History of the Museum / News Release Archive - March 2005 * Represents newest additions to our Archive
Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Museum Announces Volunteer Assignments Judith M. Mittiga, a North Tonawanda resident, has been named Volunteer Coordinator of the North Tonawanda History Museum . Mittiga is chair of the Lumber City Scavenger Hunt, a contest wherein people must visit participating North Tonawanda businesses to obtain the answer to a question supplied by each business. A Museum Trustee, she is also chair of the Personnel Committee, which has oversight over the volunteer program in the all-volunteer organization. In addition, she is a member of the Community Relations Committee. She is an operations assistant with HSBC Bank. HSBC Bank N.A. has recently awarded a $350 grant to the North Tonawanda History Museum in recognition of HSBC Bank Mittiga's volunteer service with the Museum. Lou Omel , an Amherst resident and former North Tonawanda resident, has been named Research Technologist. He is presently producing a historical resources survey for the Museum and provides research assistance to Museum staff. He has been active with the Museum since its inception. Jane Garis , a Niagara Falls resident, is Archival Records Coordinator. She is responsible for the archival records management system of the Museum and how it interfaces with the Museum's digital records management system. John P. Zellner Neal , a North Tonawanda resident, has been named Webmaster. Neal has coordinated the restructuring of the Museum's website at www.nthistorymuseum.org , which includes information on Museum operations and events, historical materials, and an on-line gift shop. It includes a cluster of interactive forums (technical and general), including an Ask Mr. History component. Neal had previously served as Staff & Technological Assistant since the Museum's inception.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon For Immediate Release Museum Begins Collecting Recipes For Second In Series Of Heritage Cookbooks; First Cookbook Already In Second Printing The North Tonawanda History Museum Community Relations Committee is assembling a " North Tonawanda Families & Their Favorite Recipes Cookbook," to be the second in its series of North Tonawanda Heritage Cookbooks. North Tonawanda residents and former residents are invited to submit recipes for inclusion in the cookbook," noted Cynthia Fredricks, Heritage Cookbooks Chair. "If you have stories or memories to share about your family's history in North Tonawanda or about the recipes and their role in your family's life, we would love to include these also." The new cookbooks should be ready in time for Christmas giving. To participate in the project, call 213-0554 or 692-2681 or e-mail to nthistorymuseum@aol.com . You may also mail or deliver your materials to the North Tonawanda History Museum , 314 Goundry Street , North Tonawanda , NY 14120. The “North Tonawanda Ethnic Heritage Cookbook, published by the North Tonawanda History Museum, which was released for sale on January 6, immediately required a second printing, reported Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal. “Response has far exceeded our expectations,” she noted. “We took advance orders for some, but our office was humming when the cookbooks arrived and Hodgepodge and Barb's Sweet Treats sold out their starter supply the first day and called for replenishment,” she continued. We have added additional outlets for this new supply. Cynthia Fredricks also coordinated the creation and compilation of the cookbook. Cookbooks are available for purchase at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street , at Hodgepodge, 72 Webster Street , Barb's Sweet Treats, 238 Oliver Street , in the Mayor's office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue , and at the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, 15 Webster Street . The cookbooks are for sale at $6.69 including tax. Cookbooks are also available by mail from the Museum (include $3 for shipping and handling per cookbook). Museum hours are Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. ; Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. ; Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. ; and Fridays 9 to noon. NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment The North Tonawanda History Museum has totally revamped its official website at www.nthistorymuseum.org . The website was established October 15, 2003 , with the assistance of a former North Tonawanda resident living in California . “The Board of Trustees authorized the site initially as a public relations tool for the new museum effort they had begun in September 2003,” noted Cynthia Fredricks, President of the Board of Trustees. “The site became so popular, with residents and former residents around the world contacting us that the original scope of the site was quickly shelved.” “Never having done a website before, and with no real concept of the potential at first, we watched it grow, and grow, and grow,” said Donna Zellner Neal, Director. “In the last half of 2004, we had the volunteer services of two volunteer webmasters. However, the Board of Trustees began analyzing responses from the community and visitors to the actual Museum opened in October 2004, as well as the previous input from visitors to the website.” “In January, we came to the conclusion that a total overhaul was necessary in order to make the site amenable to our plans for the future,” continued Fredricks. “John P. Zellner Neal, who had been serving as volunteer Staff & Technological Assistant since the beginning of the effort to create the Museum, was asked to review the existing site with the Board of Trustees and make recommendations on how to modify it to make possible its use in the ways the Board of Trustees plans to use it. Quite quickly, it became apparent that a completely new site would be easier than to attempt to modify the existing site.” Neal was given the assignment in early February to create a totally new site to meet with the future requirements of the Board of Trustees. “We believe the new site is much easier to navigate, and it contains sections on the administrative and legal information visitors and donors request, the Museum's educational and other programming and events and activities, our 2005 Historic Gardens Contest and the “Future of our Past” Logo Design Contest which is related to our capital campaign for our future permanent home,” continued Donna Zellner Neal. “It also includes interactive forums and a chat room for visitors to the site, an Ask Mr. History section, and an assortment of historical data and photographs. It also contains a section where other cultural and historical venues with websites are linked to the site, and a section where they may post their ongoing events, as well as a guestbook. All who sign the guestbook receive a personal response from Museum staff. An online gift shop is also part of the site. The Museum's museum software, purchased with a grant obtained in 2005 by Senator Maziarz, for cataloguing and collections management, membership management, and volunteer management, is currently in the process of initialization by Christine Gebera, volunteer Technological Cataloguing & Collections Management Coordinator, and will eventually interact with the website. John Neal will maintain and continue to develop the new website.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Public invited to North Tonawanda's Birthday Party on April 18! Tonawanda News, Rotary Club of the Tonawandas, and First Baptist Church also to be feted with birthday cakes from Budwey's bakery! The North Tonawanda History Museum 's April meeting,, which is free and open to the general public, will be North Tonawanda's Birthday Party , to begin at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 18 also in the DeGraff Community Center , 139 Division Street . Come celebrate the 1 st anniversary of the North Tonawanda History Museum Charter (4/20/04), the City of North Tonawanda's 108 th birthday (4/24/1897), the 140 th anniversary of North Tonawanda's incorporation as a village (5/8/1865), the 125 th anniversary of the founding of our daily newspaper, now the Tonawanda News, the 100 th anniversary of Rotary International and the 88 th anniversary of the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas (1917), and the 120 th anniversary of First Baptist Church (founded at 190 Vandervoort Street in 1885) and its 40 th anniversary at its present home at 530 Meadow Drive. Representatives of the Tonawanda News, the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas, and First Baptist Church will share their history. The evening's activities will be recorded as part of the Museum's “Share Your Memories” oral history program. Refreshments will include birthday cakes provided by Budwey's Bakery. Guests are invited to bring photos and other memorabilia from the city's or their family's history to share at the event. Certificates of Gift forms will be available at the meeting for those wishing to make donations of any items for the Museum's collections as a birthday gift for North Tonawanda . Photos or printed material may also be loaned to the Museum for scanning and copying, with the originals to be returned to the owner if desired. The “ North Tonawanda Ethnic Heritage Cookbook,” which was released for sale on January 6, has gone into a second printing, reported Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal. “Response has far exceeded our