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Showing posts with label history. Show all posts
Showing posts with label history. Show all posts
Sunday, March 13, 2016
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
Niagara County’s famous long-haired ladies, the musical Seven Sutherland Sisters, will inspire the Niagara History Center’s celebration of “Good Hair Day,” Saturday, April 9, from 12 - 2 p.m., at the Center’s 215 Niagara St. site in Lockport.
We’ll recognize the unique lives, careers, and hair of Sarah, Victoria, Isabella, Grace, Naomi, Dora and Mary, as we offer hair-measuring contests for both women and men with prizes, games, children’s activities and more. We’ll hear about the Sutherlands’ family, love lives, ornate Cambria mansion, and how all that long hair, estimated at a collective 37 feet, became their fame and fortune.
“Isabella Sutherland” herself will make an appearance, re-enacted by Marsha Zimmer of our Step Back in Time players. Zimmer will share new information on the sisters, which she has uncovered through her ongoing interest and research about the family.
The seven sisters, daughters of Fletcher and Mary Sutherland, traveled the world with their singing act, but the real attraction was the floor-length hair of each one. The Sutherlands joined the Barnum and Bailey Circus, where the seven long-haired women became a sideshow attraction.
The Sutherlands also marketed a family-made hair “Hair Grower,” created by mother Mary, which they credited for their flowing tresses. Women sought out the product in the hopes of growing long and luxuriant hair. This product, along with “Scalp Cleaner,” “Colorator” and other concoctions made millions for the family and brought them an eccentric lifestyle, world-wide attention, questionable loves, and tragedies rivaling much of what fills tabloids and social media today. A large part of their fascinating story took place right here in Niagara County.
Call the History Center at (716) 434-7433 for more information. Then join us for “Good Hair Day” and celebrate the fascinating and very unique Seven Sutherland Sisters!
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
The Seven Sutherland Sisters, who resided in Niagara County, are the
inspiration for the Niagara History Center’s “Good Hair Day” April 9.
|
We’ll recognize the unique lives, careers, and hair of Sarah, Victoria, Isabella, Grace, Naomi, Dora and Mary, as we offer hair-measuring contests for both women and men with prizes, games, children’s activities and more. We’ll hear about the Sutherlands’ family, love lives, ornate Cambria mansion, and how all that long hair, estimated at a collective 37 feet, became their fame and fortune.
“Isabella Sutherland” herself will make an appearance, re-enacted by Marsha Zimmer of our Step Back in Time players. Zimmer will share new information on the sisters, which she has uncovered through her ongoing interest and research about the family.
The seven sisters, daughters of Fletcher and Mary Sutherland, traveled the world with their singing act, but the real attraction was the floor-length hair of each one. The Sutherlands joined the Barnum and Bailey Circus, where the seven long-haired women became a sideshow attraction.
The Sutherlands also marketed a family-made hair “Hair Grower,” created by mother Mary, which they credited for their flowing tresses. Women sought out the product in the hopes of growing long and luxuriant hair. This product, along with “Scalp Cleaner,” “Colorator” and other concoctions made millions for the family and brought them an eccentric lifestyle, world-wide attention, questionable loves, and tragedies rivaling much of what fills tabloids and social media today. A large part of their fascinating story took place right here in Niagara County.
Call the History Center at (716) 434-7433 for more information. Then join us for “Good Hair Day” and celebrate the fascinating and very unique Seven Sutherland Sisters!
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ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
Children and adults can uncover more “Hidden History” as the Niagara History Center’s continuing evening series explores Titanic Connections to the Niagara Frontier, Tuesday, April 12. The 5:30 - 7:30 pm program is sponsored by Yahoo! and will begin with a pizza and beverage dinner, followed by hands-on, all-ages activities based upon the theme.
More than 100 years after it sank to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, the story of the Titanic disaster still fascinates people of any age. The images of wealthy New York aristocrats, as well as poor European immigrants, going down with the ship are fixed in our minds.
But what most people don’t know is that there were several passengers on board who had connections to the Niagara Frontier. Our Family Night program will explore these forgotten stories and offer activities to commemorate this historic but tragic event.
As families arrive for the pizza dinner, every adult and child will be given the identity of a real Titanic passenger. Following a brief presentation, families will participate in various aspects of learning about the Titanic and doing hands-on projects. At the end of the evening, you will learn the fate of your passenger.
This series is funded through the Yahoo Community Benefit Fund in conjunction with the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, which awarded the Niagara County Historical Society a grant to offer this program on the first Tuesday of the month throughout 2016. The Niagara History Center is celebrating 2016 as “The Year of the Family” by emphasizing programs children and adults can enjoy together.
Each Family Night has a different theme relating to a little-known, unusual or mysterious aspect of Niagara County history. Family Nights are inspired by our popular children’s history programs. We’ve created activities that both children and adult family members can enjoy together. Family Nights are most appropriate for children ages 5 and up, who must be accompanied by an adult.
The rest of the year’s themes, all with Niagara County emphasis, are:
Family Night presenters include History Center staff, re-enactors from our Step Back in Time Players, and volunteers, plus representatives of local communities, New York State parks, and historical sites and organizations
The Family Night program is open to all Western New York families, regardless of residence.
Please call the History Center at (716) 434-7433 for more information on Family Nights and our children’s history programs on school holidays and during summer vacation.
