Archive - WNY Heritage

The Shelby Earthworks: An Ancient Indian Fort

Just southwest of Medina are "the remains of one of the most interesting ancient earthworks in the State." Archaeological findings over the past 40 years have reinterpreted the roots of this Indian site from early America.

Historian's Notebook: The Seneca Indian Park

A deeper exploration of the South Buffalo site uncovers people and places contributing to the historic significance of the region.

1780 British Warship is Found

Lost on Halloween in 1780, the British Brig-Sloop Ontario became known as the Holy Grail of Great Lakes shipwrecks. Now, after 228 years, this legendary warship from the American Revolution has been discovered deep in Lake Ontario.

A Visit to Niagara Falls

For centuries, people of all backgrounds and walks of life have recorded their impressions of Niagara Falls. Jack Wysocki provides a survey of these viewpoints, as well as the accompanying development — good and bad — of one of Western New York's most significant geographic features.

Erie County’s Hull House: Restoration and Re-Imagining in Progress

Research and renovation efforts are reviving this early 19th century home and farmstead to create a cultural heritage site for visitors to enjoy.

Lackawanna Steel and the Battleship Maine

Filled with rage, Americans vowed to never forget the USS Maine, which exploded near Cuba in 1898. Now we remember the key role a local steel company played in raising the wreckage and honoring her crewmembers.

Happy Anniversary! Celebrating 150 years of Buffalo’s Cultural Institutions

It’s been 150 years of innovation for the Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences, the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society and the Buffalo Fine Arts Academy. This is how it all began.

Endnotes: "Sighting Freedom" Melds History and Art

An upcoming summer event at the Commercial Slip blends history and interpretive dance.

Western New York Heritage

The Archive