rush. It frustrates me that a lot of these buildings have left us, and just seemed to vanish overnight etc. like Buffalo. Thanks for giving me insight into a city most people in my part of the world wouldn't have even heard of. I will stop by sometime.
John27-Jun-2012 04:23
I'm Trying to find "Larry" who posted about Sattlers and photos in 2011 and was Visual Marketing Director from 1947 until it closed. He probably worked with my father, Patrick, who worked at "998" location, in same department,from 1959-1963.
It would be great if you could connect me to him. Pls. put Sattlers-Buffalo in subject line. Thanks,
John Murphy
jmartinmurphy@gmail.com
203.228.0580
Razz 17-May-2012 19:59
"I used to go to the Bona Vista in the 60's every weekend and there was a blues band with the lead guy playing harmonica. We would go just to see this band. They were great. Can't remember the name. Any idea?"

It was the Shaking Smith Blues Band.
frank garrett 14-Apr-2012 23:52
This is great man.

frankpgarrett@yahoo.com
ms ivy cecilia information 08-Apr-2012 17:03
such a wonderful site.... whrtr can i donate?
Peter Fosbery 02-Apr-2012 14:51
Pelee Island Lighthouse.
My grandfather was responsible for upkeep of all Canadian
lighthouses in the 1930's.
To maintain the Pelees Island lighthouse, it was necessary to do
so in late winter before ship traffic began. He would be met by horse
sleigh at the Leamington rail stop to offload his equipment. He and an assistant would then take everything by iceboat (Lake Erie was always frozen over) to
Pelee Island to do any maintenance.

Peter Fosbery - Toronto
Chris Morris 16-Mar-2012 20:39
Are you THE Karl Josker who used to live on Smith Street in the 50's and early 60's?
Who's asking? Chris (Gutowski) now Morris. From 120 Smith St. :o) Tucson, Arizona
Guest 16-Mar-2012 17:31
The bar on Dewey near Kensington in the 1960s was called the C Lounge
bill birdsong10-Mar-2012 20:10
"Temple of Gold," a book from the 1950s where the person couldn't "find the handle" to life....you have found it in the essay of life with your wife. It seemed so familiar, as with my 44 years with my wife. We have found the handle! Great pictures!
nick 10-Mar-2012 05:15
Looking for people who attended or taught at 24th street school during 1963 through 1970
Guest 09-Mar-2012 17:29
I used to go to the Bona Vista in the 60's every weekend and there was a blues band with the lead guy playing harmonica. We would go just to see this band. They were great. Can't remember the name. Any idea?
Christine 28-Feb-2012 15:45
Were you at IMH??? I was there from 1951=1958 you can reach me on Facebook Christine J. Gust...Thanks
Howard 26-Nov-2011 03:42
I am working on a book about a kidnapping. The kidnapper, Angelo LaMarca was executed in Sing Sing in August 1958.I would very much like to hear from any former guard who worked in the death at that time.
Annie G 26-Sep-2011 00:15
Hoping to have some response to my reseach re: Mc Van's. My grandfather, Joe Terrose, was the last owner. The Club closed in the late 1980's. Any photos or information would be helpful.

I am striving to have an historical marker placed at the site.
Joe Hesse 22-Jul-2011 17:40
Great Site!!!What ever happened to Aliotta's Bar on Hertel Ave in Buffalo? We used to play there in the 60's and early 70's.
Joe Hesse 22-Jul-2011 17:38
I love this site. I grew up in Buffalo NY and played as a musician in some of these bars. What ever happened to Aliotta's Bar on Hertel Ave. We used to play there in the 60's and early 70's. I don't see any pictures and can't find anything on the internet on the club. Would love to hear form you about Aliotta's if you have any information.
Thank You!!

Best,
-Joe Hesse
joehesse@earthlink.net
BERNIE SHOKOFF 22-Jul-2011 16:08
Hi; I have a " DEC. 1950s " menu from LAUBES-OLD SPAIN RESTAURENT, from Buffalo N.Y., iS IT STILL IN BUSINESS--and if it still open could I use my 1950 menu prices today ---Ha Ha ----We used to drive on weekends in the 50s from Hamilton,ontario to Buffalo and always had dinner at LAUBES ---[ long time ago ]
---------------------------
bernie--Thunder Bay, Ontario
effildIncitle 11-Jun-2011 12:30
Very informative post. Thanks for taking the time to share your view with us.
R Baiocco 06-Jun-2011 13:02
Karl,

Very interested in buying a bunch of your photos. How would I go about doing that?

R
A. MAUNDERS 10-Feb-2011 02:37
KARL... FIRST,I DONT KNOW YOU.
HOWEVER YOUR PHOTOS AND CAPTIONS COMMUNICATE A BEAUTIFULL RELATIONSHIP WITH A STUNNIG WIFE. THE SPAN OF YEARS IN IMAGES IS WONDERFUL TO SEE AND YOUR WORDS HONER YOUR WIFE ,WE NEED TO HONER THOSE WHO HAVE STOOD BY US AND SHARED OUR JOURNEY AND YOU MOST CERTAINLY DO. IT IS A BIT ODD HOW CAPTIVATING I FOUND THESE IMAGES,THANK YOU FOR REVEALING A SMALL PART OF YOUR LIFE.
Sally 02-Feb-2011 19:55
I"m searching for a photo of the building (in it's original day) located @ 496 Main St in Buffalo NY, formerly Beck's Shoe Store, can anyone assist us?
Margaret Rose 26-Jan-2011 18:18
Hi, I came across this site when I was searching for information about an ancestor who emigr@ated from Scotland to Canada then to Buffalo in the early 1900's. Julia (Grant) McMillan and her husband John Jack McMillan show up on the census and city directories up to the late 1950's. In 1940 John is described as 'head waiter' at the Chez Ami. If anyone out there knows anything about this family who lived on Michigan Avenue I would really love to hear from you. regards Margaret McKenzie Rose
mike newman 17-Jan-2011 14:13
beautiful pictures
Shirley Short 12-Jan-2011 19:59
Hello to you, My thougts of your gift...WOW! you are so consistant. I wish Ghost Hunters could have seen the collection of you pic's of the Terminal....before they looked for Ghosts....it would have made a difference in there findings. Keep on keeping on. Shirley Short BIG FANNNNNNNN
LURCH BROWN 24-Oct-2010 20:09
Hey. Allentown! The Allentown Cafe. Birdies. Towne Red Hots.
Bobby Hens, Jay Benson, CHARLIE BROWN. Sparky, Bullwinkle, Kevin Macguire. Narf.

The Belle Star. (This Place Cooks)
Angola on The Lake...The Outside Inn. (lost my mind at The Outside Inn)
Nuthin but The Blues at The Bona Vista.
The Masthead. Binky Browns. The Beef and Ale. The Hotel California.

Crystal Beach...
All the best to everybody. Lurch.

Gordin 16-Oct-2010 22:10
Nice! g.zola@yahoo.com
Muff Diver 29-Sep-2010 00:10
Neat site! Keep it up!
Shirley McBee 22-Sep-2010 02:43
This site is wonderful. I was born and raised in Bflo. but raised my family in Varysburg, NY. Now I live in Livingston, TX but visit every Bflo. summer. I spent a lot of time at Crystal Beach and feel bad about the Canadiana. My boyfriend and danced all the way to the beach. Thankyou for the site. I've been on it all night.
john 09-Sep-2010 20:25
Karl
hi. it's your cousin john speaking. haven't seen you in many years. hope things are well.
anyway it's strange, but the link to your photos was sent to me by a friend. great posting and nice layout! GOD bless you!!! hope to see you soon.

