History of the Museum / News Release Archive - June 2006 * 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
North Tonawanda History Museum is community lead for Doors Open Niagara 2006 The North Tonawanda History Museum has accepted the responsibility for its second year of serving as community lead for the Tonawandas’ area for Doors Open Niagara 2006. They are responsible for coordinating participating sites in North Tonawanda, the City of Tonawanda, the Town of Tonawanda (including the Village of Kenmore), and the Town of Wheatfield. A 2-day event in October (October 14 & 15 this year), Doors Open Niagara is a bi-national annual 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 Niagaras’ 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. As community lead, the Museum is the key advocate in the three Tonawandas and Wheatfield for the Doors Open Niagara project, and serves as liaison between participating sites and the site trainer and steering committee of the Doors Open Niagara Project. The Museum is responsible for distribution of promotional and teaching materials to its participating sites and will assist in 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. A focus of the local participating sites will be to promote this area as a tourist destination, not a scattered collection of individual sites, and to also involve area businesses in taking full advantage of the visitors to the sites that weekend who will be interested in nearby restaurants and shops. Last year’s event included more than 120 heritage sites and attractions which opened their doors free of charge and provided visitors with unique tours and behind-the-scenes access not available at any other time of the year. Participating sites include elegant residences and inns, churches containing magnificent stained glass windows, Industrial Age factories, municipal buildings, museums, schoolhouses, and sites that played a role in the Underground Railroad. A wide variety of architectural styles are represented including 18th and early 19th century stone and log structures, homes and buildings crafted in the Victorian, Neo-Classical, Art Deco, Italianate and Greek Revival styles, and churches of Romanesque and Gothic Revival design. Many of the sites in both the U.S. and Canada are registered as National Historic landmarks. “The Art of Architecture” is the theme of this year’s DOORS OPEN NIAGARA, with a special emphasis on discovering art in and around historically and architecturally significant sites. Among the types of art visitors can encounter are:
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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
Museum recognizes Founders Circle Supporters The Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum will honor 18 individuals at their 2nd Annual Dinner & Meeting on Thursday, June 15, with a special certificate reading, “With deepest gratitude from all who hold North Tonawanda dear to their hearts, for your continuous support in time, effort, and financial assistance, for the years 2003-2006.” Receiving this recognition are: Stephen C. & Eleanor Ash, A. Daniel & Gail Bille, David & Donna Burgio, William M. Davignon, Senator George D. Maziarz, Kay Learned, Penny Creasey, Barbara Wickman, Carl P. Hoover, Lou and Joyce Santiago, and The Neals: Donna Zellner Neal, John Zellner Neal, and Priscilla Zellner Neal. A copy of the 2nd Annual Report of the Museum will be issued to each attendee. The report has been developed for this year by Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal and Webmaster John Zellner Neal, with the assistance of Stephanie Sadler, a SUNY Fredonia student, and Daniel Skrok, a SUNYAB student. Printing is by Pioneer Printers, Inc. The form 990 for 2005 is available for viewing on the Museum’s website at www.nthistorymuseum.org. The dinner and meeting will take place in the Hideaway Grille Banquet Room, 399 Division Street, with a cash bar beginning at 6 p.m., and sit down dinner at 7 p.m. Dinner is $25 or $45 for a couple. Dinner choices include roast sirloin, chicken cordon bleu, and pasta primavera. Registration may be made at the Museum, by mail to 314 Oliver Street, or through the Online Gift Shop on the Museum’s website. The Museum now accepts Master Card and Visa payments. The Board of Trustees will have copies of the Museum’s new publications on display at the dinner: “ North Tonawanda: The First 100 Years – 1797 – 1897” is a 12-page booklet which begins with the Holland Land Purchase in 1797 and summarizes the development and evolution as a municipality of the hamlet which became the City of North Tonawanda in 1897. It was created by the Museum in collaboration with John W. Percy, Town of Tonawanda Historian, and Charles Cederman, Town of Wheatfield Historian. What is now modern day North Tonawanda was originally part of both the Town of Tonawanda and the Town of Wheatfield prior to becoming a city in 1897. “ North Tonawanda: The Lumber City” is a 32-page book, designed as a self-guided walking & driving tour guide. This book is sponsored in part by the Seaway Trail Corporation and was financed in part with funds from the New York Council for the Humanities, a State affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities. Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal is the editor, Martin Wachadlo served as architectural historian, and maps were provided by the North Tonawanda Engineering Department. The booklet contains 81 stopping points, but hundreds of actual sites are included in the format. The focus of the book is on the history of North Tonawanda from the Holland Land Purchase in 1797 through the present. The thumbnail descriptions are meant to permit the reader to take a leisurely stroll or drive on a number of occasions, observing the locations at which North Tonawanda’s history took place. As of June 15, “ North Tonawanda Historic Gardens Tour 2006” will also be available. The publication is a guide with maps to 32 historic sites and gardens in the city. The self-guided tour runs from June 15 to August 31. “It is our sincere hope that these publications will prove useful both to our residents and to visitors to our city and to teachers in North Tonawanda schools wishing to use them as a tool in their local history focus,” noted Paula Belair, Education Committee Chair. An additional publication, “The Rand Family Left a Lasting Imprint on North Tonawanda—and the World!” will be available in coming weeks as well. The booklet is edited by Donna Zellner Neal, with layout and design by John P. Zellner Neal. All four books are available for a $2 each donation at the Museum at 314 Oliver Street. They may also be purchased at the North Tonawanda Public Library, the Mayor’s Office in City Hall, Hodgepodge at 72 Webster Street, and Lovin’ Life at 305 Robinson Street. Additional sites may be announced in the future as well. All Museum publications are available through the Museum’s online gift shop as well at www.nthistorymuseum.org. All books are published by North Tonawanda’s Pioneer Printers, Inc. Quantities of all four publications will be distributed to social studies teachers in the North Tonawanda City School District by the Museum. Copies are also donated to the North Tonawanda Public Library for its reference library. The Museum also announces it has obtained quantities of a valuable resource for those seeking historical information on their homes. “House Histories: A Guide to Tracing the Genealogy of Your Home” by Sally Light is available at the Museum or through its online gift shop at www.nthistorymuseum.org. The book has been recommended by the American Library Association, as “a good, practical guide to dating and documenting a house,” and is highly recommended by the Preservation League of New York State, as well as North Tonawanda History Museum representatives. It is an excellent aid for owners of older homes, preservationists, residential real estate brokers, and others with questions about the origins, styles, materials, past owners of and events surround old houses.