History

Salem Chapel was built in 1855 and was an important center of 19th-century abolitionist and civil rights activity in Canada. Harriet Tubman, the famous Underground Railroad (UGRR) conductor, lived near here from 1851 to 1858 and is traditionally associated with Salem Chapel. Many of those aided to freedom became church members and put down roots in the local community. The auditory-hall design typifies the style associated with other Underground Railroad-related churches in Ontario.

The Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge was the world's first working railway suspension bridge.

"In 1810, the few settlers under of the village under the leadership of pioneeers Bates Cooke and Benjamin Barton petitioned the state of New York to have this area changed from a public square to building lots for purposes of selling. Benjamin Barton was commissioned by the land office to have it surveyed and presented for approval to the New York Legislature.

Forest Lawn Sunday In The Cemetery Tours. Join us for a delightful approximately 1.5-hour walking or trolley tour through Buffalo New York's historic Forest Lawn Cemetery, where you’ll learn about our history, art, architecture, wildlife, natural wonders and many of our famous residents. You’ll have a chance to meet a few of our residents along the way, as you enjoy the beauty and serenity of this beautiful, 269-acre jewel – one of Buffalo’s first landscaped green spaces.

In 1907, Buffalo was booming. With her growing needs the city signed a contract with Buffalo Dredging Company. They began work on a 6,600 ft. tunnel from the future sight of the Col. F. G. Ward Pumping Station, to the carefully chosen sight of the new water intake in the Emerald Channel near the Horseshoe Reef Lighthouse.

Founded in 1849, with more than 152,000 residents at its 269 acres, Forest Lawn is one of America's premier historic cemeteries.

For a time, Bertie Hall was the third stop on the Underground Railroad, which led slaves to Freedom in the Canadian north. Slaves would cross the Niagara River under the cover of darkness, and once on the Canadian shore, make their way to Bertie Hall to regroup and hide out. A mysterious tunnel is said to have led from the river's shore to the building's basement, but while local legend supports this claim, no turnnel has been found to date.

Fort Niagara was established in 1726, on the northeastern shore of the Niagara River, facing Lake Ontario. "The French Castle", as the fort was nicknamed, was constructed in a region of growing importance to French fur traders. The fort was used as a day mark for the traders.

The Niagara County Historical Society Complex presents a glimpse of area life in Niagara County over the last 175 years. The Outwater Memorial Building, 215 Niagara Street, Lockport, NY, is the headquarters for the Niagara County Historical Society. Erie Canal Discovery Center part of the Niagara County Historical Society Museum ComplexThis 1863 brick home features a Victorian Parlor, Historic Pantry, Old Toy Room, the Civil War Room and a Changing Exhibit Room.