john suffoletta jr.
Paul 02-Jul-2010 16:15
Karl Great job!1 It seems to be just the tip of the iceberg. Leaving me Thirsty for more in the bar shots. Did somebody say shots??? What about the great Irish pub on Forest and Niagara Street, or Checkers on Hertel Ave. and Annocone's on Bailey Ave. just to name a few. But really, nice job, I feel thirsty.
joe 09-Jun-2010 21:08
hello every one....great site. buffalo is a great city. we recently purchased the unity / showplace theatre on grant st near military ave in buffalo. its a historic venue. does anyone have any pix or info or memorbilia from the unity movie theatre? please let me know. email me @ joeb308@juno.com thanks again
cindy5726-May-2010 18:26
This was a wonderful trip down memory lane!!! Buffalo had the best people, best bars and restaurants , the best music and the most fun a young girl or guy could have growing up!!!! the best part was you could go out on any night of the week with nothing planned and have the best time of your life, or meet the man(or woman), of your life, or just create a great memory!!! For us, it was the random Monday night at Mulligans Brick, when Me , my brother and and our older brother all showed up (each with our own group of friends), at separate times during the night, each of wearing our "Chippawa" T-shirts but none of us knowing the other would be there or what we'd be wearing. It was the most fun night of our lives!!!! Family, friends and a great pub to celebrate in!! what more could ask for!!? And we all paid tribute to our Uncle who is on the wall at the base of the "Mulligans family Tree picture!! WE have all since moved on and away from buffalo but all left our mark there! LONG LIVE THE MERRILL'S!!!!!
cindy5726-May-2010 18:12
Hey- this site brought back great memories of great times!!!! The people and nightlife was the best and it will live on in all of of our collective memories forever-even if a lot of us grew up, sobered up, or moved away...Buffalo will always be in our hearts and minds!!! My BEST memory was at Mulligans Brick on a random Monday night-(thats what made Buffalo Bar's soooo great)a nothing night turned into greatness...I went out with my best girlfriends,(wearing my "Chippawa" T-shirt and jeans), and My brother and his friends showed up(wearing his Chippawa shirt), and we had a great time!!! Around mid night(when he got off work at the steel plant), My older brother showed up (in his Chippawa shirt) with his buddies! None of this was planned- it just happened!!! but we had the best time as a family and with all of our friends around us and I will NEVER forget that night! we all took separate paths in life and moved away form Buffalo, as did our friends that were with us that night. But it will be forever in our hearts!! Thats what being from Buffalo is all about !!
Sharon G. 26-May-2010 11:52
Great work Karl.......thanks for capturing all the old memories
Tara mgbada 07-Apr-2010 11:57
I LOVE THIS SITE FOR JOBS..
dave 05-Apr-2010 09:24
A treasure chest of photos,brings bach memories.
Patty 04-Apr-2010 17:15
The pictures took me back to my childhood - over 50 years ago. I was surprised that I could pick-out our local police station and fire station after all these years. So many memories. Thank you for these wonderful pictures. They are treasures.
Edwin Coolidge 04-Apr-2010 16:52
awesome753@gmail.com
Very nice!
Ann 31-Mar-2010 05:58
Ann
So many memories. The streets, the bars, the churches, Crystal Beach! Loved your photos. Do you sell copies?
Sue 20-Feb-2010 03:28
Does anyone know JOHN OPATKIEWICZ he was a great drummer...I think he lived in West Seneca, or Orchard Park New York...
m.newman 29-Jan-2010 01:16
love the website.but how about the kaisertown area of buffalo.at one time there was a bar or a bakery on just about every corner.my family all grew up here.
caseys on hertel girl 28-Jan-2010 21:54
Not good at computers - my previous comment can be added if you want.
Guest 28-Jan-2010 21:51
The amusement parks in Tonawanda were Fun and Games (circa 1970's on Colvin) and Wheelings (circa 1950- early 1960's on Niagara Falls Blvd. across from Ellicott Creek Park. Sure do wish I knew what happened to all my friends from Casey's on Hertel (definitely not Elmwood - a far different crowd) and Mulligans Brick Bar (on Allen - again, a fair different crowd from Hertel - no disco generation for this girl) circa 1971- 1975. For those who have asked, I have many pictures from both bars. Butchy Casey died several years ago, the Kell brothers no longer own Mulligans Brick Bar. Those were the best days of my life - sure would like to find out how my bar patron brothers and sisters lives turned out - I knew so many of you and would like to know how your lives turned out. We should have a Casey's 1971-1973 reunion at Brighton Field Days in Summer 2010 - It would be great to see all your Harley's pull out one after the other and head to Casey's (if it were still there)! Anyone interested?
papa speedbird 26-Dec-2009 18:37
Good site!
arild@skaatun.com
Carlos 10-Dec-2009 11:16
Thanks for the great content! Carlos (carlos@tbdtech.info)
Billy Sheehan 27-Nov-2009 16:17
Excellent!! What incredible memories--thanks so much for posting all this.
Yours,
Billy Sheehan
Peter McAnthony 24-Nov-2009 03:43
Very nice site! Excellent pictures.
pmcantony@gmail.com
Kevin M 12-Nov-2009 02:53
Mr. Josker,
I too, moved from Buffalo over thirty years ago. Even though we visit once or twice a year, your photos bring back many memories.
Your work is excellent. Thanks for sharing.
Kevin
Guest 26-Oct-2009 03:55
Your site is "outa site"! Thank you for posting all these photos!
Guest 19-Jul-2009 17:56
Hey Karl,
You are definitely a man of many talents. Were these photos taken "on lost time" or the state's dime??
Just testing to see if your sense of humor is intact.
I particularly enjoyed the photos of ACF aka ASP.
Ann
Marge Heisler 27-Jun-2009 17:10
How can I get a poster The Doorways of Buffalo.
Angel6rs@webtv.net 27-Jun-2009 17:08
How can I get a poster of the Doorways of Buffalo?
Guest 17-Jun-2009 19:44
I remember Haas bakery...across from St. Francis school and church. I used to love their cold pizza.
Guest 20-May-2009 22:38
I was at Immaculate Heart 61-62. How can I get some of these pics. Downloaded.
Dennis K 13-May-2009 17:55
Man Buffalo was a great town to be from..The people were great back then.
CYNTHIA DEERING 05-May-2009 02:26
MR.JOSKER,THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME REMEMBER THE BEAUTY OF BUFFALO.I HAVE NOT SEEN BUFFALO SINCE 1977,YET I RECONIZED SO MUCH IN YOUR PHOTOS.I WAS ALSO A CHILD AT IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY CHILDRENS HOME,I GOT CHILLS WHEN I FOUND THOSE PHOTOS.THANK YOU,SIR.CYNTHIA DEERING/cynthia.deering@yahoo.com---PLEASE FEEL FREE TO E-MAIL ME.BY THE WAY I AM TRYING TO CONTACT ROBIN McGEE,I REMEMBER HER FROM THE HOME.IF YOU KNOW HOW I CAN CONTACT HER.
Carl Partridge 02-May-2009 14:27
PS forgot to add my e-mail address
Guest 02-May-2009 14:26
Karl , Why is there no picture of Buffalo PS #61 on Leroy Avenue in your gallery? Carl Partridge class of #47
Mrs T F 09-Apr-2009 13:08
Thankyou for sharing,, I remember many of those places me and my late husband went to.
rose 03-Apr-2009 07:23
wonderful site
Guest 06-Mar-2009 00:04
I remember hearing about David Bunis. I believe he was my mother's boss back in those days.
Les M 03-Mar-2009 05:11
Your photo-essay of the churches of Buffalo was most moving. The comments you added touched me deeply, magnifying the sense of loss that stems from closing churches.
Kathy Hopper Woods 01-Mar-2009 23:10
What a wondrous trip back in time to see your photographs of Crystal Beach! I was born and raised in Bflo; my family moved to New England in the mid-70s. I was reading your email threads below and a "Guest" inquired about the Sample Shop on Hertel Ave (9/8/08). The Bunis Family owned the department store (my family had Sattler's 998 Broadway) and both families were well connected. There is one scion of the Bunis Family still living in Buffalo (David Bunis) if you want to contact him for information.
Guest 13-Feb-2009 00:53
Great site! I'd love to see if you could find some pics of old bakeries in buffalo. Fondly remember Haas' bakery on, hmmm...it was on Ogden near Lovejoy...
Brian Schneider 02-Feb-2009 01:52
I grew up in the old first ward(Mackinaw). The elevators the ships the city, oh nostalgia. We hung out in sam McCarthy's bar as kids gene would kick us out
Tara 29-Dec-2008 14:54
Thank you for sharing your passion. I stumbled upon the movie theater gallery and then on to your lovely homage to your wife...

This site is so inspiring and I look forward to exploring it and being responsive to my out creativity. Thank you again.
Karen 26-Dec-2008 00:27
Hi Karl....Teresa stumbled on your wonderful website. We looked at all your photos. They definitely brought back some memories. Jennifer..really nice pics of you. Teresa says, Cut that hair! Try something new! LOL! We would like to wish you all a Merry Christmas! Keep taking those wonderful photos! Love to you,
Karen and Teresa! :)
gconace 21-Dec-2008 20:46
Hello ...xcellent website and historical taverns....I have been searching for a family who ran a tavern/hofbrau back in 1960 and name of the place....met their two daughters in D.C....appreciate any info about them.one daughter named Adele.....thanks
tara 16-Dec-2008 17:09
Hi.DO you have any photos of dealings amusement park that used to be in tonawanda?i remember going there as a little girl in the 1970's.do you remember this place?
Richard 03-Dec-2008 07:35
Thanks for bringing back the memories of Crystal Beach and the Comet. I was getting shivers just thinking back to standing in line waiting for my turn to... die.
Sunflower 30-Nov-2008 18:07
My Father was the inmate barber in the death house for 5 years, I have nearly completed a book about his most nusual life.
tyrone 21-Nov-2008 00:55
Do you have the history or photos of the Revelot?
chelsea 09-Oct-2008 03:22
i was just at Attica prison on a school trip. we had the chance to interview 2 inmates, it was a great experience and they had said life was hard there but they knew they deserved every punishment they got. the security there is crazy but good. even having a penny in ur pocket will set the metal detector off...
Guest 27-Sep-2008 03:15
i would possibly buy it if it is an actual lighthouse in asian
Guest 27-Sep-2008 03:12
is it really a lighthouse
Bev 20-Sep-2008 20:10
What great memories. I worked in downtown Buffalo and visited so many of these places. I live in Florida now and it is great to see all the old places a blast from the past. Thanks for all your work posted and photoshots...Great Job!!
Frances Kelm 16-Sep-2008 05:25
Excellent Memories and knowlegeable information. I lived for many years in the Immaculate Heart of Mary's Home. You wouldn't have any pictures inside the church. Fran from Buffalo NY
Guest 08-Sep-2008 23:16
Do you have any phtotos of the old Sample Shop on Hertel? That place is a landmark now. My mother worked there in the late 60's, early 70's.
Jack 22-Aug-2008 23:22
I would like to delete the Karl R. Josker Gallery!!
MARYLOU 18-Aug-2008 23:00
O MY I CAN REMEMBER MY MOM AND DAD TAKING ME THERE IN THE 60'S. WHAT THOUGHTFUL MEMORIES YOUR SITE BROUGHT BACK TO ME. THANK YOU SO MUCH. MARYLOU FROM BUFFALO NY. THE OLD FIRST WARD
Christina 16-Aug-2008 03:42
Very nice site, excellent work!
Louise 28-Jul-2008 03:58
Louise I too grew up in Bflo. Miss it. I remember St. Patricks School and Church, Seneca Theather and the Candy Kitchen down the street. Bailo's for the beef on wick, Ted Hots. I remember every yr. going to Crystal Beach on the boat. What a joy. Too bad it is all gone. Just so many memories. Thank you for the roll down memory lane.
beejay195005-Jul-2008 16:15
Hi, I just spent my morning looking at your photos. Did you ever update pics of your wife for 2007 and 2008? I hope that this email finds you both well and still in romance. What a wonderful love story.
Jacques Lecontes 28-Jun-2008 23:31
Wow, nice site, it's clear you put a lot of effort on it.
sharon tefft 22-May-2008 12:33
Hi, just wanted to say what an amazing site. I was born and raised on the east side of buffalo, I attended genessee humboldt junior high school in 1966 and 67 then went to south park high school and graduated in 1972. I wish you had some old pictures of the windows in downtown buffalo at christmas. Every year at christmas we would take the bus down genessee street and walk past all the department store windows.I miss those good old days. thanks sharon
ben 12-May-2008 19:30
shocking_altogether@hotmail.com
Good site, keep up the good work!
Henry Chianski 07-May-2008 00:22
Great site!
Daniel X. Wargula 03-May-2008 01:29
Hey Karl, When are we going to see an image of you?????
D
A
N
Daniel X. Wargula 30-Apr-2008 20:22
Hi Karl, After looking at thousands of your lovely images for the last month, where is one of you????? I am dying to see what you look like???? Are you camera shy??????