Reservations are required for all Family Nights, and due to the program’s popularity, we suggest early registration. Please call the History Center at (716) 434-7433 to make reservations.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
| Find out how this family is connected to both Niagara County and the HMS Titanic. |
More than 100 years after it sank to the bottom of the Atlantic Ocean, the story of the Titanic disaster still fascinates people of any age. The images of wealthy New York aristocrats, as well as poor European immigrants, going down with the ship are fixed in our minds.
But what most people don’t know is that there were several passengers on board who had connections to the Niagara Frontier. Our Family Night program will explore these forgotten stories and offer activities to commemorate this historic but tragic event.
As families arrive for the pizza dinner, every adult and child will be given the identity of a real Titanic passenger. Following a brief presentation, families will participate in various aspects of learning about the Titanic and doing hands-on projects. At the end of the evening, you will learn the fate of your passenger.
This series is funded through the Yahoo Community Benefit Fund in conjunction with the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, which awarded the Niagara County Historical Society a grant to offer this program on the first Tuesday of the month throughout 2016. The Niagara History Center is celebrating 2016 as “The Year of the Family” by emphasizing programs children and adults can enjoy together.
Each Family Night has a different theme relating to a little-known, unusual or mysterious aspect of Niagara County history. Family Nights are inspired by our popular children’s history programs. We’ve created activities that both children and adult family members can enjoy together. Family Nights are most appropriate for children ages 5 and up, who must be accompanied by an adult.
The rest of the year’s themes, all with Niagara County emphasis, are:
- May 10 - Geographic Oddities
- June 14 - Mysteries of Niagara Falls
- July 12 - Military History
- August 9 - Merry-Go-Round History
- September 13 - Native-American History
- October 11 - Ghosts
- November 8 - Underground Railroad
- December 13 - Ghosts of Christmas Past
Family Night presenters include History Center staff, re-enactors from our Step Back in Time Players, and volunteers, plus representatives of local communities, New York State parks, and historical sites and organizations
The Family Night program is open to all Western New York families, regardless of residence.
Please call the History Center at (716) 434-7433 for more information on Family Nights and our children’s history programs on school holidays and during summer vacation.
Reservations are required for all Family Nights, and due to the program’s popularity, we suggest early registration. Please call the History Center at (716) 434-7433 to make reservations.
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with the ENP Mobile app for Android.
Saturday, January 2, 2016
Deep within the earth on the natural south basin of the Erie Canal Gorge flows an ancient stream that has existed since the last Ice Age. As the Lockport landscape was populated in the early 1800s, these natural springs were discovered and eventually utilized by the people who lived there. However, one of those springs in particular, seems to have had its last use somewhere around 1934. With no other mention of it in the media, and as Lockport continued to develop closer to its prehistoric source, the infamous “Spalding Spring” appeared to have been lost.
The land surrounding Lockport was once part of a very large spillway that allowed waters from prehistoric Lake Tonawanda to reach the glacial Lake Iroquois. Over time, as water levels receded further, Lake Iroquois’ shoreline receded from the top of present day Toll Gate Hill all the way down to its present location at Olcott Beach. As the glaciers receded, so did the boundaries of the Great Lakes, but the underground tributaries that were present still remain today, and portions of the Lockport Spillway continue to provide a source for natural spring water.
 |
| (LOCKPORT PUBLIC LIBRARY -- Geological History of Niagara County) |
Local businessman, Dr. Scott D. Geise, working in collaboration with Dr. James Boles from the Museum of Disability History, in Amherst, have uncovered evidence that the waters that are now flowing through the Lockport Gas & Electric Building, maybe the same waters of the lost Spalding Spring.
In 1840, Lyman Spalding advertised a Bath House at his mill. Somewhat of a strange place to offer a public bath, but Spalding never really cared for the path most traveled. The natural springs was believed to have healing properties, and since many of Spalding’s neighbors, like Merchant’s Gargling Oil, were finding their fortunes by advertising health related products, Spalding Bath House soon became a local treasure. Spalding’s advertisements offered a deal that was hard to refuse – for $1 you could have bathing privileges for a year, or you could pay 12.5 cents per bath, for either canal water or “nice spring water.”
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| (PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. JIM BOLES PRIVATE COLLECTION) |
This spring, located on the hill behind the open hydraulic raceway, ran along the south bank of the canal gorge and was difficult to access because of its close proximity to the fast moving water of the Mill Race.
Eventually the spring was claimed as a city water supply that could be used by all:
A railing has been constructed around the spring at that back of the hydraulic race near Spalding Mill, and it is no longer to be dangerous. We doubt that there is another spring of water in the city more constantly frequented that this. Persons now are not obligated to cross the race, but a platform has been constructed on one side, with a strong and substantial railing on the margin, and the water is conveyed across in an iron tube.In the early 1900’s, there were concerns about the quality of the spring water, but it was still used by those who lived and worked nearby. The City and Samuel Outwater, the owner of the spring at that time, continued to have discussions about who was responsible for the springand the stairs leading down from 73 Main Street, directly behind the Outwater Bros business.
-- September 10, 1870 – The Lockport Daily Journal.
The next mention of the spring was in the 1920’s, just after World War I. In the May 19, 1920 Lockport Union-Sun & Journal, a Professor by the name of I.H. Buckminster, filed a report with the city concerning the condition of the Spalding Spring:
The water in this spring was in excellent sanitary condition at the time the examination was made. This spring is located in a very dangerous locality, and it is surrounded by sewer outlets. The locality is offensive to the nose and eyes. A change in the local conditions would be very likely to be dangerous for it might result in sewage getting into the spring.In 1922, a local roofer by the name of J.B. Storms had a business address of 63 Main Street, and because of his proximity to the spring, made a proposal to the city to construct a concrete reservoir so that he could sell the bottled spring water. In 1923, the Lockport Business Directory lists J.B. Storms as operating a business called Crystal Springs Water, which he later cleverly changed to the name of “Crystal Radio Active Water.” By 1934, there was no further mention of any use for this water source and the spring was essentially lost.