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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Museum Announces Summer Events Continuing their focus on what members describe as, “turning the entire city into their museum,” the North Tonawanda History Museum’s Board of Trustees announces a full summer schedule. The actual existing museum at 314 Oliver Street will be open normal hours except for Canal Fest week. Museum hours are Monday and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday 9 a.m. to noon. For Canal Fest, the Museum will close at noon on Friday, July 14, and reopen at 9 a.m. on Monday, July 24. The Museum Online is available 24 hours a day at www.nthistorymuseum.org. Museum volunteers will respond within 24 hours to all phone and e-mail messages during the week. The Museum’s focus for the summer will be on taking the City’s history to the community through events and activities based on historical themes. Sixteen weeks of North Tonawanda Seaway Trail Walks began Wednesday, June 7, and continue through September 27, with walks beginning and ending at Project Pride Way on the west side of Webster Street across from the Historic Riviera Theatre every Wednesday. The walks begin at 6 p.m. and last 90-minutes. This year’s walks are co-sponsored by Seaway Trail, Inc., and the Landmark Society of the Niagara Frontier. Fees apply. Beginning June 15 and continuing through August 31, the Museum is sponsoring its 2nd Annual North Tonawanda Historic Gardens Tour. The tour, a self-guided one based on a printed booklet containing maps and descriptions, includes 32 sites with history and gardens as the focus. Most gardens and historical sites can be visited at your convenience. The self-guided booklets will be available for a $2 donation at the Museum, the Mayor’s office in City Hall, the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas at 15 Webster Street, Hodgepodge at 72 Webster Street, Lovin’ Life at 305 Robinson Street, and the North Tonawanda Public Library at 505 Meadow Drive. Canal Fest week will be busy for the now-2-1/2 year old organization, including a booth on the Canal Fest campus from July 16-23. In addition to gourmet coffees and hot chocolate, donuts, cookies, and fancy dessert cakes, the Museum will offer its publications for sale at the booth, including self-guided walking/driving tour books of historical North Tonawanda. During Canal Fest week, the Museum will also host two additional Seaway Trail Walks, one beginning at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 18 and one beginning at 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 20. This year, the Museum is also sponsoring the visit by the historic Tugboat Urger. The tugboat “Urger is the flagship of the fleet of vessels operated by the New York State Canal Corporation on the 524-mile Canal System. The Urger will be docked under the Delaware Street bridge and can be accessed from the Tonawanda side of the Canal bank or from the stairs on the Delaware Street bridge. Museum greeters will be present to provide information to visitors on things to do and see in the community throughout the year. Built in 1901 in Ferrysburg, Michigan, this venerable tug is one of the oldest working vessels in the country still afloat. Originally built for use as a commercial shipping vessel, the “Urger” was originally christened the “Henry J. Dombos,” after a prominent Michigan merchant. She was described in the Detroit Free Press as the “finest fishing boat in the local fishing fleet.” In the early 1920’s, the tub was sold, renamed the “Urger,” and entered the New York State Canal fleet. Stationed in Waterford, the “Urger” served more than 60 years hauling machinery, dredges, and scows on the Erie and Champlain Canals until she was retired from service in the 1980’s. In 1991, the “Urger” was called back into service with a new mission. She now serves as the focal point of a program to educate school children and adults about the importance of New York’s historic Erie Canal System and the role that inland waterways have played historically, and continue to play, in the lives of people who live along them. During the spring and fall, the “Urger” visits communities along the Canal System where students in fourth-grade classes at local schools take field trips to the Tug. During summer, the “Urger” cruises to numerous cities, towns, and villages, along the Canal System where she and her four-member crew serve as ambassadors for New York’s Canals at community festivals celebrating their Canal heritage. During the closing weekend of Canal Fest, the Museum will host its first “Canal Fest History Weekend in North Tonawanda” in Gratwick-Riverside Park. To be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 22 and 23, from 9 a.m. to dark on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, most activities will take place between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. both days. Sunday visitors may remain at the park and enjoy the Canal Fest fireworks from the shore of the Niagara River after dark. Included in the event will be historical presentations on Civil War history by Echoes Through Time Historical Tours & Presentations, Sons of Union Veterans—Chaplain PG Cook Camp 223, Sons of Confederate Veterans—Buffalo Guards Camp 1975, Buffalo Civil War Round Table, the Niagara Frontier Relic Hunters Association (Metal Detectors Club), and much more. Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., North Tonawanda author, John H. Kolecki will do a book signing of his “The Hybraid Amerykaniec: Dziadzi” and on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., North Tonawanda native Diane M. Meholick will do a book signing of her books, including “Painting Katherine” which tells the story of the establishment of the Historic Riviera Theatre and North Tonawanda’s mansions. From noon to 6 p.m. both days, there will be Face Painting by Danielle. A used book sale will be held from noon to 5 p.m. both days. Refreshments will be available at the park from noon to 6 p.m. both days. Call the Museum at 213-0554 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com for additional information.
