Leonard Rambler Steel was always thinking big, and his approach to business made him – and his employees – very successful. But when the L.R. Steel Co. grew too big, too fast, the fallout was felt nationwide. 

While cobblestone masonry isn't unique to Western New York, about 75 percent of cobblestone buildings in the country are within 75 miles of Rochester. Not limited to one design-style, the cobblestones in Niagara and Orleans counties show impressive variety.

During World War II, Western New York sent thousands of aircraft to the Allies through Lend-Lease. The recent return of one of them provides an opportunity to explore the larger significance of that contribution.

Tony Sisti was a man as comfortable in boxing trunks as he was in a painter's smock and beret. Today lesser known than some of his contemporaries, an exhibit at the Burchfield Penney Art Center is reminding the art community of Sisti's skill.

Buffalo has long been known for unique residential designs commissioned by the city's elite. But middle-class Buffalonians were not deprived of well-designed homes. Plan book houses were affordable and attractive, with numerous examples in Western New York.

Prompted by the $1.3 million sale of the Towers, we take a look at the history of the former Hotel Statler.