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| Spring water continues to flow through the flume of the Mill Race as shown in this photo of the third floor of the Lockport Gas & Electric Building. (DR. SCOTT D. GEISE) |
+Dr. Scott Geise of Newfane has an active interest in Erie Canal history, specifically surrounding the local Mill Race in Lockport. His column, "Historically Relevant," appears on the first and third Saturday of each month. Dr. Jim Boles, president and CEO of People, Inc. contributed to this column.
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Thursday, December 3, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
Local historian and author Ann Marie Linnabery will discuss her new book, "Niagara Discoveries, 2013-2015: Articles from the Union-Sun & Journal,” at 11 a.m. Saturday at the Niagara History Center, 215 Niagara St.
Following her presentation, Linnabery will sign copies of the book, which is available for $24.95 in the History Center’s Outwater Emporium Gift Shop. The book will also be sold in the Erie Canal Discovery Center’s Lock, Stock & Barrel Gift Shop, 24 Church St.
Linnabery also serves as education coordinator at the Niagara History Center, where she has worked since 2004. She holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Canisius College and a master’s degree in History from the University of Buffalo. She also served on the staff of the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site from 1989-2001 and has held positions at other cultural organizations, as well.
For more information, please contact the Niagara History Center at 434-7433.
Check out East Niagara Post videos on YouTube, Vine and Periscope.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
A postcard of Main Street in Lockport in the 1920s is featured
on the cover of “Niagara Discoveries,” Ann Marie Linnabery’s
book of her recent columns published in the Union-Sun &
Journal. (CONTRIBUTED)
|
Following her presentation, Linnabery will sign copies of the book, which is available for $24.95 in the History Center’s Outwater Emporium Gift Shop. The book will also be sold in the Erie Canal Discovery Center’s Lock, Stock & Barrel Gift Shop, 24 Church St.
Linnabery also serves as education coordinator at the Niagara History Center, where she has worked since 2004. She holds a bachelor’s degree in History from Canisius College and a master’s degree in History from the University of Buffalo. She also served on the staff of the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site from 1989-2001 and has held positions at other cultural organizations, as well.
For more information, please contact the Niagara History Center at 434-7433.
Check out East Niagara Post videos on YouTube, Vine and Periscope.
Thursday, August 6, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
The Niagara History Center, Erie Canal Discovery Center, and Col. William Bond House are teaming up with four other Western New York museums to celebrate "History in Your Backyard."
This collaborative month-long celebration enables guests to visit all seven locations for one low price. Participants will receive a commemorative “passport” that will be stamped at each attraction. The other participating history museums are the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, Museum of disABILITY History and Niagara Aerospace Museum.
The event was created to raise awareness of local museums and attractions, and to allow visitors the opportunity to enjoy a diverse array of history close to home. Visitors to the three Lockport sites will enjoy Niagara County and Erie Canal history.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children and students, and free for those under the age of 2. A family package is also available for $60. Tickets with passports can be purchased from the History Center or Discovery Center and can be used any time, at all participating sites, throughout the month of August.
For more information, call the History Center at 434-7433 or Erie Canal Discovery Center at 439-0431. You can also visit www.niagarahistory.org.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
The Col. William Bond House is one of
seven sites included in a "History in
Your Backyard" package. (ENP FILE
PHOTO)
|
This collaborative month-long celebration enables guests to visit all seven locations for one low price. Participants will receive a commemorative “passport” that will be stamped at each attraction. The other participating history museums are the Buffalo Niagara Heritage Village, Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, Museum of disABILITY History and Niagara Aerospace Museum.
The event was created to raise awareness of local museums and attractions, and to allow visitors the opportunity to enjoy a diverse array of history close to home. Visitors to the three Lockport sites will enjoy Niagara County and Erie Canal history.
Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for children and students, and free for those under the age of 2. A family package is also available for $60. Tickets with passports can be purchased from the History Center or Discovery Center and can be used any time, at all participating sites, throughout the month of August.
All ticket holders will be eligible to win a spectacular prize of a helicopter tour for two over Niagara Falls. The contest drawing will be held at the end of the month.
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Thursday, June 4, 2015
 |
| A sign marking the designation of the Niagara County Courthouse as being on the National Register of Historic Places was unveiled today. The courthouse has been on the list since 1997 but such designation doesn't include a sign. The William G. Pomeroy Foundation paid for the sign. (CRAIG BACON / CONTRIBUTOR) |
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
The Niagara County Courthouse complex received a placard this afternoon noting its placement on the National Register of Historic Places — 18 years after the designation was made.
The Niagara County Legislature, County Clerk Wayne Jagow, and the county historian unveiled a new marker noting the history of the 129-year-old building. The sign was received through a grant from the William G. Pomeroy Foundation.
Dorothy Rolling pushed to have the designation as an historic place in 1997.
The William G. Pomeroy Foundation established an historic signage grant program in 2006 to provide funding for Historic Roadside Markers in New York State, as the state stopped funding these markers in 1939. To date, the foundation has funded over 250 markers in 43 counties across the state, including two others in Niagara County. One is located in Pendleton commemorating the role of Sylvester Pendleton Clark in the formation of the Town of Pendleton. The other is located at Falkner Park in Youngstown, recognizing the efforts of Betsey Doyle as she assisted in the defense of Fort Niagara during the War of 1812.
