The Buffalo History Museum — Attraction in Buffalo

The Buffalo History Museum, formerly known as the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society, is a notable institution that plays a significant role in preserving the history of Buffalo, New York, and the surrounding Erie County. It was established in 1862, making it one of the oldest historical organizations in the United States dedicated to preserving, collecting, and interpreting the history of the region.

Museum's Own History The museum's original building, known as the Pan-American Building, is itself a historical artifact. It was constructed as the New York State pavilion for the Pan-American Exposition in 1901. After the exposition, the building was repurposed to house the museum, serving as a vivid reminder of Buffalo's place in early 20th-century American history. The structure is an architectural marvel, designed in the Beaux-Arts style, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Collections and Exhibitions The Buffalo History Museum boasts an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and photographs that chronicle the rich history of Buffalo and Erie County. Its collections cover various aspects of local history, from the indigenous peoples of the region to its development as a major industrial center. The museum frequently updates its exhibitions, offering both permanent displays and temporary exhibits that delve into specific historical themes, figures, or events.

Events Open to the Public The Buffalo History Museum hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, catering to all ages and interests. These events include:

Lectures and Workshops: Experts and historians often give talks on various aspects of Buffalo's history, offering insights into the city's past and its impact on the present and future.

Family-Friendly Activities: The museum organizes activities designed for families and children, such as hands-on workshops, storytelling sessions, and interactive exhibits, to make history accessible and engaging for younger audiences.

Special Exhibitions: Temporary exhibitions on specific topics related to Buffalo and Erie County's history are regularly featured, providing fresh and intriguing perspectives on the area's past.

Community Events: The museum participates in and hosts community events, including history fairs, cultural celebrations, and holiday-themed activities, fostering a sense of community and belonging among visitors.

Research Opportunities: For those interested in delving deeper into local history, the museum offers access to its library and archives, providing a wealth of resources for research and study.

Educational Programs In addition to events and exhibitions, The Buffalo History Museum is committed to educational outreach. It provides programs for students, teachers, and researchers, including guided tours, educational materials, and professional development workshops, emphasizing the importance of history in education and community life.

The Buffalo History Museum serves as a guardian of the region's history, offering a window into the past for residents and visitors alike. It plays a crucial role in educating the public about Buffalo's unique heritage and continues to be a center for community engagement and historical...

Better late than never...

June 11, 2024.

I was accommodated for a tour of the facilities on a day when the museum is closed to the public. During the hour-long I learned a lot regarding employment within a history museum along with the rich history of Buffalo, the Pan-American Exposition, and other aspects of New York.

The research library was a part of the tour, where I met Cynthia, who presented me with hard copies about conducting research. She informed me that Anthony is always reading and researching in the library there. It was fun laughing with her over my describing my research paper that was written about the Edenton Tea Party.

Growing up, I Love Lucy was one of the shows I watched. I had no clue Lucille Ball was a New Yorker until this visit. Anthony informed me that a slice of President Grover Cleveland's wedding cake is in the care of the museum…how cool!

I learned from Anthony that Leon Czolgosz was the assassin of President William McKinley and that the Italians were blamed for this. People should always be kind and that includes not spreading misinformation. Czolgosz, who was Polish, acted alone.

June 14, 2024.

I returned for a visit to take my time with the exhibits and bumped into an adorable, middle-aged woman when her husband ended up lost in the museum, so we took the stairs, looked for nautilus fossils in its steps, explored the second floor together, and shared a conversation about Jacqueline Kennedy.

Everyone I met there was so sweet. The museum needs to hang on to Ms. Reed, Mr. Greco, Ms. Van Ness, and Ms. Brown.

The New York State Building is an architectural beauty. I was happy to see a statue of my favorite president, Abraham Lincoln.

The cherry trees reminded me of a cherry tree with white blossoms that belonged to my mom and the lake provided a sense of peace. I love Frederick Law Olmsted's work - Belle Isle, Central Park, the grounds at Biltmore Estate, and...

Sun Aug 6th, 2023 The history of the city of Buffalo comes alive at the Buffalo History Museum. This large three-story museum takes you on a tour of Buffalo like you've never seen before. There are many exhibits covering the many achievements made in Buffalo in history, culture, arts, sports, entertainment, and politics, just to name a few. As a frequent visitor to Buffalo, and having grown up across the lake In Crystal Beach, ON, there are still so many stories i am finding out about the history of Buffalo all the time. The Buffalo History Museum is an excellent way to. Learn about Buffalo and discover a newfound appreciation for New York's other big city.

We had a great time exploring the museum; we lost track of time, and we were the last people in the museum after closing time. The cost to enter the museum is very inexpensive, and a visit to the museum should be included in your next roguetrip to Buffalo. In the area where the museum is located, there are lovely parks to explore and statues to see (Lincoln x2, Michelangelo's David, and much more). Plus, the new art gallery is now open, as is the nearby Richardson hotel and the Forest Lawn cemetery, which is home to many notable Buffalonians, celebrities, and others. It is one of the most exciting cemeteries around.

We love visiting Buffalo - and discovering new and exciting things to do and learning stories of the City. A visit to The Buffalo History Museum is a great place to start on...