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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
Volunteers Needed Docent-oriented individuals are needed for training as tour guides and event workers for a variety of programs and activities by the North Tonawanda History Museum. Some of the activities you may become involved in include weekly guided history walks from June through September, regular Wednesday evening walks and walks scheduled throughout the year at varying times; an annual Halloween-type outdoor event on the last three Fridays of October; a bi-annual ethnic heritage festival; a bi-annual historic homes tour; annual History Weekend during Canal Fest of the Tonawandas in July and other Canal Fest week activities. Call 213-0554 for information. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
The North Tonawanda History Museum Board of Trustees announces the 2nd annual North Tonawanda Historic Gardens Tour, the purpose of which is to encourage visitors to our city as well as to serve our residents and to emphasize the enjoyment of history, things historical, and gardening. The tour includes a contest component which is a city wide garden project with a historic theme requirement for participation, and meant to stimulate residents, businesses, and other organizations to turn the entire city into a garden city for the summer months, as well as to stimulate interest in things historical. The deadline for entries has passed. Not all sites in the tour are participating in the contest component. Winners of the contest component will be announced in August. The 32-site tour component is meant to showcase North Tonawanda and its homes and gardens to residents and non-residents as a wonderful community in which to live, and encourage interest in combining a love of gardening with an interest in history. In addition to gardens the tour also features historic sites which complement the garden sites. The tour runs from June 15 through August 31. A guide booklet prepared for the tour includes maps and descriptions of the historical and garden sites in the tour. The tour guides/maps showing locations of participating sites will be available beginning June 15, 2006, at the North Tonawanda History Museum offices at 314 Oliver Street; Hodgepodge at 72 Webster Street; Lovin’ Life at 305 Robinson Street; the North Tonawanda Public Library, 505 Meadow Drive; the Office of the Mayor in City Hall at 216 Payne Avenue; and the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas at 15 Webster Street. A $2 donation is suggested for the tour guide/map. The North Tonawanda Historic Gardens Tour 2006 is hosted by the North Tonawanda History Museum, in collaboration with the Tonawanda News’ Towpath Tiller, and sponsored by Anderson’s Frozen Custard, Inc., Awnings Plus, Canal Fest of the Tonawandas, Cipriano, Inc., Realtors, Downtown Merchants Association of North Tonawanda, Friends of the North Tonawanda Public Library, Hodgepodge, Senator George M. Maziarz, Michael B. Mroczka/RealtyUSA, Pane’s Restaurant, Pioneer Printers, Inc., and Project Pride. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
Museum Seeks Event Workers for Summer Activities The North Tonawanda History Museum is seeking workers for Canal Fest week, July 16-23 for a variety of activities. Days run from 7:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Two to three hour shifts preferred. Your choice of days and hours. Call 213-0554. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
The North Tonawanda History Museum, in collaboration with Echoes Through Time Historical Tours & Presentations will present “Canal Fest History Weekend in North Tonawanda” during Canal Fest of the Tonawandas this year. Set for Saturday and Sunday, July 22 and 23, at Gratwick-Riverside Park, the event will include historical presentations on Civil War and other historical periods, including teaching and demonstrations, and a mobile classroom setting, with displays, and uniformed presenters. Among the variety of participants will be the Sons of Confederate Veterans – Buffalo Guards Camp 1975, the Sons of Union Veterans - Chaplain PG Cook Camp 223, Buffalo Civil War Round Table, and the Niagara Frontier Relic Hunters Association (Metal Detector Club). A used book sale and book signings by local authors of historical publications, including North Tonawanda native Diane Meholick and North Tonawanda resident John Kolecki will be included in the weekend’s events at the park. Face painting by Danielle will be available for children. The fireworks display can be viewed from the park as well on Sunday evening following the end of Canal Fest. The Museum will also offer historical and ethnic gift items from their gift shop. Kolecki’s barbecued dinners, Andeson’s frozen yogurt, and soft drinks, bottled water and light refreshments will be available as well. To facilitate travel between the main campus of Canal Fest for the History Weekend and the popular canal Fest Craft Show and the also popular flea market in Clinton Park in the City of Tonawanda sponsored by the Historical Society of the Tonawandas, the North Tonawanda History Museum has contracted with Rainbow Transportation to provide a shuttle van service between Gratwick-Riverside Park and Clinton Park, with stops as well on River Road at Goundry Street and on the Tonawanda side of the Seymour Street bridge. The shuttle bus will begin both days at 11 a.m. at River Road and Goundry and will continue throughout the day, stopping at Clinton Park on the hour, and at Gratwick-Riverside Park on the half hour throughout the day both days until the last pick up at 6 p.m. A $1 fee will be charged per ride. Additional re-enactment groups or other appropriate historical activities for the weekend event are being interviewed. Interested individuals or groups wishing to inquire about participation are invited to contact the Museum at 213-0554 or by email at nthistorymuseum@aol.com. Donations of used books are presently being accepted by the Museum for the book sale. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
The Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum has announced that a copy of its annual report for 2005 can be viewed on the Museum Online at www.nthistorymuseum.org in the Administrative & Legal section. This year’s report includes information on the first two years of museum operations. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