When the Pomeroy Foundation discovered that a designation on the National Register did not include funding for a sign or plaque, they established a program in June 2013 to award grants to erect signage on these historic properties.
“We are thrilled that this sign has been erected so current and future generations will recognize the courthouse’s important role in your community,” said Paula Miller, executive director of the foundation in a letter.
Legislator W. Keith McNall, said, “The Niagara County Courthouse has stood sentinel on this corner since 1886. The lot had formerly been the Public Square, often the site of circuses, baseball games, and Independence Day celebrations. Across the street, and also part of the National Register designation is the County Clerk’s building. It is the oldest standing Niagara County governmental building, having been constructed in 1856.”
“The National Register of Historic Places endeavors to save and protect important places and buildings in our community. The William G. Pomeroy Foundation has generously donated grant money for appropriate signage. This helps to highlight, educate, and alert citizens and visitors to the significance of these structures,” added Legislator Anthony Nemi.
According to County Historian Catherine Emerson, the current courthouse was erected in 1886. Its contract stipulated that it must be “made of Lockport stone.” Originally, the main entrance faced Niagara Street and was marked by a tower topped by a statue of the Goddess of Justice.
When the government outgrew the courthouse, an addition was approved and undertaken 1914-1915. A new layout changed the orientation of the building to now face on Hawley Street. The imposing tower was removed and replaced with a rotunda and portico.
By the 1950s, another addition was needed and completed in 1958. This modern office building annex houses the County Clerk’s Office, and nearly all architectural references to the original 1886 construction disappeared.
The County Clerk’s Building on the opposite corner was constructed by Benjamin and James Carpenter. Benjamin would later become the first Mayor of the City of Lockport. In 1917, the building was enlarged with a L-shaped addition wrapping around the west and south sides of the original edifice. A dome and skylight was added at that time. In 1961, the building was repurposed to become Civil Defense headquarters, complete with an air raid shelter in the basement. The County Clerk’s Building currently houses the County Historian's Office and the Public Defender’s Office.
“The National Register of Historic Places endeavors to save and protect important places and buildings in our community. The William G. Pomeroy Foundation has generously donated grant money for appropriate signage. This helps to highlight, educate, and alert citizens and visitors to the significance of these structures,” added Legislator Anthony Nemi.
According to County Historian Catherine Emerson, the current courthouse was erected in 1886. Its contract stipulated that it must be “made of Lockport stone.” Originally, the main entrance faced Niagara Street and was marked by a tower topped by a statue of the Goddess of Justice.
When the government outgrew the courthouse, an addition was approved and undertaken 1914-1915. A new layout changed the orientation of the building to now face on Hawley Street. The imposing tower was removed and replaced with a rotunda and portico.
By the 1950s, another addition was needed and completed in 1958. This modern office building annex houses the County Clerk’s Office, and nearly all architectural references to the original 1886 construction disappeared.
The County Clerk’s Building on the opposite corner was constructed by Benjamin and James Carpenter. Benjamin would later become the first Mayor of the City of Lockport. In 1917, the building was enlarged with a L-shaped addition wrapping around the west and south sides of the original edifice. A dome and skylight was added at that time. In 1961, the building was repurposed to become Civil Defense headquarters, complete with an air raid shelter in the basement. The County Clerk’s Building currently houses the County Historian's Office and the Public Defender’s Office.
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Thursday, April 2, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
Transit Drive-In owner Rick Cohen will be the guest speaker for a presentation on the history of drive-ins at 2 p.m. April 11 at the Niagara History Center.
The Transit Drive-In — one of two still operating in East Niagara — opened in 1952 and was purchased by the Cohen family five years later. Cohen has many stories to share of growing up in this most unique family business that is now 58 years old.
Western New York was home to a wealth of drive-ins in their heyday. Cohen will discuss how the drive-in originated in the 1930s and reminisce about Erie and Niagara County drive-ins we visited in days gone by. Many Americans fell in love with drive-ins in their glory years, journeying to them in the “sofas on wheels” of the 1950’s. Today, minivans can hold an entire family and then some as everyone makes a night of it in front of the big screen. Cohen will describe what the future holds for this beloved form of entertainment.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
Transit Drive-In owner Rick Cohen will discuss the history of drive-in
theaters at a program on April 11. (Copyright J.R. Eyerman / Time & Life Pictures/Getty Images) |
The Transit Drive-In — one of two still operating in East Niagara — opened in 1952 and was purchased by the Cohen family five years later. Cohen has many stories to share of growing up in this most unique family business that is now 58 years old.
Western New York was home to a wealth of drive-ins in their heyday. Cohen will discuss how the drive-in originated in the 1930s and reminisce about Erie and Niagara County drive-ins we visited in days gone by. Many Americans fell in love with drive-ins in their glory years, journeying to them in the “sofas on wheels” of the 1950’s. Today, minivans can hold an entire family and then some as everyone makes a night of it in front of the big screen. Cohen will describe what the future holds for this beloved form of entertainment.
Monday, March 9, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
Former Niagara County Legislator Lee Simonson will present a series of eight stories on events that impacted American history in "Eight Miracles that Saved America" at 2 p.m. March 26 at the Niagara History Center, 215 Niagara St.
Simonson, a past president of the Historical Association of Lewiston, will speculate about what really happened in each instance — taking place from 1755-1942 — and explore whether the outcome was blind luck or truly a miracle.