expectations,” she noted. “We took advance orders for some, but our office was humming when the cookbooks arrived and Hodgepodge and Barb's Sweet Treats sold out their starter supply the first day and called for replenishment,” she continued. “We have added additional outlets for this new supply.” The unique cookbook contains 115 recipes, with a variety of ethnic flavoring, each including a historical note about the family or individuals contributing or originating the recipe. A brief history of North Tonawanda is included as well. The cookbook is dedicated to Ken Mountain , a 1958 graduate of North Tonawanda High School , who is a Charter member of the new Museum and a researcher/writer for the Museum. He is credited as having suggested the cookbook project. He is now a resident of Texas . Cynthia Fredricks coordinated the creation and compilation of the cookbook. The cookbook is the first in a series of heritage cookbooks to be published by the Museum. Recipes have already come in for inclusion in the second cookbook, “ North Tonawanda Families & Their Favorite Recipes.” Museum representatives request additional recipes from North Tonawanda residents and former residents, each including a brief biographical or historical note about the contributing family or individual. Cookbooks are now available at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street , at Hodgepodge, 72 Webster Street , Barb's Sweet Treats, 238 Oliver Street , in the Mayor's office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue , and at the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, 15 Webster Street . The cookbooks are for sale at $6.69 including tax. Cookbooks are also available by mail from the Museum (include $3 for shipping and handling per cookbook). Tickets to the Historic Treasures Tour may be ordered by mail or be purchased at the Museum, at Hodgepodge, Barb's Sweet Treats, the Mayor's office, the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, and at Lovin' Life, 305 Robinson Street . Call 213-0554 or 692-2681 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com . Museum hours for 2005 are Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. ; Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. ; Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. ; and Fridays 9 to noon . Registrations will be accepted for the May 21 bus trip to the Niagara County Historical Society in Lockport . The event will be a joint participation in Preservation Month 2005 by the two historical organizations, with the Society hosting Museum guests. Attendees will meet at the Museum at 314 Oliver Street at 9 a.m. Parking will be available in the lot behind Ascension Church 's Monsignor Szabo Hall on Vandervoort Street between Robinson and Keil. The bus will leave 314 Oliver Street at 9:30 a.m. Attendees will tour the five historic homes on the Historical Society campus and pay a visit to the Outwater Emporium Gift Shop. The bus will leave at 12:30 for a trip to Pane's Restaurant for a 1:15 p.m. luncheon. The bus will drop attendees off at either the Monsignor Szabo Hall parking lot or at the Museum. A $25 advance registration is required, which includes the bus trip, parking, admission, and the luncheon. Registrations will also be accepted for the Museum's First Annual Meeting to be held on Thursday, June 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Elks Club Hall, 20 Main Street . Come celebrate with us, learn of our first year's accomplishments and plans for the future, and help us honor those wonderful Honorary Charter Life Members, Advisory Committee members, and our special volunteers who have helped us create the North Tonawanda History Museum . Advance registration required: reception with cash bar; $15 each; $25 couple. Tickets will also be available at the party for the Sunday, July 31, Historic Treasures Tour 2005, a walking/driving tour of ten historic homes, five historic churches, and four other historical sites in North Tonawanda.
NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Museum to Host North Tonawanda 's Birthday Party-- to include other celebrations! Public invited. Preservation Month Trip to County Historical Society; First Annual Meeting! Programming set through December 2005 The North Tonawanda History Museum's April meeting,, which is free and open to the general public, will be North Tonawanda's Birthday Party , to begin at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 18 also in the DeGraff Community Center , 139 Division Street . Come celebrate the 1 st anniversary of the North Tonawanda History Museum Charter (4/20/04), the City of North Tonawanda's 108 th birthday (4/24/1897), the 140 th anniversary of North Tonawanda's incorporation as a village (5/8/1865), the 125 th anniversary of the founding of our daily newspaper, now the Tonawanda News, the 100 th anniversary of Rotary International and the 88 th anniversary of the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas (1917), and the 120 th anniversary of First Baptist Church (founded at 190 Vandervoort Street in 1885) and its 40 th anniversary at its present home at 530 Meadow Drive. Representatives of the Tonawanda News, the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas, and First Baptist Church will share their history. Refreshments will include birthday cakes provided by Budwey's Bakery. Guests are invited to bring photos and other memorabilia from the city's or their family's history to share at the event. Certificates of Gift forms will be available at the meeting for those wishing to make donations of any items for the Museum's collections as a birthday gift for North Tonawanda . Photos or printed material may also be loaned to the Museum for scanning and copying, with the originals to be returned to the owner if desired. Musical entertainment will be provided for the evening by the North Tonawanda Student Clarinet Trio, composed of North Tonawanda History Museum members and volunteers, Andrea Rosenburg, Grade 12, and Mathew Gebera, Grade 8, and Christine Gebera, their instructor. The “ North Tonawanda Ethnic Heritage Cookbook,” which was released for sale on January 6, has gone into a second printing, reported Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal. “Response has far exceeded our expectations,” she noted. “We took advance orders for some, but our office was humming when the cookbooks arrived and Hodgepodge and Barb's Sweet Treats sold out their starter supply the first day and called for replenishment,” she continued. “We have added additional outlets for this new supply.” Cynthia Fredricks coordinated the creation and compilation of the cookbook. The cookbook is the first in a series of heritage cookbooks to be published by the Museum. Recipes have already come in for inclusion in the second cookbook, “ North Tonawanda Families & Their Favorite Recipes.” Museum representatives request additional recipes from North Tonawanda residents and former residents, each including a brief biographical or historical note about the contributing family or individual. Cookbooks are now available at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street , at Hodgepodge, 72 Webster Street , Barb's Sweet Treats, 238 Oliver Street , in the Mayor's office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue , and at the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, 15 Webster Street . The cookbooks are for sale at $6.69 including tax. Cookbooks are also available by mail from the Museum (include $3 for shipping and handling per cookbook). Tickets to the Historic Treasures Tour may be ordered by mail or be purchased at the Museum, at Hodgepodge, Barb's Sweet Treats, the Mayor's office, the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, and at Lovin' Life, 305 Robinson Street . Call 213-0554 or 692-2681 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com . Museum hours for 2005 are Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. ; Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. ; Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. ; and Fridays 9 to noon . Registrations will be accepted for the May 21 bus trip to the Niagara County Historical Society in Lockport . The event will be a joint participation in Preservation Month 2005 by the two historical organizations, with the Society hosting Museum guests. Attendees will meet at the Museum at 314 Oliver Street at 9 a.m. Parking will be available in the lot behind Ascension Church 's Monsignor Szabo Hall on Vandervoort Street between Robinson and Keil. The bus will leave 314 Oliver Street at 9:30 a.m. Attendees will tour the five historic homes on the Historical Society campus and pay a visit to the Outwater Emporium Gift Shop. The bus will leave at 12:30 for a trip to Pane's Restaurant for a 1:15 p.m. luncheon. The bus will drop attendees off at either the Monsignor Szabo Hall parking lot or at the Museum. A $25 advance registration is required, which includes the bus trip, parking, admission, and the luncheon. Registrations will also be accepted for the Museum's First Annual Meeting to be held on Thursday, June 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Elks Club Hall, 20 Main Street . Come celebrate with us, learn of our first year's accomplishments and plans for the future, and help us honor those wonderful Honorary Charter Life Members, Advisory Committee members, and our special volunteers who have helped us create the North Tonawanda History Museum . Advance registration required: reception with cash bar; $15 each; $25 couple.
NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointmen FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED BY NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Judith Mittiga, Volunteer Coordinator for the all-volunteer North Tonawanda History Museum announces a recruitment campaign for additional volunteers, both for year-round activities or summer events. Volunteers are now being actively recruited to serve in a wide variety of capacities. Those with a free hour or two occasionally can be used also, but current volunteer opportunities include: Oral History Program – individuals to be trained to interview senior citizens using a camcorder or digital voice recorder, requires travel to the homes of the individuals and repeat trips for each interviewee; individuals with experience in duplicating and/or editing of digital materials. Especially desired are high school students and Eagle Scout candidates to do the interviewing and recording. Historic Treasures Tour – individuals to serve as hosts/hostesses or assistants for the July 31 walking/driving tour of ten historic homes, five historic church buildings, and four additional historic sites; volunteers to assist in the planning and preparations phase from now until that date. Historic Gardens Contest, Lumber City Scavenger Hunt – individuals who enjoy meeting people, need to contact people by phone, email, or in person. From now through end of July. North Tonawanda Haunted History Ghost Walks - October 14, 21, and 28. The Museum will be working in collaboration with Mason Winfield in producing the first such walks for North Tonawanda . Students, classes, youth groups, scouting groups, etc., are also needed to develop a Frights & Sights Stroll Through the Haunted Park in the City's Botanical Gardens. Creation of skits, scenery, and actual performances desired. Teachers and other individuals with experience putting on skits, creating scenery, costume makers, assistants of all kinds needed. Seaway Trail Walks – June through end of September, Wednesday afternoons from 5 to 6:30 p.m. ; training provided to be guides/docents. Will also be useful for hosting walks as field trips for school children. Writers of history, researchers – many, many interesting roles possible, depending on your interest and experience. Graphics help: Need individual(s) to layout and create flyers and other promotional materials about Museum activities and events. Summer interns: High school or middle school students wishing to learn and perform scanning; participate in cataloguing and other phases of Museum collections work. Call 213-0554 or 692-2681 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com .NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment North Tonawanda History Museum is community lead for Doors Open Niagara 2005 Local Sites Participating to Showcase Historically and/or architecturally Significant Sites in the three Tonawandas The North Tonawanda History Museum has accepted the responsibility of serving as community lead for the Tonawandas' area for Doors Open Niagara 2005. They are responsible for North Tonawanda , the City of Tonawanda , and the Town of Tonawanda . This year's theme is “The Art of Architecture” and will include a photographic contest. A 2-day (weekend) annual event in October (October 15 & 16 this year), Doors Open Niagara is a premier bi-national tourism event that draws diverse cultural, heritage and tourism entities together to create a compelling opportunity for visitors to experience a unique sense of place through the architecturally and historically significant offerings of the bi-national Niagara region. It is primarily a tourism initiative designed to encourage cross border visitation and create an infrastructure of visitor ready sites in preparation for future cultural tourism initiatives. More than a hundred heritage sites in Erie and Niagara Counties and the Niagara Region of Ontario, welcome visitors admission-free, for one weekend in October. The inspiration for Doors Open Niagara had its origins in France where the first Doors Open event (La Journee Portes Ouvertes) took place in 1984. The idea soon spread to neighboring countries, including the Netherlands , Sweden , the Republic of Ireland , Belgium and Scotland . In 1991, these events in 40 European countries were united as European Heritage Days—a celebration of heritage and architecturally significant sites—at the initiative of the Council of Europe. In 1998, 19 million visitors participated. More recently, Sydney , Australia , and Rio de Janeiro , Brazil , have launched their own Doors Open events. In 2000, Toronto , Canada , initiated the first North American Doors Open. This first time event drew 70,000 visitors to 96 buildings throughout the City of Toronto . Doors Open Niagara works on the premise of “Be a Tourist in Your Own Backyard” by providing an opportunity for residents of Western New York and Southern Ontario to be more aware of their built and cultural heritage, with free access to buildings of architectural, historic and/or decorative value. In the past three years, participation has steadily grown from 73 sites and 12,000 attendees in 2002 to over one hundred sites and over 25,000 attendees in 2004. The North Tonawanda History Museum was recognized as one of the four Niagara County community leads for having engaged in efforts to preserve and promote the community's historical and architectural offerings. As community lead, the Museum will be the key advocate in the Tonawandas area for the Doors Open Niagara project, will serve as liaison between participating sites and the Site Trainer and Steering Committee of the Doors Open Niagara Project. The Museum will be responsible for distribution of promotional and teaching materials to sites in the Tonawandas and will assist I identifying and helping to prepare new sites for participation. Museum representatives will work closely with participating sites and other stakeholders to create a rich and inviting community experience. The community benefits by participating by creating new audiences for their historical and cultural venues, drawing potential supporters (members, donors, volunteers) to the area, and, although it is a free event, sites may plan to incorporate gift shop sales, donation boxes, raffles or other fund raising events into the weekend plans. The success of Doors Open Niagara depends on each community's willingness to “take ownership” of the event. The hosts at each site must be ready and willing to deliver a warm welcome when Doors Open visitors arrive at their door. Whether sites decide to station staff throughout the site as informal interpreters or organize more formal guided tours, you are responsible for the lasting impression created during this event. It is a community relations/community outreach opportunity. Tonawandas area organization operating in historic structures and individuals and businesses in historic structures area eligible to participate. Sites do not have to be routinely open to the public to participate in opening the doors to their buildings for this weekend event. No admission fees may be charged. Expecting to participate in the Tonawandas are Ascension Church, First United Methodist Church, the Carnegie Art Center, the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, the North Tonawanda History Museum, the Riviera Theatre, the Railroad Museum, and the YWCA of the Tonawandas, all in North Tonawanda; the Historical Society of the Tonawandas and the Benjamin Long Homestead in the City of Tonawanda; and the Town of Tonawanda-Kenmore Historical Society Museum in the Town of Tonawanda. Businesses in the Tonawandas are asked to be prepared to welcome the visitors during the weekend as well. Materials will be made available to event planners to promote the entire community along with the sites. The Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas and the Kenmore-Tonawanda Chamber of Commerce have been invited to assist in promoting the weekend, to maximize its benefit to the three Tonawandas. For further information or to be placed on the contact list for materials distribution, call the Museum at 213-0554 or 692-2681 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com . Museum hours for 2005 are Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. ; Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. ; Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. ; and Fridays 9 to noon.