The North Tonawanda History Museum, in collaboration with Echoes Through Time Historical Tours & Presentations will present “Canal Fest History Weekend in North Tonawanda” during Canal Fest of the Tonawandas this year. Set for Saturday and Sunday, July 22 and 23, at Gratwick-Riverside Park, the event will include historical presentations on Civil War and other historical periods, including teaching and demonstrations, and a mobile classroom setting, with displays, and uniformed presenters. Among the variety of participants will be the Sons of Confederate Veterans – Buffalo Guards Camp 1975, the Sons of Union Veterans - Chaplain PG Cook Camp 223, Buffalo Civil War Round Table, and the Niagara Frontier Relic Hunters Association (Metal Detector Club). A Cinderella carriage ride along the Niagara River shore will also be offered from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days by Hartland Carriages. There will be a $5 charge for adults and $2.50 for children 6 to 16, free for ages 5 and under. This is a return engagement with the Museum for Hartland Carriages, having provided the carriage rides for the first bi-annual Historic Treasures Tour in July 2005 and the haunted hayride for the Haunted Gardens on the EEEErie Canal in October 2005. A used book sale and book signings by local authors of historical publications, including North Tonawanda native Diane Meholick and North Tonawanda resident John Kolecki will be included in the weekend’s events at the park. Face painting by Danielle will be available for children. The fireworks display can be viewed from the park as well on Sunday evening following the end of Canal Fest. The Museum will also offer historical and ethnic gift items from their gift shop. Kolecki’s barbecued dinners, Anderson’s frozen yogurt, and soft drinks, bottled water and light refreshments will be available as well. To facilitate travel between the main campus of Canal Fest for the History Weekend and the popular canal Fest Craft Show and the also popular flea market in Clinton Park in the City of Tonawanda sponsored by the Historical Society of the Tonawandas, the North Tonawanda History Museum has contracted with Rainbow Transportation to provide a shuttle van service between Gratwick-Riverside Park and Clinton Park, with stops as well on River Road at Goundry Street and on the Tonawanda side of the Seymour Street bridge. The shuttle bus will begin both days at 11 a.m. at River Road and Goundry and will continue throughout the day, stopping at Clinton Park on the hour, and at Gratwick-Riverside Park on the half hour throughout the day both days until the last pick up at 6 p.m. A $1 fee will be charged per ride. Additional re-enactment groups or other appropriate historical activities for the weekend event are being interviewed. Interested individuals or groups wishing to inquire about participation are invited to contact the Museum at 213-0554 or by email at nthistorymuseum@aol.com. Donations of used books are presently being accepted by the Museum for the book sale.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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
The Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum announces the start up of a new nursing home initiative based on the Museum’s developing oral history program. Utilizing video tapes of Museum programs, the Museum will begin a monthly visit to Northgate Healthcare Facility, 7264 Nash Road, Wheatfield, on Wednesday, June 21. On Tuesday, September 12 the first of a series of monthly visits will begin at the DeGraff Skilled Nursing Facility, 445 Tremont Street, North Tonawanda. The oral history program has been developed with the efforts of City of Tonawanda resident Jason M. Law, who began developing the program while a student at D’Youville College in 2004 and has continued as the Oral History Program Coordinator for the Museum. It is hoped that, in addition to sharing the museum programs the residents are unable to personally attend and other programs, the visits will develop into opportunities for interested residents to share the histories of their families with Museum representatives as well. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
The North Tonawanda History Museum, in collaboration with Echoes Through Time Historical Tours & Presentations will present “Canal Fest History Weekend in North Tonawanda” during Canal Fest of the Tonawandas this year. Set for Saturday and Sunday, July 22 and 23, at Gratwick-Riverside Park, the event will include historical presentations on Civil War and other historical periods, including teaching and demonstrations, and a mobile classroom setting, with displays, and uniformed presenters. Among the variety of participants will be the Sons of Confederate Veterans – Buffalo Guards Camp 1975, the Sons of Union Veterans - Chaplain PG Cook Camp 223, Buffalo Civil War Round Table, and the Niagara Frontier Relic Hunters Association (Metal Detector Club). A Cinderella carriage ride along the Niagara River shore will also be offered from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days by Hartland Carriages. There will be a $5 charge for adults and $2.50 for children 6 to 16, free for ages 5 and under. This is a return engagement with the Museum for Hartland Carriages, having provided the carriage rides for the first bi-annual Historic Treasures Tour in July 2005 and the haunted hayride for the Haunted Gardens on the EEEErie Canal in October 2005. At 3 p.m. on Saturday the 22 nd, there will also be a special performance by the Woodgate-Lachut School of Irish Dance, a repeat performance as well with the Museum, having performed for their 1 st Irish Heritage Night program on March 17, 2005. A used book sale and book signings by local authors of historical publications, including North Tonawanda native Diane Meholick and North Tonawanda resident John Kolecki will be included in the weekend’s events at the park. Face painting by Danielle will be available for children. The fireworks display can be viewed from the park as well on Sunday evening following the end of Canal Fest. The Museum will also offer historical and ethnic gift items from their gift shop. Kolecki’s barbecued dinners, Anderson’s frozen yogurt, and soft drinks, bottled water and light refreshments will be available as well. To facilitate travel between the main campus of Canal Fest for the History Weekend and the popular canal Fest Craft Show and the also popular flea market in Clinton Park in the City of Tonawanda sponsored by the Historical Society of the Tonawandas, the North Tonawanda History Museum has contracted with Rainbow Transportation to provide a shuttle van service between Gratwick-Riverside Park and Clinton Park, with stops as well on River Road at Goundry Street and on the Tonawanda side of the Seymour Street bridge. The shuttle bus will begin both days at 11 a.m. at River Road and Goundry and will continue throughout the day, stopping at Clinton Park on the hour, and at Gratwick-Riverside Park on the half hour throughout the day both days until the last pick up at 6 p.m. A $1 fee will be charged per ride. Additional re-enactment groups or other appropriate historical activities for the weekend event are being interviewed. Interested individuals or groups wishing to inquire about participation are invited to contact the Museum at 213-0554 or by email at nthistorymuseum@aol.com. Donations of used books are presently being accepted by the Museum for the book sale. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Cultural