Please display one. Daniel X. Wargula, dxwargula@bellsouth.net
Guest 30-Apr-2008 19:27
Hi Karl,I started viewing your web site about a month ago and see that you have an artistic eye and a very human touch in describing the images of your wife Jennifer, whom you obviously love deeply.
Being born on Buffalo's east side (Polonia) and worked in my father's camera store on Broadway, married in 1969 like y'all, moved to Atlanta in 1970 and headed offices for Minolta and Canon, been into photography since birth, I am thoroughly enjoying your life's work of images on Buffalo past and library.
It has given me a fantastic trip down memory lane. Thank you for providing such a terrific bank of memories! Sincerely, Daniel X. Wargula, Atlanta, Georgia. dxwargula@bellsouth.net
Jerry Swartz 28-Apr-2008 01:10
In 1949 I was a counter boy at Jacobson's deli although I had been coming to the beach with my parents from the mid 30's. I loved going over to the ballroom and listening to Maynard Ferguson and his big band. Little did I know at the age of 19 I would have several occasions as a talent and booking agent, many years later to book Maynard's band for Florida engagements. So many fond memories as I now celebrate my 78th birthday. Several years ago I was booking Roberts Bros. Circus and lo and behold the wife was a daughter of the Halls and sold "taffy" etc inside of one of the entrances on the right hand side. Such a very small world, and so many fond and loving memories.
Lori M. 27-Apr-2008 13:19
Interesting galleries.
Jim Kopaczewski 13-Apr-2008 13:27
This is a wonderful web page and presents great memories of Buffalo and the great days.
I left Buffalo to work for Eastman Kodak in 1967 but so miss the old friends and the great restaurants. Keep up the work and I look forward to meeting some old friends.
Keith E. 05-Apr-2008 14:57
Thank you for the pictures. Do you have anything more on Hasselbeck Cheese? William Neureuter is/was my great grandfather. He was partners with Martin Hasselbeck. My family is still living off of the proceeds from the sale to Bordens.
Joseph Z 22-Mar-2008 20:08
Thank you for the pictures, really lovely. I attended PS 44 and before I went to PS 58 which I believe was built in 1865 (such a cool old building with history in every square foot) which was brownstone. The interior had Oak bannisters and floors, radiators that hissed and steamed in the winter, and in second grade Miss MacKenzie promised us (we being 4th graders) that the giant Christmas cactus on the Oak plant stand would bloom just before Christmas vacation, and it did! I fell in love with my first grade teacher, Miss Grossman what beautiful memories. Does anyone have any pictures of PS 58?
M.Breier 13-Mar-2008 18:35
great pictures of the BFD Firehousers
Guest 20-Feb-2008 18:17
Helene - I too lived in the North Park area and went to PS 66. I love this site, it brings back such good memories!
Sue 19-Feb-2008 16:57
Love the pictures of Crystal Beach. Do you have any pictures of the Mouse Trap? Right before CB closed my Dad and I went on the Comet for one last ride. We sat in the seats they had facing backwards, it was the coolest thing ever!!
Helene 19-Feb-2008 04:01
What a terrtific website! Such great memories of growing up in the North Park section and attending P.S. 66 and Bennett High School. The section on Crystal Beach was super. Whenever I break away from S. Texas and come up that way, I try to seew Crystal Beach. It may be in another country but it was all a part of grwoing up in Buffalo.
Guest 12-Feb-2008 23:57
I found my way to your page by fortunate accident.
Your photos are wonderful.
Alice Garnhanm 12-Feb-2008 22:16
Very interesting; I attended P.S. 56; P.S.42; Lakeshore Central; Buffalo East High School.
Fran 10-Feb-2008 20:59
Just found this page, At my old age I am just learning about computers. Crystal Beach was a place Mom took us on special days when she could afford it. While Daddy was working she would cook pork chops for us to eat at the park. Too expensive to buy for
five. She would take ripe tomatoes and buy coffee and pop for us kids. The catapiller and the train was our speed, no comet...it scared me. Watching people dancing in the ballroom had a particular interest for me. I loved dancing and music. Our only real treat was the wonderful waffles, like you can now get at the Fair from Tony;s. The boat ride was so wonderful. I'm glad I have these memories.
Brandon The Troll 08-Feb-2008 03:19
Thanks for sharing your photos!!
Catherine Szekeres 01-Feb-2008 06:07
O Boy, the memory of Crystal Beach, means so much to me. I at 13 in 1976 went to the park for the last time, because my dads job transfered us to Omaha Nebraska. Was going to the park since I was 5. the crystal beach waffles the suckers the french fries. I havent ate anything I like better than that food. the penny gallary the comet the yellow rollercoaster, fun house etc, etc, all comes back to me. those where the best times of my life. I am still not over having to leave the buffalo area even at 45 I could close my eyes, and picture walking into the park, and feeling so excited. we only got to go once a year, my dad worked or helped a friend work at a cory near cyrstal beach. so he went there and dropped us kids from the neighborhood off and pick us up 8 hrs later.. wow what a long day,but when that young you never tired,,till you get in the car, and you fall asleep on your friends shoulder as they did to me. thanks for absolute peace of this memory...cat Szeek
Florence B. 19-Jan-2008 03:55
Karl, Your photography is beautiful journalism! And, how did I know that this old friend of mine was so talented? I wouldn't have known it if I didn't stumble upon this site. You are way too modest. I'll be searching for more.
Guest 18-Jan-2008 14:42
Dear Karl - I love your website and commentary very rich- Just an FYI - I used to play in the abandoned Wildroot factory as a child growing up on the East Side. I lived in Miami for a year last year and discovered that Wildroot Co. is now there.Thanks again
chris 14-Jan-2008 23:49
JUST FOUND YOUR WEBSITE. MY DAD DANIEL SHALTENS WAS FIRST MATE ON THE AQUARAMA FROM 57 TILL ITS DEMISE I WAS FIVE YEARS OLD WHEN HE TOOK THE JOB. I STILL HAVE AUTOGRAPHED PICTURES OF THE PUPPETS FROM THE THEATRE FOR KIDS. WE MOVED TO FLORIDA IN 59 AND I NEVER SAW THE AQUARAMA AGAIN UNTIL I CAME ACROSS YOUR PHOTO GALLERY. I AM SO GLAD I HAVE SO MANY MEMORIES OF HER BEAUTY AND GRACE. (OR NOT!!)
ANGE- S 09-Jan-2008 16:40
THE CANADIANA. WHERE ELSE COULD A KID BUY A ROUND TRIP RIDE FROM BUFFALO TO C.B. AND BACK FOR .50 CENTS. THE BEACH WAS FREE AND THE RIDES WERE AFORDABLE. WE HAD OUR ANNUAL FAMILY PICNIC THERE. WE WOULD LOAD UP MY UNCLES CAR- (SIX KIDS AND FOUR ADULTS ) PLUS FOOD AND BEVERAGES. THE COPS OR CUSTOMS PEOPLE ON THE PEACE BRIDGE NEVER QUESTIONED OUR OVERLOAD.THIS PLACE WAS "OUR MAGIC KINGDOM" THE BUMPER CARS WERE MY FAVORITE RIDE. FRENCH FRIES WITH VINEGAR WERE THE BEST AND THOSE ALL DAY SUCKERS TO DIE FOR.
Suzanne Hoskins White 08-Jan-2008 11:36
Does anyone remember collecting Crystal Beach coupons from the Bflo Evening News (or was it the Courrier Express?)? We would knock on neighbors' doors and ask then for their coupon. Most were nice about it. Some were not. But we would trot home with enough coupons to provide us with rides and other goodies at the park. It was a good way to help the parents who didn't have lots of money to amuse several of their kids all day that the park. My mom took us a picnic which we ate at tables in the park not too far from Kiddieland - the park beside the Giant Coaster and we would get to buy suckers after lunch. My favorites were lemon and peanut. Some kids liked cinammon,but back then they were a mite strong for me. The Canadian ice cream (Borden's?) came in folded paper and tasted far better than our ice cream at home. And those french fries with vinegar! Can't somebody re-invent all that food and start a "Crystal Beach Food Emporium" for us oldies?
dancingapril 05-Jan-2008 10:33
I grew up spending summers at Crystal Beach... Both before and after the COMET... (I rode forward and backward). My grandmother Eleanor Schwerer rode the Canadiana and the Americana. (She married James "Red" Miller, then John Cascio) My mom continued to take me to Bay Beach, the best beach, where she and her friends took "vacations". Those Bay Beach cottages provided my best memories. In 2003, my mom bought a cottage in Ridgeway. The neighborhood made our best memories (family and FRIEND). But, the rental codes have not been kind to Mom.... I will soon take over rentals, if you are interested, email me at: SAprilColleen@aol.com
Jill Newton-Jackowski 23-Dec-2007 22:23
what a great job,of putting this together,, and the memories..wow..
this is the best site with pictures and comments ,,that I have seen in a long time
thanks for putting it together..
Gomer Lesch 16-Dec-2007 04:34
I was an announcer at WEBR in late 1942 - early 1943, and again 1946-1949 after service in WWII. The picture of Broadcast House was nostalgic -- but it was red brick in the 40s. I remember a drug store next door to Broadcast House -- and I used to eat at Woodworth Diner on Main Street a block or so away; had great hot dogs at Howard Johnson's on Elmwood, and lasagna at Frank and Teresa's long before Buffalo Wings were household words (and dish) across the nation. At EBR, Cy King was station manager, and did a daily newscast at around 6 p.m. He was memorable for shuffling his feet under the desk as he read the news. Many more recollections, but this will do for now.
Guest 06-Dec-2007 15:36
Hi Karl,
I got here looking for inmates mugshot for a documentary serie (you know the Googling way, typing Sing sing ...) and here I am, looking at your great tribute to Jennifer, Sienna and all.
That was a wonderful break in my working afternoon, ending up very far from what I'm looking for but it was worth it.
Kind regrds from France,