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street - Mailing Address: 195 Goundry Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment For Immediate Release The North Tonawanda History Museum has been approved for a Speakers in the Humanities Award from the New York Council for the Humanities. The award will make it possible for the museum to feature Dr. Emilese Aleandri in its December 17 th Italian Christmas program. Dr. Aleandri will tell the story of “the Legend of LaBefana and the Feast of the Epiphany.” This program will be free and open to the general public and will be of interest to all age groups. It will be held in the DeGraff Community Center , 139 Division Street, North Tonawanda , beginning at 1 p.m. The event will be North Tonawanda History Museum 's second Ethnic Christmas program. The new museum presented a Polish Christmas program in December 2004. Dr. Aleandri is Artisitc Director of Frizzi & Lazzi The Olde Time Italian-American Music & Theatre Company in New York City.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Museum Announces Changes in Board Lineup The Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum at its March 8, 2005 , meeting, named Betty A. Brandon President-Elect and Judith M. Mittiga Treasurer-Elect. Cynthia Fredricks, President of the Board of Trustees since January 1, 2005 , and Vice President since May 2004, is moving out of town later this year. Brandon, who serves as Treasurer, will monitor the responsibilities of the President and assume the role when Fredricks leaves the area. Mittiga will monitor the responsibilities of the Treasurer and assume the role when Brandon becomes President. Fredricks appointed Brandon and Mittiga co-chairs of the Community Relations Committee, replacing Fredricks in that capacity. Brandon continues as chair of the Historic Treasures Tour and Mittiga continues as chair of the Lumber City Scavenger Hunt. Fredricks will continue as a Trustee through the use of available technology which the Museum has made a central part of its operations from its inception. Fredricks will chair the Heritage Cookbook Committee and will serve on the Nominating & Governance Committee, assisting especially with the completion of the Museum's policies and procedures manual for all phases of operations. Barbara Wickman, owner of Barb's Sweet Treats and Jack's Trains, was appointed to the Board of Trustees and named Vice President. Thomas A. Brick, who has served on the Board of Trustees, was named to the Advisory Committee. Brick is a member of the Finance Committee. Christine P. Gebera, volunteer Technological Cataloguing & Collections Management Coordinator, was also appointed chair of the Collections Committee by Fredricks. Gebera is currently training a number of Museum volunteers in the use of the Museum's collection management software.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Museum Announces Charter Honorary Life Members The Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum at its March 8, 2005 , meeting, named six North Tonawanda residents Charter Honorary Life Members for their significant contributions to the Museum in its first year of existence: Cynthia Fredricks, Betty A. Brandon, Judith M. Mittiga, Sarah E. Walter, Michael Mroczka, and Thomas A. Brick. The Charter Honorary Life Members will be recognized for their contributions at the Museum's Annual Meeting on June 16. NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street - Mailing Address: 195 Goundry Street (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Diane Meholick, Author of “Painting Katherine,” to be present for book sale and signing; Miss Western New York to greet participants of North Tonawanda Historic Treasures Tour and Towpath Tea The North Tonawanda History Museum 's first bi-annual North Tonawanda Historic Treasures Tour , the first of which will be held on Sunday, July 31, 2005, which has RealtyUSA as the Major Sponsor, is already attracting visitors to North Tonawanda . “Advance sales began in November, with people driving in from East Aurora, Orchard Park, Williamsville, West Seneca, Cheektowaga, Niagara Falls, Grand Island, as well as Kenmore and the Tonawandas to our Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street,” said Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal. The event will include a 2-1/2 mile walking and/or driving tour of historic homes and other historic structures in the city. Ten of North Tonawanda 's most fabulously interesting homes, five historical church buildings, two registered historic sites (the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum and the Carnegie Arts Center building), the Riviera Theatre, and the Railroad Museum will be included. Tour ticket holders may select the sites they wish to visit on this tour, hopefully wishing to return in 2007 to visit those that time didn't permit them to visit in 2005. Vintage automobiles will be stationed in front of each location as site markers to facilitate location of the sites by attendees. Tony LaNasa is assisting Museum representatives in coordinating the automobiles. Horse-drawn Cinderella carriage rides, similar to those used by the wealthy residents of the City in the late 1800's and early 1900's, will be available during the event from Pinewoods Park to the Goundry Street homes and back to the park. Photos of those taking carriage rides may also be purchased as mementos. Rides will be provided by Double T Ranch of East Bethany and will be open to the public during the event, but those holding tickets to the Historic Treasures Tour will be given precedence. Non-ticket holders' ride fees will be $5 for adults, $3 for children, $10 for a family of 4 plus $1 for each additional family member. Diane Meholick, author of “A Switch in Time,” and “Painting Katherine,” will be present in Pinewoods Park with copies of “Painting Katherine” for sale and signing. Meholick grew up in North Tonawanda . The novel is about Kate Vermay, who inherits an old North Tonawanda Victorian home from her grandmother, Katherine Malloy, and her husband, Vincent, who partners with others to build a grand theatre in North Tonawanda . Miss Western New York 2005, Lindsay Pratt, a North Tonawanda resident, will greet tour participants at the registration area of Pinewoods Park , as well as those participating in the Towpath Tea. The Shawnee Country Barns Co-Op will provide antiques for the event. Items to be displayed by Co-Op members in the historic homes included in the Tour may be purchased by attendees. Décor items from Hodgepodge and personal photography by Michael Mroczka will also be displayed in some of the homes. Martin Wachadlo, an architectural historian, is assisting Museum event planners in detailing the architectural histories of the homes. The event will also include a Towpath Tea in the pavilion in historic Pinewoods Park , presented by Mr.