Museum Announces Summer Events Continuing their focus on what members describe as, “turning the entire city into their museum,” the North Tonawanda History Museum’s Board of Trustees announces a full summer schedule. The actual existing museum at 314 Oliver Street will be open normal hours except for Canal Fest week. Museum hours are Monday and Tuesday 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Friday 9 a.m. to noon. For Canal Fest week, the Museum will close at noon on Friday, July 14, and reopen at 9 a.m. on Monday, July 24. The Museum Online is available 24 hours a day at www.nthistorymuseum.org. Museum volunteers will respond within 24 hours to all phone and e-mail messages during the week. The Museum’s focus for the summer will be on taking the City’s history to the community through events and activities based on historical themes. Seaway Trail Walks – June 7 to September 27 Sixteen weeks of North Tonawanda Seaway Trail Walks began Wednesday, June 7, and continue through September 27, with walks beginning and ending at Project Pride Way on the west side of Webster Street across from the Historic Riviera Theatre every Wednesday. The walks begin at 6 p.m. and last 90-minutes. This year’s walks are co-sponsored by Seaway Trail, Inc., and the Landmark Society of the Niagara Frontier. Fees apply. 2nd Annual North Tonawanda Historic Gardens Tour Beginning June 15 and continuing through August 31, the Museum is sponsoring its 2 nd Annual North Tonawanda Historic Gardens Tour. The tour, a self-guided one based on a printed booklet containing maps and descriptions, includes 32 sites with history and gardens as the focus. Most gardens and historical sites can be visited at your convenience. The self-guided booklets will be available for a $2 donation at the Museum, the Mayor’s office in City Hall, the Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawandas at 15 Webster Street, Hodgepodge at 72 Webster Street, Lovin’ Life at 305 Robinson Street, and the North Tonawanda Public Library at 505 Meadow Drive. Canal Fest of the Tonawandas Participation July 16-23 activities include historic Tugboat Urger Canal Fest week will be busy for the now-2-1/2 year old organization, including a booth on the Canal Fest campus from July 16-23. In addition to gourmet coffees and hot chocolate, donuts, cookies, and fancy dessert cakes, the Museum will offer its publications for sale at the booth, including self-guided walking/driving tour books of historical North Tonawanda. During Canal Fest week, the Museum will also host two additional Seaway Trail Walks, one beginning at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, July 18 and one beginning at 4 p.m. on Thursday, July 20. This year, the Museum is also sponsoring the visit by the historic Tugboat Urger. The tugboat “Urger is the flagship of the fleet of vessels operated by the New York State Canal Corporation on the 524-mile Canal System. The Urger will be docked under the Delaware Street bridge and can be accessed from the Tonawanda side of the Canal bank or from the stairs on the Delaware Street bridge. Museum greeters will be present to provide information to visitors on things to do and see in the community throughout the year. The Urger will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily during Canal Fest. Built in 1901 in Ferrysburg, Michigan, this venerable tug is one of the oldest working vessels in the country still afloat. Originally built for use as a commercial shipping vessel, the “Urger” was originally christened the “Henry J. Dombos,” after a prominent Michigan merchant. She was described in the Detroit Free Press as the “finest fishing boat in the local fishing fleet.” In the early 1920’s, the tub was sold, renamed the “Urger,” and entered the New York State Canal fleet. Stationed in Waterford, the “Urger” served more than 60 years hauling machinery, dredges, and scows on the Erie and Champlain Canals until she was retired from service in the 1980’s. In 1991, the “Urger” was called back into service with a new mission. She now serves as the focal point of a program to educate school children and adults about the importance of New York’s historic Erie Canal System and the role that inland waterways have played historically, and continue to play, in the lives of people who live along them. During the spring and fall, the “Urger” visits communities along the Canal System where students in fourth-grade classes at local schools take field trips to the Tug. During summer, the “Urger” cruises to numerous cities, towns, and villages, along the Canal System where she and her four-member crew serve as ambassadors for New York’s Canals at community festivals celebrating their Canal heritage. Canal Fest History Weekend in North Tonawanda – July 22 & 23 During the closing weekend of Canal Fest, the Museum will host its first “Canal Fest History Weekend in North Tonawanda” in Gratwick-Riverside Park. To be held on Saturday and Sunday, July 22 and 23, from 9 a.m. to dark on Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, most activities will take place between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. both days. Sunday visitors may remain at the park and enjoy the Canal Fest fireworks from the shore of the Niagara River after dark. Included in the event will be historical presentations on Civil War history by Echoes Through Time Historical Tours & Presentations, Sons of Union Veterans—Chaplain PG Cook Camp 223, Sons of Confederate Veterans—Buffalo Guards Camp 1975, Buffalo Civil War Round Table, the Niagara Frontier Relic Hunters Association (Metal Detectors Club), and much more. A Cinderella carriage ride along the Niagara River shore will be provided both days by Hartland Carriages at $5 per adult, $2.50 for kids 6 to 16, 5 and under free. Saturday from noon to 5 p.m., North Tonawanda author, John H. Kolecki will do a book signing of his “The Hybraid