Francine
Jim Chiavetta 19-Nov-2007 15:48
Karl,

You don't know me but we have a lot in common. I tryly enjoyed the tribute to your wife Jennifer and I have just decided to do one for my wife Kathy. What we have in common...Kathy and I were 19 in 1969 (same age), marrie in Buffalo in 1971, she worked to pay for my education, we dated since 1967, I was at the Attica prison riot as a National Guardsman during the shotout day for 12 hours, we vacationed at Ocean City in some of the same years you did. We are happily married 36 years and looking forward to grandchildren now. I went to Cardinal Dougherty HS and I just attended my 40th reunuion, so the memories are right on my mind. Cyrystal Beach pictures made it seem like yesterday.

James N. Chiavetta
CEO

TabSafe Medical Services Inc.
1050 Northfield Court Suite 100
Roswell, Georgia 30076-3827

t. 678.990.8450
f. 678.990.8456
jchiavetta@tabsafe.com
Patsy Kell 08-Nov-2007 19:13
I just received an e-mail with pictures of Crystal Beach and I am happy to be reminded how great it was to go there as a child. I lived in Dante Place in the 1950's and saw that boat every day. I remember the boat ride there when we could take a picnic basket and leave it in the grove and come back hours later and it was still there untouched. boy those were the days... thank you for the pictures you did great job.
Ian Chapman 25-Oct-2007 02:53
Karl, I've veiwed your fender badge site many times - yes the young kids have it all, but what they don't have is memories, this only comes with age. In Australia I drive a 1969 Plymouth Fury, small block V8. I get looks, people waving and ladies over 80 stopping me in the steet to talk of big cars and old days. Must say though, my sons drive the car, their mates and them love the sound of a cast iron block Chrysler bellowing out the twin exhaust!
Cheers and thanks from OZ!
Noreen 23-Oct-2007 17:20
Yes, the good old days! As kids we never realized how good we had it. I remember taking the bus from Broadway & Fillmore to Crystal Beach. I also remember ice skating at Humboldt Park and going to PALS. I went to School #24 and now the school that housed the older grades is demolished and a senior housing went up. I remember Broadway Market, Neisners, Sattlers, the Holiday Parades on Broadway etc. It makes me sad to think my children will never get to experience this. Thanks for the pics!!!
Joanne Unsworth 22-Oct-2007 15:15
Gosh Buffalo
I left 39 years ago. These pictures brought back so many good memories of my childhood. I moved all over the world following my husband's career in the Military. I live in Alaska now, but these pictures made me homesick for my roots & Buffalo. Growing up in Buffalo was the best!!!
Peggy Tyrakowski 21-Oct-2007 19:03
Karl, kudos from your "old" neighbor. Kosh just forwarded these to me......they are all awesome !!!!! Keep up the great work, it allows us misplaced Buffalonians to remember all the old days.................thank you very much.
Janet 14-Oct-2007 04:00
Your photos are fantastic. You should be selling Buffalo area and crystal beach prints at the local art shows.
Rose Barczak 13-Oct-2007 21:04
I haven't looked at your sight for a while. It brings back great memories. Moved to Rochester in '63 now in Atlanta, GA. Nothing cancompare with the night life I experienced way back when. So many choices, so, little time. Absolutely love your site.
Will visit often!
Guest 20-Jun-2007 08:21
Wow, that is great. I'm at a loss of words.
Guest 07-May-2007 06:15
I truly enjoy your photos. PLEASE keep taking pics and posting them here. They are incredible. I even love the "Out of Place" photos!

I grew up in Bflo. Been away for 20+ years. Can you take more photos of the East Side and the Cold Spring areas... also Black Rock area? I'd like to see the big stone building on Best & Herman(used to be a girls reformatory), the orphanage on William Street, is the building where Kulick's Market was still standing? Iriquois Brewery, the rest of the schools, Pine Grill on Jefferson, Willert Park(used to be a pool there which served as a skating rink in the winter), the old Sears on Main&Jefferson.
Your work is still ahead of you... LOL!!!

And by the way, you really need to be considered for a Pulitzer!
Guest 08-Mar-2007 12:11
Stunning work.
Bernice Woodall 04-Nov-2006 16:05
Great site - thatnks for all the hard work.
Shanda Leer 15-Sep-2006 03:41
great site, keep up the good work.
Stanford Ray 06-Sep-2006 18:54
My Name is S. Ray. Iwent to PS# 1 on Busti Avenue, then Hutch Tech. I left buffalo in 72 right after my 9th grade year. I know that school 1 was demolished years ago. i am looking to find some of my old 7th and 8th grade teachers. (Ms Piel, Ms Wright[maiden name Br0wn]), Mr Soconi, Mr Manichefski(not spelled correctly) I would like to tell them thank you. Some of my best school experiences were at that school, with those teachers. If anyone has any idea about how I can wright or call any of them, please let me know.
bob jones 31-Aug-2006 18:29
amazing site kl photos
screecher 20-Aug-2006 23:04
Touched beyond words at your galleries. I moved from Chicago to Buffalo 3 years ago, and have fallen in love with its many historical treasures. Your photos have given me so many more places to go and explore. Thank you.
Prof 15-Aug-2006 16:26
Loved the site
Guest 14-Aug-2006 17:56
A beautiful woman cars buildings and locks what more could a man want. Great
R Verton 05-Aug-2006 08:19
I wonder why my frist entry didn't show up? but anyway i just want to say great site. rinleichverton@yahoo.com
R Verton 05-Aug-2006 08:17
Heeeey, not bad, not bad at all! As tthe fonz says, AAAAAAAAYYYYYYYY!
good work
Stephen Y, In St. Louis 27-Jul-2006 16:45
I was taken by how you presented your wife. Makes me apreachate mine all the more. It was wonderfull!--Thank you.
Gary Sparkle 09-Jul-2006 14:22
Good work on the site!
Guest 19-Jun-2006 12:26
greate work!
jdcppd@yahoo.com 17-Jun-2006 12:34
Félicitations pour votre travail!
STAN WALKER 10-Jun-2006 04:43
I SPENT THE BEST YEARS OF MY LIFE IN THE BAILEY /KEN SECTION OF BUFFALO IT ALL STARTED IN THE 1940 AND IT WAS THEN THE BEST I'M HAPPY THAT I LIVED IN BUFFALO THEN ALL THE CITY WAS ONE HAPPY GROUP WITH EACH SECTION A DIFFERNT ETHNIC GROUP THAT WE ALL COULD ENJOY WE LIVED AND LOVED TOGETHER AND THE SCHOOLS WERE THE BEST AND THE FOOD WAS THE GREATEST .STAN
Ruth 06-Jun-2006 04:46
I just found out today that my gr-grandmother was buried from this church in 1921. From where I see that they lived I believed they could have been regular members of the parish. I'd love to visit the church someday, so if you see a stranger sitting in the pews, it'll probably be me. A note of interest, my gr-grandparents surname was Karl.
JUDITH JUDELSOHN 01-Jun-2006 11:53
THE PARK LANE APARTMENTS ( CONDOMINIUM)AT 33 GATES CIRCLE IS AN IMPORTANT PART OF BUFFALO'S ARCHITECTUAL HERITAGE. IT IS A CLASSIC NOT TO BE MISSED! IT TOWERS ABOVE THE LANDMARK GATES CIRCLE FOUNTAIN AND HAS BEEN HOME TO MANY NOTE WORTHY BUFFALOIANS.
jim,dundee 16-May-2006 13:24
great infomative website
laura heckle 13-May-2006 14:43
i think its great the way you let me inside the walls of attica prison my fiance is doing time there and i havent yet visisted but i am going this week end you gave me a knowing of what to expect and i thank you for that
Terry Hickson 11-May-2006 18:26
Anyone know where Biffalo is?
carol 03-Apr-2006 20:29
Booby's on ontario street was a great bar to party everyone took care of each other
sam hejza 31-Mar-2006 19:45
Hello Buffalo! I was born and raised on the westside of Buffalo, N.Y. on Busti Ave. I went to school #1 and even had the same teachers my mom had(Ms.McCarthy,Ms Dunn,Ms. farley, and I also remember having the greatest time of my life, My friends,The Carlucci's the Frisacaro's,the Vallones,,In fact I ran into Rose and Linda vallone In las vegas after 30yrs!!! Anyway I now live in Huntington Harbour,Ca and have worked at McDonnell Douglas/boeing,,I Now work for my friends who created 'Airborne' and just got back from Sundance Film Festival. Also, I just spoke to Rosa Kendricks, we go back to 2nd grd, she also lives in Ca. so will be doing lunch soon. My grandma Frances Amato lived across the st.(who is doing the malookii on everyone now) And my favorite person in the whole world Mrs Galluzzo who we just drove crazy playing in front of her store!! I miss everyone.......Sam Hejza email samhejza@socal.rr.com
Rosemarie 31-Mar-2006 14:33
my father was in Attica in the late 1950's to 1962 or 1963. I have no idea why, my mother left him when she was pregnant with me. Is there any way I can locate the reason? He passed away in 1988. I met him when I was 19 years old.
Guest 08-Mar-2006 22:06
Very nice photos.
Dick Pawlak 05-Mar-2006 04:30
Karl:

What a wonderful collection of photos that you have on your site!!
Do you remember, or perhaps have a photograph of Notarpoles Tavern?
It was at 104 Broadway,in the same block as the Istambul Casino,
almost across the street from the Colored Musicians Club.
Bob Notarpole was the bartender, although it was actually
ownwd by Mike Notarpole, who I beleive was a former Buffalo
motorcycle cop.
How about photos of the Century?
I was the chief usher there while I was attending high school.
Having held this position for three years ('55,'56 and '57),
I have many fond memories of downtown Buffalo just as it began its'
decline.
The shows, stores, bars and downtown life in general were still
thriving.
Whoed uh thunk Main Street would turn in to the present "ghost
town" that it is today?
Sure looks pretty except for the lack of people!
Nicky Lenox 01-Mar-2006 23:20
Woah, this is an awesome site!
Derek Sherman 26-Feb-2006 07:43
Thanks for the awesome site. Please update via dereksherman@gmail.com
Steve Piche 14-Feb-2006 03:05
Was surfing the web for anything muscle-car, and found your badge site... oh, the memories. I'm 56, grew up in So.Calif. and like you am still absolutely fanatical about muscle cars. I owned a 69 Camaro SS 396/375hp, a 70 Chevelle SS 454, a 71 Cuda 440, and my favorite was a 59 Vette we dropped a 427 into. I soooo regret selling each and every one of them (not just because they're worth a mint now) but because each one had its own "personality" that I grew to love.
I've now got a 2006 Mustang GT with a Vortech supercharger, and it has that muscle-car V8 sound we get goosebumps over. I absolutely can't stand the Import "fart-cans" everyone has today, and even tho they may be fast, it just ain't the same. The kids just don't know what they're missing. I gave my daughters friend a ride in my Stang and totally blew him away with the torque and sound... he now wants an old muscle car! We've got to pass the torch to some of the younger crowd and keep them alive...
Guest 18-Jan-2006 13:53
I was born in here in Buffalo in 1959 and lived here all my life. And i always have a yerning to leave. But i realize what keeps me here is my friends and some family. I agree that the people here are the best. but unfortunately they dont pay the bills. With rising costs in everything here and low wages...i may have to leave very soon. I envy the people who got out. I only wish that the people who ran the city and surrounding areas knew how bad it really is. They make no attempt to keep people here. I sure hope they read this site so maybe they will wake up someday. Buffalo is taking steps backwards instead of forwards and i blame the politians-they all want a piece of the pie and none of them seem to care about the BIG picture...BOO HOO- i will miss only the people.
Guest 11-Jan-2006 05:09
What a marvelous site this is. I moved from Buffalo 17 years ago but still have all of my family and many very close friends there. I will always consider Buffalo my "home." I grew up in South Buffalo, spent countless hours at Crystal Beach as a young girl, and enjoyed the nightlife in the city (my favorite--Mulligans Brick Bar!!) when I was older. Saw a picture of the church I attended all my life until I moved away (Holy Family). Thank you so much for letting me remember. Your pictures are a treasure.
Guest 11-Jan-2006 00:09
YOUR PHOTO'S ARE GREAT.IGREW UP ON THE WESTSIDE AT 7TH & VERMONT . I REALLY MISS THE NEIGHBORHOOD. I PRESENTLY AND FOR THE PAST 30 YRS AM RESIDING IN WILLIAMSVILLE, NY. I RETIRED FROM THE BUFFALO POLICE DEPT. BUT AM STILL WORKING AS A BRANCH MANAGER FOR A NATIONAL SECURITY GUARD CO. KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK.
Guest 10-Jan-2006 18:47
Thank you for the wonderful pictures. Buffalonians are special people. Friendly and warm hearted. I Have lived in many places and we (Buffalonians) look for each other in the other places we live and visit. I have met people from Buffalo in Las Vegas, Boston, NYC, Toronto and yes in Europe. When we meet we immediately connect. I do not know if it is that way with people transplanted from other cities, but it sure is with us.
Kevin 10-Jan-2006 03:41
I never left Buffalo. Sometimes I feel like George in "It's a wonderful life". Things kept me here. After years of being here, I actually found out it's a great to be. The polititions suck, but it's a wonderful, scenic place to raise a family. I have 2 daughters and they can't wait leave. I love this part of NY,yet I can understand why my childeran want to travel on. I have been across the USA, and have yet to find a place as friendly as Western NY and Fort Erie Canada.
Long live Buffalo NY. We have sent the best people out to spread good will through America.
Mike Devaney 31-Dec-2005 15:29
For all the true romantics out there (thank you Karl and Jennifer), read the captions under the pictures in the gallery "36 YEARS WITH JENNIFER"!!! Born in So. Buffalo in 1957, I missed some of the early rock 'n roll references, but loved WKBW. As to food I miss...give me a TEXAS RED HOT, no onion, extra sauce...make it THREE! My grandmother, Winifred Caldwell ( see www.typetching.com ), became a local Buffalo celebrity of sorts with her artwork. Thanks again Karl and Jennifer! From somewhere between Memphis and St. Louis. Go Bills!
Jack 30-Dec-2005 16:43
nice site
Albert Phlegm 26-Dec-2005 19:54
Great Website
jake 22-Dec-2005 22:38
Nice site
Barbara Broder 22-Dec-2005 17:01
I left the Buffalo area in 1975 after 2 years at Erie Country Technical Institute (now Erie Community College)and headed for San Francisco. After five years there I spent twelve years in a beach community near Los Angeles and have now been in the Seattle area since 1992. I grew up in Tonawanda, graduated from Kenmore East. My family is still all there and I try to visit once a year. I can't believe no one mentioned Andersen's custard! Yes, it's true! After living all over the west coast there is no food like you find in Buffalo. Crystal Beach is a strong memory (oh, how I loved those big peanut suckers!)and dancing at the Inferno! I have to agree the politics there are ridiculous! I will never miss the weather...too hot and too cold for me...but it will always be home. Go Sabres!!!
Phil smith 20-Dec-2005 04:54
It's great to read about all the
Crystal Beach memories.....great pictures too....please share them athttp://groups.yahoo.com/group/crystalbeachontario