& Mrs. Catering. The tea is not included in the ticket price for the Tour, and it will be open to the public as well as to ticket holders. The tea will include a sampling of typical fare from the late 1800's to early 1900's as well as more modern fare. Attendees will pay for their individual choice of food and beverage purchases. “Yesterday's News,” Bruce Trombley and Dennis LaFontaine, of Mohawk, New York, folk singers who perform Erie Canal folk songs and other New York State folk songs, will return to North Tonawanda for the event and will perform throughout the day in the park for the benefit of those attending the Towpath Tea and other area residents as well as tour participants. “Yesterday's News” performed for the Museum in May 2004 in their “Antiques & Things: Auction & Antique Appraisal & Concert” event in the Buffalo Suzuki Strings Musical Arts Center . A courtesy shuttle for elderly or others who find walking between sites a problem and for those not wishing to park and re-park their cars, will also be available, with two special new vans and drivers provided by Skill Buick of Tonawanda for the day's event. Members of the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas will assist Museum representatives as volunteers for the event, as will Greg Burt and Boy Scout Troop 58 from St. Christopher's Church. Hours for the event will be: Registration in historic Pinewoods Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. ; Historic Treasures Tour (admission by ticket only) from noon to 5 p.m. , carriage rides and Towpath Tea from noon to 7 p.m. Tickets may be ordered for $18 each or $15 for members of the North Tonawanda History Museum . To include a prepaid a carriage ride with the tour ticket, an additional $5 should be included. A maximum of 500 tickets will be sold for the tour. A keepsake guidebook will be included in the ticket price. The guidebooks will be distributed to ticket holders at a registration table in Pinewoods Park from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. the day of the event. Tickets are available at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street, open Mondays 5 to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 1 to 5 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , and Fridays 9 to noon; or at Hodgepodge at 72 Webster Street, Barb's Sweet Treats at 238 Oliver Street, Lovin' Life, 305 Robinson Street, the Mayor's Office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue, or the offices of the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas at 15 Webster Street. To order tickets by mail, send check or money order to the North Tonawanda History Museum , 314 Oliver Street , North Tonawanda , NY 14120 . North Tonawanda businesses wishing to advertise in the guidebook are invited to contact the Museum immediately at 213-0554 or 692-2681 or by email at nthistorymuseum@aol.com . Betty Brandon is chairing this event.
NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street - Mailing Address: 195 Goundry Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19 th and early 20 th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19 th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment The North Tonawanda History Museum 's Community Relations Committee is taking orders for flower bulbs from Dutch Gardens for spring planting in conjunction with its first annual Historic Gardens Contest . Bulbs available are gladioli, Erlicher summer daffodils, Stella D'Oro daylilies, Asiatic lilies, Blue Star sea holly, Toad lilies, Double begonias, Purple liatris, Montbretias, and Oriental lilies, and a special summer garden collection of over 40 bulbs. Prices range from $10 - $15 for individual bulb collections and $20 for the Summer Garden collection. The North Tonawanda History Museum is sponsoring its first annual citywide Historic Gardens Contest , for the summer of 2005. Collaborating with museum representatives on the contest is the Tonawanda News columnist known as the Towpath Tiller. The museum will provide a map of the locations of those gardens registered to participate in the contest so that residents and visitors to North Tonawanda may view the gardens. Maps will be available at a variety of locations throughout the city during July and August. All gardens participating must be in the front yards so that older or disabled visitors may view them from their vehicles. Individuals wishing to participate in a separate category for rear or side gardens must allow access to the gardens by visitors on Sunday afternoons during July and August. Neighborhood groups, civic organizations, businesses, and individuals are invited to participate in promoting gardens of all types to showcase our city as a garden city in 2005. Only those gardens with a historical flavor or theme will be eligible to be included in the Historic Gardens Contest , but it is hoped that people will come to see our entire city full of flowers, not just those participating in the Historic Gardens Contest. Eligibility requirements and other contest information are included in the contest application form. Applications are available at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street , at Hodgepodge, 72 Webster Street ; at the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, 15 Webster Street ; and in the City Clerk's office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue . Winners will be announced during Canal Fest week in July. Museum volunteers will be taking orders for the bulbs during February, March, and early April, with delivery of bulbs in early May. For information on ordering, call 213-0554 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com .NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19 th and early 20 th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19 th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment For Immediate Release North Tonawanda History Museum Sponsoring Garden Contest; Residents Requested To Plan Now; Business Scavenger Hunt also planned. The North Tonawanda History Museum is sponsoring its first annual citywide Historic Gardens Contest , for the summer of 2005. Collaborating with museum representatives on the contest is the Tonawanda News columnist known as the Towpath Tiller. The museum will provide a map of the locations of those gardens registered to participate in the contest so that residents and visitors to North Tonawanda may view the gardens. Maps will be available at a variety of locations throughout the city during July and August. All gardens participating must be in the front yards so that older or disabled visitors may view them from their vehicles. Individuals wishing to participate in a separate category for rear or side gardens must allow access to the gardens by visitors on Sunday afternoons during July and August. Neighborhood groups, civic organizations, businesses, and individuals are invited to participate in promoting gardens of all types to showcase our city as a garden city in 2005. Only those gardens with a historical flavor or theme will be eligible to be included in the Historic Gardens Contest , but it is hoped that people will come to see our entire city full of flowers, not just those participating in the Historic Gardens Contest. Eligibility requirements and other contest information are included in the contest application form. Applications are available at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street , at Hodgepodge, 72 Webster Street ; at the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, 15 Webster Street ; and in the City Clerk's office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue . Winners will be announced during Canal Fest week in July. The Museum's first annual Lumber City Scavenger Hunt is planned for May, June, and July 2005, with the winning entries selected during the week following Canal Fest. The Board of Trustees hopes the Lumber City Scavenger Hunt will encourage residents and non-residents to visit North Tonawanda 's wonderful assortment of businesses and cultural and other attractions. Scavenger Hunters must visit each participating business, cultural attraction, or other venue in order to obtain the answer to a question about that site or a product sold or on display there on the questionnaire/entry blank. Completed entry blanks will be reviewed for accuracy of answers and those with the most correct answers will become part of the final drawing for selection of winners. Entry blanks with questions will be available by May 1, 2005, in a variety of locations throughout the city and should be turned in before August 5, 2005. Winners will be announced and prizes awarded on August 19, 2005 . Judy Mittiga is coordinating the Lumber City Scavenger Hunt. For information, call 213-0554 or 692-2681 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com . The Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street are now open Mondays 5 to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , and Fridays 9 to noon.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 - 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org 2005 Hours : Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. ; Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. ; Fridays 9 to noon Seaway Trail Walks – Wednesdays 5 to 6:30 p.m. from the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum
Seaway Trail Walks – North Tonawanda , New York – Wednesdays, 5 – 6:30 p.m. , June 8 through September 28. $8 adults, $4 children under 12, $6 ea. in groups of 15 or more. Hosted by the North Tonawanda History Museum . Walking tours of historic North Tonawanda , a city whose location at the juncture of the historic Erie Canal with the mighty Niagara River made it a significant industrial center in the 19 th and early 20 th centuries. Learn about the rich immigrant heritage of “the Lumber Capital of the World,” and see the homes of the lumber barons and other prominent individuals in the city's history. Two rotating walking tours: North Tonawanda 's Industrial Heritage: June 8, 22; July 6, 20; August 3, 17, 31; September 14, 28. North Tonawanda 's Historic Homes: June 15, 29; July 13, 27; August 10, 24, September 7, 21. Tours begin and end in the parking lot of the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum , 180 Thompson Street (admission extra, open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily) or visit the Historic DowNTown North Tonawanda shopping district, a unique eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. Plan to stay after the walking tour for a free concert in Gateway Park on the banks of the historic Erie Canal . Visit the North Tonawanda History Museum at 314 Oliver Street Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , or Fridays 9 to noon . Also open by appointment. Call 716-213-0554 or 716-692-2681 for further information. North Tonawanda Haunted History Ghost Walks , presented by Mason Winfield and hosted by the North Tonawanda History Museum, 90-minute walking tours of North Tonawanda, beginning at 7 p.m. at 314 Oliver Street, Friday, July 15, Saturday, July 16, Friday, July 22, and Saturday, July 23; $10 adults, $5 kids 7-11, under 7 free. Part of Canal Fest of the Tonawandas week activities. Historic Treasures Tour 2005 presented by the North Tonawanda History Museum and RealtyUSA - July 31 – Noon to 5 p.m. Walking/driving tour of ten historic homes, five historic church buidings, and four other historic sites. Includes a Cinderella carriage ride, a Towpath Tea, and Erie Canal music by Yesterday's News in Historic Pinewoods Park . Tour only available by pre-purchased tickets. Cinderella arriage rides presented by Double T Ranch may be pre-purchased but will be open to the public as well, with pre-paid ticket holders taking precedence; Towpath Tea presented by Mr. & Mrs. Catering will offer an a la carte menu. Skill Buick will provide two new special courtesy shuttle vans for those wishing to avoid parking and re-parking their cars. Tickets are $18 for the tour; $5 additional for a pre-paid carriage ride. Photos may be purchased as well of riders in the carriage. Towpath Tea and Erie Canal music in historic Pinewoods Park will be open to the public. Fridays, September 16 through October 28 - North Tonawanda Haunted History Ghost Walks, presented by Mason Winfield and hosted by the North Tonawanda History Museum – 90-minute walking tours of North Tonawanda , beginning at 7 p.m. at 314 Oliver Street : History, legend, architecture, parapsychology, and ghosts! $10 adults, $5 kids 7-11, under 7 free. NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19 th and early 20 th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19 th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment The North Tonawanda History Museum has been notified that its Director, Donna Zellner Neal, has been nominated in the Senior category for the United Ways of Western New York 2005 Community Hero Awards: Shining the Light on Volunteer Achievement. The awards ceremony will be part of a breakfast held on Tuesday, April 19, beginning at 8:30 a.m. in the Grand Ballroom of the Buffalo Convention Center . Neal was nominated by Cynthia Fredricks, President of the Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum and Senator George D. Maziarz, a Charter Honorary Life Member of the new museum. In her nomination, Fredricks wrote: “Mrs. Neal accepted a volunteer assignment to lead a steering committee in September 2003 to create a new museum of the history of North Tonawanda . She assembled a grassroots group of residents and has coordinated their rapid transformation into a chartered museum (Charter obtained in April 2004), with 501(c)(3) status in place. Donated facilities, furniture and equipment were obtained through her efforts to be able to open a museum in September 2004 as a startup location. She is coordinating the vision of our permanent home and has worked tirelessly to gather qualified and dedicated volunteers to staff the museum, put together events and regular programs, create a museum online, and set up all the necessary policies, procedures, and other details. In constant pain and with physical limitations you rarely are aware of, she has been the catalyst, driving force, the spark that ignited a small city into sharing in the passion for their history.” Another Charter Honorary Life Member of the Museum, Ken Mountain , who is now a Texas resident, submitted the following “second” to the nominations: “I commend the United Way for the selection of Ms. Donna Zellner Neal as a candidate for the 2005 Community Hero Senior Award. I heartily second that nomination. Ms. Neal has been the driving force that has created the North Tonawanda History Museum . Such an institution is so very important to chronicle from whence we came and to intelligently define where we are going as a people. Ms. Neal recognized the need to collect and preserve the history of our community (verbal, folk, and formally documented). She knows that we owe a debt to both our ancestors and our progeny to create the bridges that ensure past mistakes are not repeated and that future promises can be realized. Unselfishly, Ms. Neal took the germ of this idea and developed an entity that will serve the historical needs in perpetuity. Almost single-handedly, Ms. Neal navigated through endless bureaucracy and legal requirements necessary to create the museum. Along the way, she assembled like-thinking individuals and collectively they formed the management structure of the fledgling museum. Entities like museums, libraries, historical societies, etc. don't just “happen”. They require dedication, attention to detail, nourishing, and above all, a great deal of hard work. Ms. Neal, a semi-disabled individual, has demonstrated a deep commitment altruistically. Using personal funds (almost exclusively), she directed the accomplishments of an incredible amount of foundational work to establish the North Tonawanda History Museum . A partial listing of her first year achievements is attached. I heartily endorse your choice of Ms. Neal as a candidate for the 2005 Community Hero Seniors Award. I further urge your Selection Committee to find in favor of this enthusiastic, Mother, Grandmother, and civic worker, not to mention, a sanctuary for lost and abandoned dogs and kitties. Thank you for this opportunity to endorse Ms. Neal for this prestigious award. Sincerely, Ken Mountain Charter Member, North Tonawanda History Museum kelco@neto.com
Wrote or directed the writing of the following: Charter - The most foundational document of the organization. Mission Statement - The goals, methods, functional operations are defined. It is the most referenced document of the organization.