“Some of the things that happened are more like Ripley’s ‘Believe it or Not,’ but each provided a critical tipping point in America’s creation and survival,” he says. “Did God have a hand in America’s success? Did miracles really happen? We’ll examine the evidence and folks can come to their own conclusions.”
Named Town of Lewiston Citizen of the Year in 2014, Simonson was also awarded the national Spirit of 1812 award in Washington, D.C., last April for his 1812 Bicentennial volunteer work, including directing Lewiston’s Tuscarora Heroes Monument project and the Battle of Queenstown Heights reenactment in Ontario. In addition to leading the Historical Association of Lewiston, he was also director of the Freedom Crossing Monument.
Simonson served as a Niagara County Legislator for 32 years, retiring in 2005. He has since devoted his time to his businesses and volunteering for historical projects and causes.
Donations will be accepted at the program, which includes refreshments. Call 434-7433 for details.
news@eastniagarapost.com
Simonson, a past president of the Historical Association of Lewiston, will speculate about what really happened in each instance — taking place from 1755-1942 — and explore whether the outcome was blind luck or truly a miracle.
“Some of the things that happened are more like Ripley’s ‘Believe it or Not,’ but each provided a critical tipping point in America’s creation and survival,” he says. “Did God have a hand in America’s success? Did miracles really happen? We’ll examine the evidence and folks can come to their own conclusions.”
Named Town of Lewiston Citizen of the Year in 2014, Simonson was also awarded the national Spirit of 1812 award in Washington, D.C., last April for his 1812 Bicentennial volunteer work, including directing Lewiston’s Tuscarora Heroes Monument project and the Battle of Queenstown Heights reenactment in Ontario. In addition to leading the Historical Association of Lewiston, he was also director of the Freedom Crossing Monument.
Simonson served as a Niagara County Legislator for 32 years, retiring in 2005. He has since devoted his time to his businesses and volunteering for historical projects and causes.
Donations will be accepted at the program, which includes refreshments. Call 434-7433 for details.
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Tuesday, March 3, 2015
 |
| Lockport's first female mayor, Joan Radecke, speaks Monday about Belva Lockwood for a video celebrating the city's 150th birthday. More testimonials are being recorded today at LCTV. The public is invited to participate. (PHOTOS BY SCOTT LEFFLER / ENP STAFF) |
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
WLVL's Paul Oates displays an Oates
Dairy milk bottle during his video
segment recorded Monday.
|
The video, part of the City of Lockport Sesquicentennial Committee's plans to celebrate the city's 150th birthday, asks area residents to highlight the city’s history by documenting 150 facts about Lockport.
Anyone interested in being a part of this community effort is asked to go to the community television station between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m. today to be recorded stating a fact or telling a brief story about the City of Lockport.
When it is completed, the video will be shown at the Historic Palace Theatre on April 11, the 150th anniversary of the founding of the City of Lockport. It will also be available for purchase on DVD as part of the fundraising effort to pay for the many Sesquicentennial celebration events to be held June 27 - July 5.
Any questions may be emailed to Lockport150@gmail.com.
For instant access to East Niagara Post's YouTube videos, social media feeds and more,
Friday, February 20, 2015
My biggest problem with Democrats is that they want too much control over what I do with my money. My biggest problem with Republicans is that they want too much control over what I do with my body.
My second biggest problem with Republicans is their blatant denial of the truth on account of the fact that they don't like it. It's like sticking your fingers in your ear and saying "I can't hear you," except it's done by adults — and with potentially severe ramifications.
For instance, Oklahoma lawmakers are steadfast in their effort to block funding for Advanced Placement U.S. history courses, saying the curriculum is not patriotic enough. They're not actually saying it's inaccurate, mind you. Just that they don't like it.
Actually, the wording of HB 1380, a real bill in the Oklahoma House, states that AP History doesn't focus enough attention on “American exceptionalism.” It passed out of committee with 11 Republican votes and no Democratic votes (out of a possible four).
And Oklahoma's not alone in their denial of a historically accurate history.
The Republican-controlled Texas Board of Education asked the College Board — the organization that administers the AP tests — to rewrite the U.S. history curriculum.
Let's try that again for effect:
The Republican-controlled Texas Board of Education asked the College Board — the organization that administers the AP tests — to rewrite
Republicans tried something similar in Colorado.
Here's an idea to Republicans: If you want history to feature "American exceptionalism," make America exceptional. You're the ones with the reins. So instead of fighting about funding for high school history classes, fix our nation's broken infrastructure, cure diseases, fight poverty, end hunger, house the homeless. You know, do something exceptional.
Kudos to my 17-year-old daughter for bringing this one to my attention. She was — understandably — upset about it. And while she may not read her father's columns, no one can accuse her of being uninformed. At least not unless Republicans get their way.
+Scott Leffler is a registered Libertarian who despises Republicans ... and Democrats ... and most Libertarians, too, actually. Follow him on Twitter @scottleffler.
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Tuesday, February 3, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
The Niagara County History Center will hold “Soup & Civil War Songs,” Feb. 21, as the Union Volunteer Fife and Drum Corps brings “Field Music of the Civil War” into our world of 2015. Soup’s on at noon, followed by the program.
Fifer Jim Pace and drummer Brian Seibel will re-enact as a historically accurate infantry fife and drum corps of two field musicians in full uniformed regalia, performing and demonstrating Civil War military music on their replica instruments. They will also tell us of music’s role in the military and musicians’ lives.