Thanks!
Guest 18-Dec-2005 16:54
I remember Jakubowski's restaurant at 52 Ashley St. as "Buck's" Tavern. I lived across the street.
Michael Mondia 17-Dec-2005 21:12
Just an after thought. After spending the last few hours looking at ALL the pictures of Buffalo, I have to say you have done a "FANTASTIC' job of helping us oldtimers to remember our youth. Most people that are not from Buffalo will never understand just what the city means to us. It truly is like no other town, even though to others, they see it as just another city. A good example is our BILLS. No other city in the NFL will sell out in the middle of winter (with a losing team). Our fans do not leave when it looks like the game is over. There are thousand of other examples that show our commraderie. I have lived in Florida since 1985, but Buffalo will always be my HOME. Oh well, like the old saying goes,"I guess you just have to have been there". Thanks again for the memories. Michael Mondia e-mail: getbackmack@aol.com
Michael Mondia 16-Dec-2005 19:24
I have lived in Florida since 1985. My sister just sent me these pictures. I just e-mailed her back saying it was the best thing she has ever sent me. I was born in Buffalo in 1951 and all of my family is still there. They have kept me in touch with Buffalo over the years, but I must say these pictures are AWESOME. The Crystal beach pictures were great. Our parents took us there each summer. However it seems the Crystal Beach boat seemed a lot larger when we we small and rode it to the park. Then they would also take us to Fantasy Island on Grand Island. Is it still there? At the time we lived on Baitz Avenue off Clinton near Bailey. Down the street lived George Lorenz and his family. My sisters went to school with his two sons and daughter. I can still see him driving down the street on his way back and forth to the station WBLK, which yes he did found and own. He would drive a big white convertable Cadillac. He always had the top down with his right arm out over the passenger seat. He had at the time, the coolest goatee and he was always smoking this big cigar. After he reired he passed the station down to his oldest son. Lo and behold you would then see Frankie driving down the street in a big white convertable Cadillac with his arm over the right seat, wearing a goatee and smoking a big cigar. Thanks for the memories and GO BILLS.
Ausen 15-Dec-2005 16:36
Cool Site!!
Justin Case 15-Dec-2005 16:08
GREAT jus t GREAT
Donnette Glaeser Hennigar 11-Dec-2005 18:11
I WAS BORN IN BUFFALO IN 1924. THE EAST UTICA STREETCAR WAS 3 CENTS TO TAKE ME TO ST MARYS SEMINARY WHICH IS LONG SINCE GONE AT NORTH & FRANKLIN STS. MY GRADE SCHOOL WAS ST. NICHOLAS, ALSO TORN DOWN AS IS THE ENTIRE BLOCK. WE MOVED TO WEST UTICA AND DELAWARE WHEN MY PARENTS PURCHASED THE JOHN LORD O'BRIAN HOME FROM WHICH I WAS MARRIED AT THE NEW CATHEDRAL, ALSO DEMOLISHED. TWO OF MY 8 CHILDREN STILL LIVE ON GRAND ISLAND SO I VISIT IN THE SUMMER. ALL OF US DOWN HERE IN FLORIDA ARE STILL RABID BILLS FANS !! THIS SITE IS THE GREATEST
Mike and Louise Kester 08-Dec-2005 03:40
What a wonderful gift you have given to all of us by sharing your talent. I grew up in South Buffalo, in Holy Family Parish. The church bells summoned us home at 9 PM each summer night and to 9 AM mass each Sunday of our youth. My husband grew up in the First Ward and going to Crystal Beach was the highlight of our summer vacations. We did not know each other in those years but we share the same memories of this wonderful city and the cultural diversity it offered to us. We have been gone a long time but will always call Buffalo "Home".
Jorge07-Dec-2005 14:13
Not sure how I stumbled onto your site however I am glad I did. What an incredible life story, inspirational on not only your love for each other but on your individual accomplishments from life's turn of events.
Throughout the reading I got a sense of history from your relationship yet always knowing there's destiny for you both.
Thank you.
Shanda Leer 05-Dec-2005 02:27
Fantastic site. I'll return again soon.
Ivanna 01-Dec-2005 01:13
Great site!
Frank 30-Nov-2005 19:32
This is an interesting galleries
jon 29-Nov-2005 19:03
great site!
Guest 28-Nov-2005 23:06
I am doing some research on prisons and google lead me to your site. WOw! you sir have had an interesting life -- the photos you took in prisons are undoubtedly quite disturbing and just plain frightening. Some being quite chilling; literally putting chills down my spine. The last meal, the chair rectangles and the solitary confinement rec photo is enough to make anyone feel clostraphobic.
Lynn (Barone) Wilcox 22-Nov-2005 17:30
Greeting from Orlando....Oh boy, Crystal Beach brings back some fond memories-first kisses in the tunnel of love!!!! I grew up on the Lake, been gone 25 years now but I will always miss western NY
Allison Parry 21-Nov-2005 20:40
Thanks for your great site! I grew up in Buffalo 65' to 77'. Remember the Cinderella carriages in Chestnutt Ridge Park? Most of my extended family, have left Buffalo now. I came back in 97' and enjoyed site seeing. Now I can show my kids where I lived and played as a child. Anyone from PS 72', howdy from Texas!!!
Nancy Burger 07-Nov-2005 13:06
Yes we have some snow in the winter but......no hurricanes, tornados,mudslides,or wild fires or earth quakes. Our snow might slow us down for a few hours but hardly ever does minimal damage.I love the Buffalo area. I was born here and plan to stay!
Lee Hoffman 01-Nov-2005 22:44
Great site. Spent my youth in Buffalo and Crystal Beach My aunt had a cottage on top of the hill by the water tower.
Rob 01-Nov-2005 18:39
There is a sign on an NFTA building on Broadway between Baily & Ogden that you have to get in your collection. It's across the top of the building on the front. It reads something along the lines of: "Newer buses, more post war models". Very cool.
John Senior 31-Oct-2005 21:57
I haven't heard anyone mention Santasiero's.Restaurant
open for 84 years and still serving great foof
Joe Castillas 31-Oct-2005 20:20
Love the site!~
John 31-Oct-2005 18:55
Nice site man! keep up the good work!
TJ Marsteller 26-Oct-2005 23:26
I've lived in Buffalo for over 34 years now, it is a great place with great people and great food too.
UWA 24-Oct-2005 17:30
I AM UWA FROM TOGO
Juan 22-Oct-2005 23:33
Great site, keep it up!

- Juan
Guest 20-Oct-2005 12:35
a big thank you.....you have given much happy reminiscing to many people born/raised in Buffalo & areas closeby.
Guest 13-Oct-2005 19:06
Where's school 66? I attended school there in the early 70's. Many happy childhood memories from there. Would love to see it. Thanks!
peter brown 09-Oct-2005 17:20
That will be " goldenyachts@gmail.com "
peter brown 09-Oct-2005 17:18
" A bittersweet trip into the past" it was.....If one of you, my friends...are in Monaco, please feel free to visit me. (email me first please...).

Peter Brown
Monte Carlo
Monaco.
Edwards 30-Sep-2005 05:07
Brilliant site!
Lynda Leixner 02-Sep-2005 11:18
Thanks so much for your wonderful site..As a 9 year old I came to Buffalo December,1949 and remember that the stuffed Buffalo was my first impression as we got off the train (and I slipped on the icy platform) from San Diego California, my birthplace. I lived and grew up in Buffalo and left with my own family in 1987 for the Sunshine state. Thanks so much for capturing so many of the places I remember...It was a wonderful place to grow up...my adult children agree as well...also loved your tribute to Jennifer...Thanks
Jo Ann B 21-Aug-2005 19:53
Someone asked if we remembered Major Hooples! Darned if I know anybody else. And the Warehouse? Is that what it was called? What tremendous pictures. How about Bobby singing at the bar up in Crystal Beach? Anybody remember her trio? What fun days! Burying the summer on Labor Day weekend!
Paul 20-Jul-2005 07:25
Hello Karl,
I like to brouse through different sites to pass time on my nights off from my job. I came across your site and I was just overwhelmed by the love your pictures displayed between you and your wife. What a beautiful woman portrayed through the memories you created. Your openess to share with other people is heart warming. May God Bless the two of you and your family for many more happy years to come. Thanks again!
donna 10-Jul-2005 00:51
hi im donna and i live in Crystal Beach. I love this town! My father was born and raised here and so was I
Robert 03-Jul-2005 14:52
cool
judy montague 24-Jun-2005 14:37
I came to live in Buffalo in the mid 60s and moved away in '93..I am about to visit after more than 10 years and the photos reminded me of the Buffalo I loved..My husband and I especially loved Allentown, where we lived and where he was a well known artist..The Allentown Art Shows were always wonderful and the special Allentown neighborhood was a mecca for artists, writers, etc. Thank you for your photos...
Lisa Iris 05-Jun-2005 00:13
Thank you for a superb site! Does anyone remember a photo booth at CB where you'd be seated on a crescent moon with a black backdrop? Does anyone remember "fishing", a magnet at the end of the line, and the fish entitled you to a gift? My mom still has a bird shaped porcelein pitcher she won, possibly from the '30s.
HI 03-Jun-2005 23:40
Cool site A+
Jim & Jean Missig 22-Apr-2005 17:46
Karl,
Next week we depart from Joliet IL to visit Lake ontario lighthouses. Any suggestions as
this is the last of the great lakes for us to circle to view lighthouses. Which island light houses are accessable by boat and you feel would be important to visit.
Your galleries are outstanding.
Ken Podd 16-Apr-2005 00:10
What a bittersweet trip into the past to see all those sad but also beautiful pictures of "the way we were" in Buffalo....when you live it, it isn't so important, but when it is brought back to you so beautifully, as through your photography, it makes you realize what you've really lost - all of which is enough introspection for one day! wonderful pix
Guest 25-Mar-2005 02:57
Karl,
Thanks for your reply. I've passed your kind comments on to Diane. Hearing from you, I think she's ready for more photos. I've always loved that Mulroney / Reagan quote. Probably not the greatest leaders we ever had, but certainly the most entertaining!

Best,
Guest 20-Mar-2005 22:02
Karl,
I hope you take imitation as a form of flattery. Having enjoyed your 35 Years With Jennifer, I mulched through my old scrapbooks, and put together 38 Years With Diane. It would appear that you were at least thinking of serious photography decades ago, while I was simply taking snapshots. Nevertheless, like you, I think I've gone some way towards capturing the maturing of a beautiful woman. Check out: pbase.com/albertaracers/galleries

Thanks for the idea. I think we are both blessed to live under the same roof as a great model.