Amerykaniec: Dziadzi” and on Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., North Tonawanda native Diane M. Meholick will do a book signing of her books, including “Painting Katherine” which tells the story of the establishment of the Historic Riviera Theatre and North Tonawanda’s mansions. From noon to 6 p.m. both days, there will be Face Painting by Danielle. A used book sale will be held from noon to 5 p.m. both days. The Woodgate-Lachut School of Irish Dance will perform on Saturday, July 22, at 3 p.m. Refreshments will be available at the park from noon to 6 p.m. both days, including Kolecki’s barbecued dinners, Anderson’s frozen yogurt, soft drinks and bottled water and other light refreshments. Museum ethnic and historical gift items will also be available during the weekend event. To facilitate travel between the main campus of Canal Fest for the History Weekend and the popular canal Fest Craft Show and the also popular flea market in Clinton Park in the City of Tonawanda sponsored by the Historical Society of the Tonawandas, the North Tonawanda History Museum has contracted with Rainbow Transportation to provide a shuttle van service between Gratwick-Riverside Park and Clinton Park, with stops as well on River Road at Goundry Street and on the Tonawanda side of the Seymour Street bridge. The shuttle bus will begin both days at 11 a.m. at River Road and Goundry and will continue throughout the day, stopping at Clinton Park on the hour, and at Gratwick-Riverside Park on the half hour throughout the day both days until the last pick up at 6 p.m. A $1 fee will be charged per ride. Call the Museum at 213-0554 or email to nthistorymuseum@aol.com for additional information. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
North Tonawanda-Wheatfield Celebration of Shared History Planned for Sesquicentennial; Public’s assistance sought The year 2007 will mark the 150 th anniversary of what is now the modern day City of North Tonawanda’s becoming part of the Town of Wheatfield. For eight years from 1857 until North Tonawanda was ready to advance to being an incorporated village in 1865, it was part of Wheatfield, and continued to be part of the Town of Wheatfield as a village within it, until April 24, 1897. The present day Martinsville and Gratwick communities of North Tonawanda remained part of Wheatfield as well until the further advancement in 1897 of North Tonawanda as an incorporated city. Martinsville and Gratwick were then were annexed to the new City of North Tonawanda. The North Tonawanda History Museum hopes to focus many of its 2007 activities on a celebration of the “Sesquicentennial” of its becoming and remaining part of the Town of Wheatfield for the forty year period from 1857 to 1897. On April 19, 2007, the Museum will hold its third annual “ North Tonawanda’s Birthday Party.” The program next year will focus on the Sesquicentennial theme of North Tonawanda and its wonderful neighbor, Wheatfield, the 142 nd anniversary of North Tonawanda’s incorporation as a village (May 8, 1865), and its 110 th anniversary as a City (April 24, 1897). The Museum will also celebrate its 3 rd anniversary as a chartered museum (April 20, 2004). Already planning to join in the festivities of the day is St. Peter’s Lutheran Brethren Church, which will be celebrating its 120 th anniversary in 2007. A Sesquicentennial exhibit is also planned for the Summit Park Mall in Wheatfield and several in North Tonawanda during 2007. The new Town of Wheatfield Historical Society and the Historical Society of North German Settlements of Western New York will be included in the celebration. It is hoped that the schools in North Tonawanda and Wheatfield will also be able to join in creating a wonderful “North Tonawanda/Wheatfield Sesquicentennial Celebration!” Individuals with photos and/or historical materials and items about the shared heritage of North Tonawanda and Wheatfield are invited to contact the North Tonawanda History Museum at 213-0554 or by email at nthistorymuseum@aol.com, the Town of Wheatfield Historical Society at 693-5656 or the Historical Society of North German Settlements of Western New York at 731-9905. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
The Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum announces the start up of a new nursing home initiative based on the Museum’s developing oral history program. Utilizing video tapes of Museum programs, the Museum will begin a monthly visit to Northgate Healthcare Facility, 7264 Nash Road, Wheatfield, on Wednesday, June 21. On Wednesday, August 30, the first of a series of monthly visits will begin at the DeGraff Adult Day Care Center, 82 Mead Street, North Tonawanda; on Wednesday, September 6, the first of a series of monthly visits will begin at the Alterra Sterling House of Niagara, 6741 Nash Road, Wheatfield; and on Tuesday, September 12 the first of a series of monthly visits will begin at the DeGraff Skilled Nursing Facility, 445 Tremont Street, North Tonawanda. The oral history program has been developed with the efforts of City of Tonawanda resident Jason M. Law, who began developing the program while a student at D’Youville College in 2004 and has continued as the Oral History Program Coordinator for the Museum. It is hoped that, in addition to sharing the museum programs the residents are unable to personally attend and other programs, the visits will develop into opportunities for interested residents to share the histories of their families with Museum representatives as well. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
The North Tonawanda History Museum Historic Treasures Tour Committee has begun plans for the 2007 event, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, July 29, 2007, from noon to 6 p.m. It is anticipated that advance sale tickets will be available in early December in time for Christmas giving as was done with the first tour. Ticket prices are expected to be $18 each for the tour of between ten and fifteen homes. A Cinderella carriage ride is expected to be repeated also, at a charge of $5 per person. The Western New York Association of Historical Agencies awarded the North Tonawanda History Museum an Organizational Award of Merit for excellence in presenting the 2005 tour and the 65-page guidebook created as the passport to the tour which has continued to be purchased by people from all over the country. RealtyUSA was the event’s major sponsor in 2005. Cipriano, Inc., Realtors also advertised in the event guidebook. Museum representatives are presently initiating the screening process for candidate homes for inclusion in