Both Union and Confederate companies of approximately 100 men had two musicians, a fifer and drummer, in this role. The re-enactors accurately recreate the performances of Northern Union musicians charged with the martial music of the American Civil War.
“The tradition of field music goes back centuries to ancient Rome,” says Pace. “It reached its high point during the Civil War. Field music controlled every military aspect from dawn to dusk - marching, camp duties, ceremonies, battlefield signals and entertainment. The fife and drum corps is the forgotten part of the war.”
Pace, a retired music educator, is an active re-enactor and historian for the Town of West Seneca. He is also a member of “The Frankfurters,” which performed at our recent Oktoberfest.
Seibel, a free-lance percussionist, has spent decades re-enacting and researching Civil War music.
The Union Volunteer Fife and Drum Corps is affiliated with the 155th NY Volunteer Infantry. The Corps’ program will also include a Power Point presentation rich in historical photos and information.
Lunch will offer several varieties of hot soup, bread, desserts and beverages, all for a requested donation of $5.
Attendance is limited to the first 60 people, so make your reservations now by calling the History Center at 434-7433.
As the 150th anniversary of the Civil War concludes in 2015, the History Center will commemorate those who served with this program and a later presentation by local Civil War researcher Ted Jackson, who will present “The Men of Battery M: Niagara County Answers the Call to the Civil War.”
The Union’s Battery M, 1st NY Light Artillery Regiment, was organized in Lockport primarily with Niagara
County men. Battery M saw service in the war’s significant battles, including Gettysburg, Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, as well as Sherman’s March to the Sea.
Jackson will speak about local men who served and the monument to their valor at Gettysburg, as well as an adopted Battery M animal comrade who found a home and final resting place in Niagara County.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
Fifer Jim Pace and drummer Brian Seibel, re-enacting as a Civil
War fife and drum corps, will appear at the Niagara History
Center’s “Soup and Civil War Songs” event on Feb. 21.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
|
Fifer Jim Pace and drummer Brian Seibel will re-enact as a historically accurate infantry fife and drum corps of two field musicians in full uniformed regalia, performing and demonstrating Civil War military music on their replica instruments. They will also tell us of music’s role in the military and musicians’ lives.
Both Union and Confederate companies of approximately 100 men had two musicians, a fifer and drummer, in this role. The re-enactors accurately recreate the performances of Northern Union musicians charged with the martial music of the American Civil War.
“The tradition of field music goes back centuries to ancient Rome,” says Pace. “It reached its high point during the Civil War. Field music controlled every military aspect from dawn to dusk - marching, camp duties, ceremonies, battlefield signals and entertainment. The fife and drum corps is the forgotten part of the war.”
Pace, a retired music educator, is an active re-enactor and historian for the Town of West Seneca. He is also a member of “The Frankfurters,” which performed at our recent Oktoberfest.
Seibel, a free-lance percussionist, has spent decades re-enacting and researching Civil War music.
The Union Volunteer Fife and Drum Corps is affiliated with the 155th NY Volunteer Infantry. The Corps’ program will also include a Power Point presentation rich in historical photos and information.
Lunch will offer several varieties of hot soup, bread, desserts and beverages, all for a requested donation of $5.
Attendance is limited to the first 60 people, so make your reservations now by calling the History Center at 434-7433.
As the 150th anniversary of the Civil War concludes in 2015, the History Center will commemorate those who served with this program and a later presentation by local Civil War researcher Ted Jackson, who will present “The Men of Battery M: Niagara County Answers the Call to the Civil War.”
The Union’s Battery M, 1st NY Light Artillery Regiment, was organized in Lockport primarily with Niagara
County men. Battery M saw service in the war’s significant battles, including Gettysburg, Antietam, Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville, as well as Sherman’s March to the Sea.
Jackson will speak about local men who served and the monument to their valor at Gettysburg, as well as an adopted Battery M animal comrade who found a home and final resting place in Niagara County.
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Monday, February 2, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
Children ages seven through twelve are invited to celebrate Presidents’ Day at the History Center of Niagara County from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Feb. 16.
This year’s program will highlight the similarities and differences between the two men who were President during the Civil War years – Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis. Through stories, games and hands-on activities children will learn about these two leaders, their families and how they influenced the Union and the Confederacy during their tenure as President. Participants will also make toys that would have been played with by the Lincoln and Davis children. A noontime snack will also be served while the children hear the story of Grace Bedell, the Westfield girl who convinced Lincoln to grow a beard.
The cost of the program is $10.00 per child. Reservations are required. Parents are encouraged to leave their children for the duration of the program.
Call 434-7433 or email the History Center at history11@verizon.net for reservations and more information. Minimum of 10 children are required for the program to take place.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
President Abraham Lincoln reads to his son
Tad. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
|
This year’s program will highlight the similarities and differences between the two men who were President during the Civil War years – Abraham Lincoln and Jefferson Davis. Through stories, games and hands-on activities children will learn about these two leaders, their families and how they influenced the Union and the Confederacy during their tenure as President. Participants will also make toys that would have been played with by the Lincoln and Davis children. A noontime snack will also be served while the children hear the story of Grace Bedell, the Westfield girl who convinced Lincoln to grow a beard.
The cost of the program is $10.00 per child. Reservations are required. Parents are encouraged to leave their children for the duration of the program.
Call 434-7433 or email the History Center at history11@verizon.net for reservations and more information. Minimum of 10 children are required for the program to take place.