Best,
Dick McDonell
Sarah 05-Feb-2005 18:12
Thanks for sharing. I love the 35 years pictures - they are becoming quite a hit on the internet :) I've heard of the link from a variety of sources.

www.kurtandsarah.com
monika 16-Dec-2004 18:37
I really like it!!!
Susanne Sprague 05-Dec-2004 22:29
Great to see the jeep on your site. Made my Hubby's day !! Keep up the good work. Thanks
Dave Beedon 24-Nov-2004 06:00
Thanks for the photo coverage of Buffalo, especially of unused buildings (sad sights!). Keep up the good work.
retha 15-Nov-2004 04:25
I just finished viewing "35 years with Jennifer" & wow! what a sweet testament of your love for each other. It was also interesting to read thru the comments you've received in that gallery. You have certainly proven the power of the photographic essay by the tremendous outpouring of emotion it provoked from both men and women, young and old. What a beautiful success story, in oh so many ways. Kudos & all the best! --Retha
p.s. I spent so much time visiting "35 years..." that I will have to return another day to view your other galleries. Thank you for such a beautiful story.
Leo from China 20-Oct-2004 04:56
Great love story. It's a wonderful thing to look back into your life and found it was enjoyed. sharing it with others brings much joy to everyone who sees those photos. Thank very much for let us take part in it.
Nadeem 29-Sep-2004 18:14
Those pictures of your wife are amazing. And your narrative under each picture is so moving. One of the most touching things I've ever seen online - and I've been surfing for seven years.

I pray your marriage continues to be happy...

Nadeem

http://www.121Love.com
danmugu 23-Sep-2004 21:08
it is apleasure meeting friends here,keep you good work up.
guymen keep off,i de hereoooooooooooooooooo
Guest 30-Jul-2004 07:48
Hey Karl,

Cool site. I really dig the 35 years of your wife and the captions that go along. It's inspiring. I enjoy shooting my lady and cars as well. Stop by my site when you get a chance. Keep clickin'
Keith Carey
Mare' 07-Jul-2004 02:39
Karl;
Great job....as always....
I'd would expect nothing else!

Huggie,huggie
Mare'
Sarah (Dickerson) Kauffman 21-Jun-2004 20:19
Thanks, Karl, for those wonderful photos!! I was born in 1942 in Niagara Falls, NY. What great memories were made in those days! I grew up on 29th Street near Pine Ave., went to 24th Street school in the 1950's and graduated from Stella Niagara in 1960.
My parents took me to Crystal Beach every summer. My Dad would go with me on the yellow roller coaster, so I could get "warmed up", then we would go on the Comet. We started doing this when I was about 10, and continued into my late teens. He remembered going on the Cyclone when he was young. My Mom went with me on the Caterpillar, as she was afraid of roller coasters, although she went with me once on the Wild Mouse. Never again! She loved the "suckers" and bought a bunch to take home. They had a gazillion flavors. And the "chips" with vinegar and the drinks - I used to believe there was actually a fruit called a "loganberry". When I was 12, we took a night cruise from Buffalo to CB. I loved the dance music! And the dance hall at CB, which doubled as a roller rink - the floor was "smooth as a baby's ass" - to quote a friend. As a teen, I skated and danced there on dates. Also saw Fabian, and Jan and Dean in person there. My three cousins lived in Ridgway and we often went to CB with them. And who can forget the rice pudding at the Pine Cone restaurant?? I'm now living north of San Francisco but haven't forgotten the Buffalo-Niagara area, which I visit yearly. I've shared your photos with my cousins and friends. Thanks again for bringing us back to our roots.
Debbie Jay Curtin 08-Jun-2004 11:33
Everytime I visit Buffalo, I have a strong urge to "go to the Beach!" What wonderful summers we had at the cottage - I am so thankful for those times. And the Park was amazing... I love Miami but nothing compares to Crystal Beach.
Guest 03-Jun-2004 02:11
Very nice to see Crystal Beach, they moved the Comet several years ago and I rode it the first week it was open, It had been many years as I went in the fifties, great memories, french fries in paper cone cups with the smell of vinegar and cool lake air.. John
Karl R. Josker02-Jun-2004 16:00
It is in the back of my mind to do schools; your suggestion about neighborhoods intrigues me, I think it can be done. It will require some thought, research, and plenty of input from others to help me determine what was the essence of a particular neighborhood.
C 02-Jun-2004 15:04
How about creating a page about schools (elementary & high school). Also neighborhoods. What do you think?
Guest 19-May-2004 05:51
having lived in buffalo for 6 years, your galleries are a pleasant surprise. your shots are not typical and really give a fresh perspective on WNY and the midwest.. oh, and the lighthouses collection is great!
Arthur(pete) Lord 17-May-2004 20:22
It was wonderful re-visiting Crystal Beach! My friends and I had great times there. I'm 69 and I started going with my friends when I was about 10 or 11 I believe. Then took girl friends to the dances at the ball room when I was home from college.( I drove over then) I can remember going to see and dance to Stan Kenton who had a lot of great jazz soloists. Went to see lots of other famous big bands ,but can't remember any of them. But when I was young it was the great boat ride. Used to get the coupons out of the newspaper and redeem them for amusement ride tickets. The french fries and vinegar--I can still remember the taste vividly. My favorite ride was the "Flying Scooter"--I believe that was what it was called. It went around in a high circle and you could control a lot of the motion with a huge rear rudder--operated by hand. I was probably there last in the late 1950's--so many of you have much more rcent memories! Thanks
mugu 13-May-2004 04:25
MUGU HOW ARE YOU """"""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
GUS 10-May-2004 02:50
Thank you so much for the Crystal Beach Photos. They brought tears to my eyes. I can't believe how much I remembered by just looking at them. They also made me think about the suckers. We would never leave to go home without a bunch of those!! My family went up there alot and they were the best times ever!
BURT GREEN 09-May-2004 20:58
I was born in Buffalo, Roeher ave. Played many times in Humbold Park , and so many wonderful trips to Crytstal Bea ch.
Thhanks so much for the trip thru memory lane via your excellent Photos!! Enjhoyed them ALL!!!
JOEL S. RUBIN 06-May-2004 15:00
DO YOU WANT A "CRYSTAL BEACH"==========REUNION???????????

I WAS BORN IN BUFFALO NEW YORK=========1942==========WENT TO SCHOOL 66==========BENNETT HIGH=========UNIVERSITY OF BUFFALO================MY "GRANDPARENTS" OWNED A COTTAGE IN "CRYSTAL BEACH"!!!!!!!!!

IT WOULD BE "DYNOMITE" IF WE COULD===========RESTORE==========="CRYSTAL BEACH"!!!!!!!!!!!!

THE GOOD OLD======DAYS============THE=========DAYS FROM =============PAST=============WHAT=============A======="BLAST"!!!!!!!!!!!