Assembled a group of competent, reputable, credentialed individuals to act as trustees and advisors. Developed Political Support at various levels of government. Achieved N.Y. Regents certification as a museum. Established Intern Program. Negotiated reciprocal resource sharing agreements, area-wide, with like-minded museums and historical societies. Directed development of a the website ( www.nthistorymuseum.org ) Created and edited a weekly newspaper column in the Tonawanda News. The column is named “Remembering Yesteryear”. Arranged for organizational participation in local festivals and events. Sponsored youth art and design competition. Established a cooperative North Tonawanda promotional program in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce. Initiated fund raising projects to generate sustaining funds. The Cookbooks Project (first Cookbook published, second in pre-production/editing) is very successful. Conducts a monthly public meeting including various thematic presentations. Designed several walking tours of Historic North Tonawanda. These tours are designed to provide maximum exposure in walks ranging from brief to multi-mile.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM As a City Located on the Historic Erie Canal & Mighty Niagara River Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19 th and early 20 th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19 th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment ATTENTION: SUMMER INTERNS, YEAR-ROUND INTERNS (UNPAID), AND VOLUNTEERS SEEKING VOLUNEER WORK EXPERIENCE OR TO FULFILL COMMUNITY SERVICE REQUIREMENTS Wide variety of possibilities: Digital imaging, scanning, data entry using PastPerfect Museum Software, collections cataloguing, exhibit creation using digital images, videos, duplicating of videos and creation of CD's or DVD's of photos from scanned or digitally stored images, etc. Oral History Program – individuals to be trained to interview senior citizens using a camcorder or digital voice recorder, requires travel to the homes of the individuals and repeat trips for each interviewee; individuals with experience in duplicating and/or editing of digital materials. Especially desired are college and high school students and Eagle Scout candidates to do the interviewing and recording. Historic Treasures Tour – individuals to serve as hosts/hostesses or assistants for the July 31 walking/driving tour of ten historic homes, five historic church buildings, and four additional historic sites; volunteers to assist in the planning and preparations phase from now until that date. Historic Gardens Contest, Lumber City Scavenger Hunt – individuals who enjoy meeting people, need to contact people by phone, email, or in person. From now through end of July. North Tonawanda Haunted History Ghost Walks (Friday evenings probably September through October) and Frights & Sights Stroll Through the Haunted Park – Friday evenings October 14, 21, and 28. The Museum will be working in collaboration with Mason Winfield in producing the first such walks for North Tonawanda . Students, classes, youth groups, scouting groups, etc., are also needed to develop the Frights & Sights Stroll Through the Haunted Park in the City's Botanical Gardens. Creation of skits, scenery, and actual performances desired. Teachers and other individuals with experience putting on skits, creating scenery, costume makers, assistants of all kinds needed. College level students willing to coordinate with local teachers to develop participation and assist with planning also needed. Seaway Trail Walks – June through end of September, Wednesday afternoons from 5 to 6:30 p.m. ; training provided to be guides/docents. Will also be useful for hosting walks as field trips for school children. Writers of history, researchers – many, many interesting roles possible, depending on your interest and experience, including creation of supporting materials for Seaway Trail Walk and preparation for future books to be published. Graphics help: Need individual(s) to layout and create flyers and other promotional materials about Museum activities and events. NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Museum to present Irish Heritage Night; North Tonawanda 's Birthday Party; Preservation Month Trip to County Historical Society; First Annual Meeting! The North Tonawanda History Museum 's March meeting,, which is free and open to the general public, will be an Irish Heritage Night on Thursday, March 17, in the DeGraff Community Center , 139 Division Street , North Tonawanda , beginning at 6:30 p.m. The evening will begin with a performance by students of The Woodgate-Lachut School of Irish Dance. Daniel Killian, former North Tonawanda Public Library Director, will then present: “Old Irish History. How the Irish Saved Civilization.” Refreshments will include Irish Soda Bread made by Barb's Sweet Treats from a recipe in the Museum's “ North Tonawanda Ethnic Heritage Cookbook” and scones prepared by Penny Creasey as served in the Hodgepodge Café. Parking is available behind the Center. Orders for Dutch Gardens flower bulbs for spring planting may be placed at the meeting. Applications forms for participation in the Historic Gardens Contest or the Future of our Past Logo Design Contest will be available as well. Cookbooks will be available for purchase at the meeting. Tickets for the July 31 Historic Treasures Tour of ten historic homes, five historic churches, and four other historic buildings will also be available at the meeting. The “ North Tonawanda Ethnic Heritage Cookbook,” which was released for sale on January 6, has gone into a second printing, reported Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal. “Response has far exceeded our expectations,” she noted. “We took advance orders for some, but our office was humming when the cookbooks arrived and Hodgepodge and Barb's Sweet Treats sold out their starter supply the first day and called for replenishment,” she continued. “We have added additional outlets for this new supply.” Cynthia Fredricks coordinated the creation and compilation of the cookbook. The cookbook is the first in a series of heritage cookbooks to be published by the Museum. Recipes have already come in for inclusion in the second cookbook, “ North Tonawanda Families & Their Favorite Recipes.” Museum representatives request additional recipes from North Tonawanda residents and former residents, each including a brief biographical or historical note about the contributing family or individual. Cookbooks are now available at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street , at Hodgepodge, 72 Webster Street , Barb's Sweet Treats, 238 Oliver Street , in the Mayor's office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue , and at the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, 15 Webster Street . The cookbooks are for sale at $6.69 including tax. Cookbooks are also available by mail from the Museum (include $3 for shipping and handling per cookbook). Tickets to the Historic Treasures Tour may be ordered by mail or be purchased at the Museum, at Hodgepodge, Barb's Sweet Treats, the Mayor's office, the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, and at Lovin' Life, 305 Robinson Street . Call 213-0554 or 692-2681 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com . Museum hours for 2005 are Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. ; Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. ; Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. ; and Fridays 9 to noon.NORTH TONAWANDA HISTORY MUSEUM Telling the Story of Our City's Rich Ethnic & Industrial Heritage Administrative Office: 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda , New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 or 692-2681 - e-mail: nthistorymuseum@aol.com website: www.nthistorymuseum.org A new museum of the rich immigrant heritage of North Tonawanda and its role as an important shipping and manufacturing center on the Historic Erie Canal and the Mighty Niagara River in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Known as the “Lumber Capital of the World” in the late 19th century. 