For instant access to East Niagara Post's YouTube videos, social media feeds and more,
Thursday, January 29, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
A new book published by the Niagara County Historian’s office takes readers back almost 140 years to compare late 19th-Century locales to their present-day counterparts.
The 246-page pictorial publication begins in an era when Victorian architecture, steam powered machinery and large, prosperous farms were common sights in Niagara County, as told by a reprinting of a 1879 book by "History of Niagara County, N.Y. with Illustrations Descriptive of Its Scenery, Private Residences, Public Buildings, Fine Blocks, and Important Manufactories, and Portrait of Old Pioneers and Prominent Residents;" a volume that offered 19th century readers an impressive array of detailed drawings that showed prominent area homes, farms, industrial works and landmarks.
The 2015 edition is not just a reprint of the original work. Over the past two years, historian’s office staff members have researched the locations of the original scenes that stretch from Somerset to North Tonawanda and Royalton to Porter. Once the location of an original drawing was identified, historian’s office staff photographed the scene as it appears today so readers can compare how the Niagara County landscape has changed over the years in a “then and now” format.
Several of the illustrations depict scenes that have changed little in 136 years such as the James M. Morse Residence in the Town of Wilson. Others like the Edwin Whitcomb Farm in the Town of Hartland reveal how the forces of industrialization, suburbanization and social and economic change has greatly altered the local landscape.
Sanford’s Niagara: A Then And Now Collection 1878 - 2014 is priced at $24.95 and will be available for purchase at The Niagara County Historians Office, Ticklebridge Co-op, The Dory, Old Fort Niagara Gift Shop, and at other area locations.
For more information please call the Historian’s office at 439-7324 or email Historian@NiagaraCounty.com.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
This book was put together by the Niagara County
Historian's Office. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
|
The 246-page pictorial publication begins in an era when Victorian architecture, steam powered machinery and large, prosperous farms were common sights in Niagara County, as told by a reprinting of a 1879 book by "History of Niagara County, N.Y. with Illustrations Descriptive of Its Scenery, Private Residences, Public Buildings, Fine Blocks, and Important Manufactories, and Portrait of Old Pioneers and Prominent Residents;" a volume that offered 19th century readers an impressive array of detailed drawings that showed prominent area homes, farms, industrial works and landmarks.
The 2015 edition is not just a reprint of the original work. Over the past two years, historian’s office staff members have researched the locations of the original scenes that stretch from Somerset to North Tonawanda and Royalton to Porter. Once the location of an original drawing was identified, historian’s office staff photographed the scene as it appears today so readers can compare how the Niagara County landscape has changed over the years in a “then and now” format.
Several of the illustrations depict scenes that have changed little in 136 years such as the James M. Morse Residence in the Town of Wilson. Others like the Edwin Whitcomb Farm in the Town of Hartland reveal how the forces of industrialization, suburbanization and social and economic change has greatly altered the local landscape.
Sanford’s Niagara: A Then And Now Collection 1878 - 2014 is priced at $24.95 and will be available for purchase at The Niagara County Historians Office, Ticklebridge Co-op, The Dory, Old Fort Niagara Gift Shop, and at other area locations.
For more information please call the Historian’s office at 439-7324 or email Historian@NiagaraCounty.com.
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Saturday, January 17, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
Musician and re-enactor Ron Cary will perform “18th Century Tavern Music of the Niagara Frontier” at 1:30 p.m. Jan. 31 at the Erie Canal Discovery Center.
Cary, a deputy Niagara County historian and long-time re-enactor at Old Fort Niagara, is also an accomplished singer and guitarist. He has researched and developed the persona of an itinerant 18th century tavern singer and performs as an outreach effort of the Niagara County Historian’s Office. Cary’s presentation will include 18th century period songs with their meanings, including past and present versions; clothing and fashion; and musical practices of that time.
His tavern songs include songs of love, from joyous to tragic, songs of home, melancholy and nostalgia, lullabies and more. They feature the countryside, common folk and their lives, soldiers and wartime, sailors and the sea, and characters such as rascals, outlaws and wenches. Drinking songs and bawdy ballads are included – be aware that tavern songs are meant for an adult audience and some could have the equivalent of an “R rating.”
Cary performs as this character at the Fort’s 12th Night Ball, Tavern Nights, French and Indian War Encampment, Castle by Candlelight and other events. He also presents at the Fort on Sundays during warm weather.
Prior to becoming a Deputy Niagara County Historian, Cary taught Chorus and General Music for over 40 years in the North Tonawanda City School District. He holds degrees in Music Education from Syracuse University and the University of Buffalo.
Admission to this event and the exhibits of the Erie Canal Discovery Center and Penney Gallery is free. For more information, call 439-0431.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
Ron Cary performs as an itinerant 18th century tavern singer.
He will appear at the Erie Canal Discovery Center Jan. 31.
(CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
|
Cary, a deputy Niagara County historian and long-time re-enactor at Old Fort Niagara, is also an accomplished singer and guitarist. He has researched and developed the persona of an itinerant 18th century tavern singer and performs as an outreach effort of the Niagara County Historian’s Office. Cary’s presentation will include 18th century period songs with their meanings, including past and present versions; clothing and fashion; and musical practices of that time.
His tavern songs include songs of love, from joyous to tragic, songs of home, melancholy and nostalgia, lullabies and more. They feature the countryside, common folk and their lives, soldiers and wartime, sailors and the sea, and characters such as rascals, outlaws and wenches. Drinking songs and bawdy ballads are included – be aware that tavern songs are meant for an adult audience and some could have the equivalent of an “R rating.”