the 2007 tour. Homeowners interested in discussing having their home featured in the tour are invited to contact the Museum. Realtors and mortgage companies interested in serving as event sponsors are also invited to contact the Museum. The event’s primary purpose is to present and promote North Tonawanda as a wonderful city in which to live. North Tonawanda is described by Museum representatives as “the best little city in New York State, with a small town atmosphere and a rich and unique history.” In conjunction with the bi-annual tours, the Museum has established a North Tonawanda History Museum Historic Treasures Recognition Plaque program. Cast bronze plaques may be purchased through the Museum for installation on historic homes and buildings in the City. Contact the Museum at 213-0554 for further information 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 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda, New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Museum Established Restricted Fund to Cover Book Publishing Costs The Board of Trustees of the North Tonawanda History Museum has announced the establishment of a Publications Committee for the purpose of creating the Museum’s first full-length book on the history of North Tonawanda. The first book, “ North Tonawanda: The Lumber City,” is expected to be the first in a series of books, as requested by area residents and former residents. The targeted release date is August 2007. “North Tonawanda: The Lumber City” will be a 352 page book and will be printed for the Museum by Buffalo Spree Publications, Inc. The book will have a preprint hard cover and 50# stock for the pages. It will sell for $29.95 plus applicable sales tax. Donna Zellner Neal is editor and contributing writers include A. Daniel Bille, Diane M. Meholick, Ken Mountain, Lloyd Long, Arlene Stocki McNair, Harold O. Schwartz, and Allen C. Gademsky, with assistance from architectural historian Martin Wachadlo, John W. Percy, and numerous other residents and former residents. Proof readers will include Paula Belair, A. Daniel Bille, John W. Percy, and Diane M. Meholick. Indexing will be by Frances Wilson. Research assistance is being provided by Frances Wilson, Lou Omel, and Walter Wozniak. The Board of Trustees has established a restricted Book Fund, on the suggestion of Niagara County Legislator Malcolm Needler. Needler has suggested that the community and museum members around the world be invited to participate in the book project by making $100 donations. Each $100 donation will entitle individuals, groups, and businesses to a patron listing in the published book—and one copy of the book. Needler has made the first $100 donation. Former Congressman John J. LaFalce has already made the second $100 donation in spite of the project not having been officially announced previously. Donations to the project may be made by cash, check, or money order payable to “North Tonawanda History Museum” and marked “BOOK PROJECT.” In the next two weeks, it will also be possible for donations to be made by using Master Card or Visa. Advance orders of the book will also be accepted and should be marked “BOOK ORDER.” For out of town orders or those wishing to have the completed book(s) mailed to their address, a $3 per book shipping and handling fee should be included. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
Museum Seeks Volunteers to Serve as Goodwill Ambassadors during Canal Fest This year, the North Tonawanda History Museum is sponsoring the Canal Fest week visit by the historic Tugboat Urger. The tugboat “Urger is the flagship of the fleet of vessels operated by the New York State Canal Corporation on the 524-mile Canal System. The Urger will be docked under the Delaware Street bridge and can be accessed from the Tonawanda side of the Canal bank or from the stairs on the Delaware Street bridge. It will be open to the public from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily July 16-23. There is no admission charge. Museum greeters will be present to provide information to visitors on things to do and see in the community throughout the year. Individuals or couples wishing to serve as goodwill ambassadors welcoming people to the community as they visit the historic tugboat are asked to contact the Museum at 213-0554 as soon as possible. Shifts of two hours are suggested but time periods can be arranged to accommodate the availability of volunteers. Built in 1901 in Ferrysburg, Michigan, this venerable tug is one of the oldest working vessels in the country still afloat. Originally built for use as a commercial shipping vessel, the “Urger” was originally christened the “Henry J. Dombos,” after a prominent Michigan merchant. She was described in the Detroit Free Press as the “finest fishing boat in the local fishing fleet.” In the early 1920’s, the tub was sold, renamed the “Urger,” and entered the New York State Canal fleet. Stationed in Waterford, the “Urger” served more than 60 years hauling machinery, dredges, and scows on the Erie and Champlain Canals until she was retired from service in the 1980’s. In 1991, the “Urger” was called back into service with a new mission. She now serves as the focal point of a program to educate school children and adults about the importance of New York’s historic Erie Canal System and the role that inland waterways have played historically, and continue to play, in the lives of people who live along them. During the spring and fall, the “Urger” visits communities along the Canal System where students in fourth-grade classes at local schools take field trips to the Tug. During summer, the “Urger” cruises to numerous cities, towns, and villages, along the Canal System where she and her four-member crew serve as ambassadors for New York’s Canals at community festivals celebrating their Canal heritage. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
The North Tonawanda History Museum Historic Treasures Tour Committee has begun plans for the 2007 event, tentatively scheduled for Sunday, July 29, 2007, from noon to 6 p.m. Last year’s Committee Chair Betty A. Brandon will be assisted this year by Museum members and historic homeowners, Paula Belair, Margaret Cheeley, Marilyn Lasky, David Walders, Peter Trinkwalder, and Museum Director Donna Zellner Neal. It is anticipated that advance sale tickets will be available in early December in time for Christmas giving as was done with the first tour. Ticket prices are expected to be $18 each for the tour of between ten and fifteen homes. A Cinderella carriage ride is expected to be repeated also, at a charge of $5 per person.