JOEL

DR. FOOT
Kathy 02-May-2004 15:29
Crystal Beach is where I spent most of my summers growing up. My best friend, Mary Ellen and her family had a cottage every year. We spent all day at the beach swimming and at night were allowed fifty cents to go to the park. That fifty cents would get us one ride and a sucker! One day every summer was Crystal Beach day for our family. We didn't own a car so we took the Greyhound bus to the beach with a picnic basket. We still have the picture of my brothers and I standing in front of the statue of Paul Bunyan. The memories are many. The sights, the smells, the laughs; especially the day my aunt Betty wet her pants on the Comet, are still ingrained in my brain. Time goes by and things change. The new parks are just not the same. There was an intimacy about Crystal Beach that the others just cannot capture. I listned to my grandmother, mother, father, aunts and uncles tell stories of, "The Beach". I've told stories to my children and have taken tthem there. Now my oldest son who is now 25 has the distinction of telling his children that he was one of the people on the last run of the Comet. What a legacy that wonderful place has left for all of us! If Crystal Beach and Our Lady of Perpetual Help school could be rebuilt, oh how sweet life would be!
Kay 02-May-2004 15:19
This is an amazing compilation of photographs. Thank you for sharing it. I have visited Crystal Beach in my memories many times over the years, but to actually see it in reality is a treat and now I can share it with my family! I left the area (from Clarence,NY) in '68, and visited once with my eldest son when he was 5. I have never found an amusement park that compared to Crystal Beac, and I am a world traveler. Thanks again.
Karen Kumpf-Zepeda 01-May-2004 01:07
I am 55 yo and spent every summer I can remember at cottages in Bay Beach. I met my husband there, all my friends from then and to this day, had cottages in the area. I can remember WKBW disc jockey, Joey Reynolds???, riding the Comet for the entire day. I remember when they ran the Comet backwards.....some of my best memories are from Crystal Beach...........Thank you for this!
Nick Ortolano 23-Apr-2004 13:08
YOU REALLY BRING BACK SOME FOND MEMORIES WITH ALL THE PHOTOS OF THE AREA AND OTHER LINKS. a FINE WEB SITE. CONGRATULATIONS. We left the Buffalo area for thirty five years and when I saw this site I really appreciated this on our return. Thank you.
Pat Chapman 23-Apr-2004 00:06
I stumbled across your web site recently and was quite surprised to see the photos of St. Mary's Church after the fire. My Dad (Rene Tardif) was the organist and choir director there for many years and I sang in his choir during the fifties.I remember the crowds that used to come to St. Mary's for the many novenas that were held on Wednesdays. The elaborate high masses we sang at every Sunday were attended by former parishioners who lived all over Buffalo and the suburbs but came back to worship at St. Mary's. I still use the wedding gift I received from the Redemporist Fathers in 1956! The Crystal Beach pictures are fun too. This is where Mom and Dad met and where they often went dancing at the ballroom. My husband, children and I have many fond memories of our summer trips to Mom and Dad's cottage at Crystal Beach and to the Park. We had nothing like this in Doylestown Pa. Your photos are great. They recall wonderful memories of my growing up years in Buffalo.
S. Blando 17-Apr-2004 11:48
Talk about a blast from the past. What fond memories these pictures have brought back. I reamember when the fun house was called the Magic Carpet. The mirrors that made u look funny, the electric seat, the slanted room, the blast of air that made your skirt blow up (remember ladies) and riding on the carpet when it was over. Oh what fun that was and how sad that is is gone. Thank you for sharing and bringing back an old friend.
Corky Zanda 17-Apr-2004 01:30
What a thing to do to me; put pictures of cb in front of me with no worning.What memories they bring.I would stand at the fence of the fun house & wait for the blast of air that blew the girls skirts up.How they would yell. Watching people of differnt faiths & race mingling and having good clean fun. THANK YOU !!!!
Stephanie 09-Apr-2004 07:53
My husband and I are in Phoenix, AZ now, but were born and raised in Buffalo. We both enjoyed your wonderful pictures of Crystal Beach. What a wonderful trip down Memory Lane!
Thanks!
Stephanie
Michele Maldonado 08-Apr-2004 12:53
Hi Karl,
I too thank you so much for this trip down memory lane. I viewed all the pictures and I even think I see myself in the Crystal beach scene (8/89)- even though my back is to you. I spent every summer until I was 17 in Crystal Beach. My cottage was at 89 Elmwood Ave. I made really good friends that I still have contact with-Patty Napier, Lori Hilliker, Maryann Miller and Dawn Fyke, and our neighbors, the Matthews. This was one of the best times of my life. If I wasn't sleeping I was at Bay Beach, the Park or Hot Dog Alley. It was the only place to be and what memories I have to keep forever. Thanks again.
Ron 06-Apr-2004 20:24
Gosh, what great memories - Riverside Day at the Beach until we moved to Kenmore and than it was Kenmore Day at the Beach. Those wonderful french fries which I have never forgotten but have never found again - in Canada, Australia, or any of the United States. Maybe I should go to England to see if I can capture that great taste again. Also my first kiss in the tunnel of love the summer between Junior and Senior High School. And who can forget the rollercoaster and the Comet. Look Ma, no hands! I always looked forwarded to the boat trip and the smells of the old boat and Crystal Beach. I last saw Crystal Beach in 1954 after high school graduation and entering the US AIR FORCE. I never returned but I have thought about it often over the past 50 years.Wonderful memories.
s.horb 06-Apr-2004 00:56
Just wanted to say what "memories" seeing the CB pictures. I grew up in Fort Erie, Ont. and CB was my favorite hangout. The Comet was the most exciting, and spent many hours learning how to roller skate. CB was the first place I got sick on a ride, due to an over happy employee, who wanted to give us a ride for our money! CB was a very unique place and was sorry to see it shut down. I will always remember the good times there and memories are something noone can take away. You did a great job in capturing CB. Thanks.
Jeff Cochran04-Apr-2004 17:59
Hello, I enjoyed your photos.Thx for sharing. :)
Jeff
http://www.pbase.com/savannahga
Guest 03-Apr-2004 06:06
These photos sure bring back memories. I used to go to CB in the mid 70's when I was a little boy with my mom and dad when I lived in Buffalo. I moved to southern California in 1979 and would always think of the yellow Giant Coaster. The first chance that I was able to get back to Buffalo was in 1986 when I was 12 years old. By then, I was old enough to ride the Comet for the first time. I remember getting in the short line for the ride and then getting off and going right back on about 50 times in a row. I have been to many six flags parks across the US and no roller coaster even comes close to the Comet. Not even the Beast or Son Of The Beast at Kings Island in Ohio. It was the first roller coaster that I rode in which you could choose to ride forwards or backwards. I wish I would have been around when the Cyclone was there. I have seen CB on TLC when they are judging the best roller coasters in the US. The comet always seems to be #1. I really miss going there because it was an uncrowded entertaining place. Here on the west coast, especially at Disneyland, you have to wait at least 30 to 45 minutes to get on a ride. Thanks for posting the pictures and keeping the memory of CB alive.

Tony
BILL "BUTCH" GERST 01-Apr-2004 17:05
KARL, YOU HAVE LIT MY FIRE.I SPENT EVERY SUMMER FROM BIRTH TO 17 YEARS OLD AT CRYSTAL BEACH. WE HAD A COTTAGE AT 42 ASHWOOD LANE,IT WAS CALLED "ME-N-MYNE" I WORKED AT THE PARK AND MY LAST SUMMER WAS ON THE ELECTRIC BOATS FOR STU GIBSON,ANY OLD BUDDIES PLEASE CONTACT ME???
Judy 01-Apr-2004 16:14
Karl what beautiful memories you have brought back to me this morning! I live in Wyoming County where I have lived all my life and my Dad use to work at a plant in Buffalo as a Tool and Die maker. Every year the plant would take all employees and their families to Crystal Beach via the boat from Buffalo. That was the first boat I had ever been on and what trips they were. We would spend the whole day there and return home in the late afternoon. I have to send your site to my sister who now lives in Texas as I know it will bring her fond memories also. After I got married we took the children a couple of times and stayed in a cabin close by and they loved it also. I wished they never would have closed it down as now I know the grandkids would love it also. Thank you so much for making my day and giving me a smile! Hugs Judy
lily 29-Mar-2004 23:11
oh ,for those days again,,the memories are made more realistic when you can see the views thank you...
Richard J. Mann SR. 26-Mar-2004 03:07
I took my children on what turned out to be the very last day the park wes open. We had a wonderful tim. We rode the Comet a half dozen times forward & backward. The food, rides and atmosphere combinded to leave a lasting impression in even my childrens mind. We even have the " MAKE YOUR OWN RECORD " tapes. Thank you for this look back.
Lucia 23-Mar-2004 23:50
Sorry. I found the churches that I asked about. Thank you again.
Lucia 23-Mar-2004 23:47
Your pictures are wonderful. I nearly cried as I looked through the Crystal Beach pictures . . . aahh, the memories. I find myself coming back to this site to reminisce. I moved away from Buffalo in 1998; it's nice to have your gallery to visit. Buffalo did have some amazing architecture. I didn't see any pictures of St. Stans or Corpus Christi churches. You wouldn't happen to have those, would you? Thank you for the look back.
Dave 20-Mar-2004 08:19
As a lot of other folks did, I left the Buffalo area for "greener" pastures many years ago. The memories of places like Crystal Beach and the other places you photographed made me realize that the area held many special treasures that can no longer be visited. Thank you for posting these images and allowing displaced Western New Yorkers to walk down memeory lane back to a special time their lives.
Egan O'Keefe 18-Mar-2004 11:27
I stumbled on your "35 Years" gallery after I typed the word "Missouri" into the search option. Oddly enough, not one picture of Missouri. It's mentioned a few times...Oh well. But, I have to say, that watching the pictoral timeline of your life with your wife was absolutely overwhelming. It was bittersweet. I've seen pictures of my father and mother when they were younger, my age-ish, and while I can recognize them, they are odd images. People I vaguely know. But I've never seen them laid out so plainly right next to each other. The progression of their lives. It was a delight. Thank you.
Dominic 15-Mar-2004 17:00
Thanks for sharing such wonderful pictures. As a transplanted Western NYer(Phoenix, AZ) it is nice to get a glimpse of home from afar. Your images encouraged some much needed reminiscing. I always remember the one Bills game I went to with my dad back in the 60's at War Memorial. Several concerts at Shea's also were remembered. The pictures of Shea's made me remember the Century Theatre and also Kleinhans Music hall. I went to many great concerts at those two venues especially at Century. Wish you had some pictures of that place before it was demolished. Thanks again!! Great Stuff!!
Terry Urness 08-Feb-2004 16:08
Thanks for a wonderful gallery. It quite literally brought tears to my eyes.
Selvin Chance07-Feb-2004 16:29
Karl,
Kudos on your galleries. To capture the story of towns and places etc. is an enthralling adventure. Your tribute to Jennifer is full of warmth and love.

http://pbase.com/selvin

Aloha
Selvin
Guest 06-Feb-2004 05:12
Just went through the "35 years" and wanted to thank you for the inspiration. I've just been wondering if anyone who starts young and together makes it anymore. The brief trip through a glimpse of your life was awesome.
Anna Yu28-Nov-2003 05:42
Hi Karl,
Thanks for the email. It's strange that your EXIF information disappears after rotating in PS. In the beginning too I was very self-concious (sorry I can't spell that) with the tripod and other gadgets. I found out that people don't even notice photographers, or tend to ignore them... :-) Take as much time as you need and take many shots from different angles. Buy a remote release so you don't have to wait 10s.
Inspired by your church interiors I tried to take some last weekend. Certainly NOT very vertical here ;-)

http://www.pbase.com/image/23595697

Ah well "back to Photoshop"

Regards/Anna
Laura 25-Nov-2003 01:01
karl, thanks for sharing your photos. i was truly surprised at the number of lighthouses on lake erie. the photos of crystal beach were my favorite, as i was viewing them i found myself saying out loud "i remember that"! you're a skilled photographer karl, keep on clicking. laura
Anna Yu22-Nov-2003 15:52
Hi Karl,
Thank you for visiting and leaving such a kind note in my gallery. I was admiring your pictures of church interiors. Can you post some info on f-stop, exposure time, lens used? Did you need a tripod? I've been trying similar shots without success. Thanks again, Anna