2005 Office Hours: Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. , Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. , Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. , Fridays 9 to noon Also open by appointment Museum to present Irish Heritage Night The North Tonawanda History Museum 's March meeting,, which is free and open to the general public, will be an Irish Heritage Night on Thursday, March 17, in the DeGraff Community Center , 139 Division Street , North Tonawanda , beginning at 6:30 p.m. The evening will begin with a performance by students of The Woodgate-Lachut School of Irish Dance. Daniel Killian, former North Tonawanda Public Library Director, will then present: “Old Irish History. How the Irish Saved Civilization.” Refreshments will include Irish Soda Bread made by Barb's Sweet Treats from a recipe in the Museum's “ North Tonawanda Ethnic Heritage Cookbook” and scones prepared by Penny Creasey as served in the Hodgepodge Café. Parking is available behind the Center. Orders for Dutch Gardens flower bulbs for spring planting may be placed at the meeting. Applications forms for participation in the Historic Gardens Contest or the Future of our Past Logo Design Contest will be available as well. Cookbooks will be available for purchase at the meeting. Tickets for the July 31 Historic Treasures Tour of ten historic homes, five historic churches, and four other historic buildings will also be available at the meeting. The “ North Tonawanda Ethnic Heritage Cookbook,” which was released for sale on January 6, has gone into a second printing, reported Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal. “Response has far exceeded our expectations,” she noted. “We took advance orders for some, but our office was humming when the cookbooks arrived and Hodgepodge and Barb's Sweet Treats sold out their starter supply the first day and called for replenishment,” she continued. “We have added additional outlets for this new supply.” Cynthia Fredricks coordinated the creation and compilation of the cookbook. The cookbook is the first in a series of heritage cookbooks to be published by the Museum. Recipes have already come in for inclusion in the second cookbook, “ North Tonawanda Families & Their Favorite Recipes.” Museum representatives request additional recipes from North Tonawanda residents and former residents, each including a brief biographical or historical note about the contributing family or individual. Cookbooks are now available at the Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street , at Hodgepodge, 72 Webster Street , Barb's Sweet Treats, 238 Oliver Street , in the Mayor's office at City Hall, 216 Payne Avenue , and at the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, 15 Webster Street . The cookbooks are for sale at $6.69 including tax. Cookbooks are also available by mail from the Museum (include $3 for shipping and handling per cookbook). Tickets to the Historic Treasures Tour may be ordered by mail or be purchased at the Museum, at Hodgepodge, Barb's Sweet Treats, the Mayor's office, the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas, and at Lovin' Life, 305 Robinson Street . Call 213-0554 or 692-2681 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com . Museum hours for 2005 are Mondays 5 to 9 p.m. ; Tuesdays 1 to 9 p.m. ; Thursdays 9 to 5 p.m. ; and Fridays 9 to noon . Advance notice is given as well to the community of the April meeting: North Tonawanda's Birthday Party , to begin at 6 p.m. on Monday, April 18 also in the DeGraff Community Center , 139 Division Street . Come celebrate the 1 st anniversary of the North Tonawanda History Museum Charter (4/20/04), the City of North Tonawanda's 108 th birthday (4/24/1897), the 140 th anniversary of North Tonawanda's incorporation as a village (5/8/1865), the 125 th anniversary of the founding of our daily newspaper, now the Tonawanda News, the 100 th anniversary of Rotary International and the 88 th anniversary of the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas (1917), and the 120 th anniversary of First Baptist Church (founded at 190 Vandervoort Street in 1885) and its 40 th anniversary at its present home at 530 Meadow Drive. Representatives of the Tonawanda News, the Rotary Club of the Tonawandas, and First Baptist Church will share their history. Refreshments will include birthday cakes provided by Budwey's Bakery. Guests are invited to bring photos and other memorabilia from the city's or their family's history to share at the event. Certificates of Gift forms will be available at the meeting for those wishing to make donations of any items for the Museum's collections as a birthday gift for North Tonawanda . Photos or printed material may also be loaned to the Museum for scanning and copying, with the originals to be returned to the owner if desired. Registrations will be accepted at both meetings for the May 21 bus trip to the Niagara County Historical Society in Lockport . The event will be a joint participation in Preservation Month 2005 by the two historical organizations, with the Society hosting Museum guests. Attendees will meet at the Museum at 314 Oliver Street at 9 a.m. Parking will be available in the lot behind Ascension Church 's Monsignor Szabo Hall on Vandervoort Street between Robinson and Keil. The bus will leave 314 Oliver Street at 9:30 a.m. Attendees will tour the five historic homes on the Historical Society campus and pay a visit to the Outwater Emporium Gift Shop. The bus will leave at 12:30 for a trip to Pane's Restaurant for a 1:15 p.m. luncheon. The bus will drop attendees off at either the Monsignor Szabo Hall parking lot or at the Museum. A $25 advance registration is required, which includes the bus trip, parking, admission, and the luncheon. Registrations will also begin for the Museum's First Annual Meeting to be held on Thursday, June 16, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the Elks Club Hall, 20 Main Street . Come celebrate with us, learn of our first year's accomplishments and plans for the future, and help us honor those wonderful Honorary Charter Life Members and our special volunteers who have helped us create the North Tonawanda History Museum . Advance registration required: reception with cash bar; $15 each; $25 couple. |
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© 2005 North Tonawanda History Museum |
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