The Western New York Association of Historical Agencies awarded the North Tonawanda History Museum an Organizational Award of Merit for excellence in presenting the 2005 tour and the 65-page guidebook created as the passport to the tour which has continued to be purchased by people from all over the country. RealtyUSA was the event’s major sponsor in 2005. Cipriano, Inc., Realtors also advertised in the event guidebook. Museum representatives are presently initiating the screening process for candidate homes for inclusion in the 2007 tour. Homeowners interested in discussing having their home featured in the tour are invited to contact the Museum. Realtors and mortgage companies interested in serving as event sponsors are also invited to contact the Museum. The event’s primary purpose is to present and promote North Tonawanda as a wonderful city in which to live. North Tonawanda is described by Museum representatives as “the best little city in New York State, with a small town atmosphere and a rich and unique history.” In conjunction with the bi-annual tours, the Museum has established a North Tonawanda History Museum Historic Treasures Recognition Plaque program. Cast bronze plaques may be purchased through the Museum for installation on historic homes and buildings in the City. Contact the Museum at 213-0554 for further information 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 314 Oliver Street North Tonawanda, New York 14120 (716) 213-0554 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
The North Tonawanda History Museum will host its second annual series of three Fridays in the North Tonawanda Botanical Gardens at 1825 Sweeney Street. Originally named the Adam Gondek Botanical Gardens, it was the site of last year’s “13 Historic Ghosts of the Niagara Frontier.” The event has been given a permanent name and format for this year’s and future years. The HAUNTED GARDENS ON THE EEEErie CANAL will take place this year on October 13, 20, and 27 from 7 to 10 p.m. This year’s event will bring back the popular Haunted Hayride presented by Hartland Carriages, the Haunted Greenhouse with refreshments and gift items for sale, and a new guided Spooky Stroll through the Haunted Gardens. Advisors to this year’s event will be Joann Mis and Carl Tamburlin, who created the scripts, sets, costuming and props for last year’s events and produced the guided stroll portion. Coordinating the guided stroll for the North Tonawanda History Museum will be Danielle Oney. Advance sale tickets will be available at the Museum in the near future and may be used on your choice of the three nights. Youth groups and classes are needed to create haunted hayride tableaus. Last year’s event included 150 area youngsters who, using their imaginations and creative talents, haunted the hayride route, including such things as a witches’ cauldron, haunted graveyard, and even a dancing ghost. The earliest groups to volunteer will have first choice of locations in which to create their part of the haunted hayride—and the first choice on subject matter or focus of their part of the project. Teachers and youth group leaders are invited to contact the Museum at 213-0554 or by email at nthistorymusuem@aol.com before September 1 expressing interest in participation. Participants will be required to attend two full rehearsals prior to the October 13 event and may also be required to participate in several additional practice sessions and walk throughs of their own parts. Individuals wishing to participate who are not part of an organized group are also invited to register with the Museum. All efforts will be made to include everyone who is interested in participating in some form in the event. Community service credit is given to all who participate who have need of such projects. Tickets at the event will be $5 for adults for the guided stroll, $5 for the haunted hayride. Children ages 6-16 will be $2.50 for the stroll and $2.50 for the haunted hayride. Children 5 and under are free for both. Advance sale tickets are available only for a combination of both the haunted hayride and the guided stroll for $9 for adults and $4 for children ages 6 to 16. Advance purchase will save time the evening of the event by eliminating the need to stand in line to purchase tickets. 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 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 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesdays 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., Thursdays 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Fridays 9 a.m. to noon Also open by appointment; admission free; donations accepted Proud to be a member of/affiliated with:
The North Tonawanda History Museum will host its first bi-annual series ethnic heritage festival on Saturday, October 7, 2006. “North Tonawanda: A Celebration of Our Diversity!” will be held in the Sportsplex Family Entertainment Complex at 90 Ridge Road behind Mid-City Plaza off Payne Avenue. Event workers of all kinds will be needed and interested individuals and groups are invited to contact the Museum early at 213-0554 or by email at nthistorymuseum@aol.com. Writers of brief articles |
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