Cary performs as this character at the Fort’s 12th Night Ball, Tavern Nights, French and Indian War Encampment, Castle by Candlelight and other events. He also presents at the Fort on Sundays during warm weather.
Prior to becoming a Deputy Niagara County Historian, Cary taught Chorus and General Music for over 40 years in the North Tonawanda City School District. He holds degrees in Music Education from Syracuse University and the University of Buffalo.
Admission to this event and the exhibits of the Erie Canal Discovery Center and Penney Gallery is free. For more information, call 439-0431.
For instant access to East Niagara Post's YouTube videos, social media feeds and more,
Saturday, January 10, 2015
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
The Niagara County History Center will celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day exploring the legacy of the Underground Railroad in Niagara County.
Jan. 19, children ages 7-12 can find out how local citizens assisted people who were fleeing from slavery in the South and learn about the challenges they faced on their journey. The program will include stories, games, artifacts and hands-on activities to teach children about this important part of our national and local history.
Attendees will learn about the background of slavery and the Underground Railroad, and the role of local Quakers; take part in four skits involving real local people; assemble a bundle to carry on an Underground Railroad trip; watch a video about Murphy’s Orchards in Burt, an Underground Railroad stop; and learn about coding and language on the Underground Railroad, plus unusual escapes.
The program runs from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. A snack will also be provided. The cost of the program is $10 per child. Reservations are required. Parents are encouraged to leave their children for the duration of the program.
Call the History Center at 434-7433 or email annmarie@niagarahistory.org for reservations and more information.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
A woodcut image of a fugitive slave was
used in wanted posters of the mid-1800s.
|
Jan. 19, children ages 7-12 can find out how local citizens assisted people who were fleeing from slavery in the South and learn about the challenges they faced on their journey. The program will include stories, games, artifacts and hands-on activities to teach children about this important part of our national and local history.
Attendees will learn about the background of slavery and the Underground Railroad, and the role of local Quakers; take part in four skits involving real local people; assemble a bundle to carry on an Underground Railroad trip; watch a video about Murphy’s Orchards in Burt, an Underground Railroad stop; and learn about coding and language on the Underground Railroad, plus unusual escapes.
The program runs from 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. A snack will also be provided. The cost of the program is $10 per child. Reservations are required. Parents are encouraged to leave their children for the duration of the program.
Call the History Center at 434-7433 or email annmarie@niagarahistory.org for reservations and more information.
For instant access to East Niagara Post's YouTube videos, social media feeds and more,
Monday, November 10, 2014
ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com
A new History Center exhibit honors “The Duke of Lockport,” famed Lockport boxer Jimmy Duffy, who fought as a lightweight and welterweight from 1908-1921. Born on Gooding Street to an Irish-American family in 1889, Duffy put Lockport on the map in the boxing world, fighting in over 200 matches and ending his career with 32 KO’s.
Duffy was raised predominately by his maternal grandparents and grew up with hopes of becoming a boxer. As a young Lockport boy he played baseball and began fundamental training in boxing at the North End Athletic Club.
Even though Duffy never competed in a title match for the award of “World Champion,” he took on numerous champs with skill and style and won several of those matches. He faced Champions Jack Britton, Benny Leonard, Ted Lewis, Johnny Dundee, Freddie Welsh and Rocky Kansas. Posters from some of these famous fights are displayed in the exhibit.
Duffy married the former Alice Barrett of Lockport’s First Ward. After retiring from boxing he served as a night deputy in the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, being reappointed every three years for 27 years. During World War II he took part in benefit fights for injured soldiers in New York City.
A fall and resulting hip injury spelled chronic health problems for Duffy, who later battled back from five strokes. He died in 1960 at the age of 70 and is buried in Lockport’s St. Patrick’s Cemetery.
The History Center exhibit displays Duffy’s sparring and fighting gloves, some from his matches against World Champions. It also includes his boxing shorts and sweater, plus a collection of photos from his boxing and Sheriff’s Department careers, and proclamations honoring him throughout his life. Some are on loan from a private collector.
The exhibit is open through January.
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Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
news@eastniagarapost.com
 |
Lockport boxer Jimmy Duffy’s career spanned from 1908-
1921. (CONTRIBUTED PHOTO)
|
Duffy was raised predominately by his maternal grandparents and grew up with hopes of becoming a boxer. As a young Lockport boy he played baseball and began fundamental training in boxing at the North End Athletic Club.
Even though Duffy never competed in a title match for the award of “World Champion,” he took on numerous champs with skill and style and won several of those matches. He faced Champions Jack Britton, Benny Leonard, Ted Lewis, Johnny Dundee, Freddie Welsh and Rocky Kansas. Posters from some of these famous fights are displayed in the exhibit.
Duffy married the former Alice Barrett of Lockport’s First Ward. After retiring from boxing he served as a night deputy in the Niagara County Sheriff’s Department, being reappointed every three years for 27 years. During World War II he took part in benefit fights for injured soldiers in New York City.
A fall and resulting hip injury spelled chronic health problems for Duffy, who later battled back from five strokes. He died in 1960 at the age of 70 and is buried in Lockport’s St. Patrick’s Cemetery.
The History Center exhibit displays Duffy’s sparring and fighting gloves, some from his matches against World Champions. It also includes his boxing shorts and sweater, plus a collection of photos from his boxing and Sheriff’s Department careers, and proclamations honoring him throughout his life. Some are on loan from a private collector.
The exhibit is open through January.
Send an email to news@eastniagarapost.com with "email update" in the subject line.
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