Court of Appeals Case No. 254, Folios 10851–1089; John Chadwick v. John Fonner et al., 1876.pdf
Court of Appeals case and exceptions in the Johnson/Fonner land dispute, 1849–1876
Memorial Pool renovation plans (1986-11-11).pdf
Memorial Pool, North Tonawanda, selected original blueprints (Wesley Bintz, 1946).gal
Testimonial from Pop Ramsay for Bintz Memorial Pool (Modern Swimming, catalog p53, letter 1948-07-22).jpg
Modern Swimming Pools, catalog of Bintz pools (complete text), plus NT-related excerpts (1950).pdf
Loaded with photos, ads, financial breakdowns and testimonials for Wesley Bintz-designed pools. Excerpts include the Kiddies Wading Pool which was a feature of the original Payne Park Memorial Pool before making way for the guard house, and an illustration of the "Extended Front" which North Tonawanda's pool would have had but for budgetary restrictions. Also at archive.org.
Pickard family get Jacob Hook's land south of Johnsons, notice (1866-07-09).jpg
By 1866, the land immediately south of the Johnson twelve-acre corner was being sold under court judgment against Jacob Hook and others. That helps show the Johnson parcel had a recognizable boundary at its southern edge before the later Fonner/Chadwick judgment deed.
Johnsons' 12.4 acres in Lot 10, 1938 aerial photo.jpg
Montgomery Rasch, obituary (Buffalo News, 1969-07-28)
Montgomery Rasch Dies at 39; Leader In North Tonawanda Memorial services for Montgomery Rasch, 39, businessman and community leader, will be held 11 AM tomorrow in the First United Methodist Church. Mr. Rasch, a member of the church's official board, died Saturday night (July 26, 1969) after a long illness. A community leader in North Tonawanda, he was chairman of the North Tonawanda Youth Board three years. He also served as a member of the Salvation Army Advisory Board, past skipper of Sea Scouts Ship 428 and a member of the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 860. In January he was named Elk of the Year, the first person so honored. He held numerous positions in the lodge, among them chairman of youth activities for 10 years. He also was past district chairman of youth activities the New York State Lodge.' Mr. Rasch was past district commander of Tonawanda District Boy Scouts, a past chairman and former member of the Niagara County Juvenile Aid Bureau, Fund worker and a a a a a a of the "member executive board of the Niagara City Association of Town Superintendents. He was vice-president of Riverside Chemical Co., North Tonawanda. He attended North Tonawanda schools, Greenbriar Military Academy, Lewisburg, W. Va., and The Citadel, Charleston, S. C. He served four years with the Navy. He is survived by his mother, Mrs. Marion H. Anthony; his wife, the former Marilyn Kowsky; three children, Montgomery Edward, Margaret and Martha; and a sister, Mrs. Gretchen R. Denk of Lewiston.
Sea Explorers Busy at Their Local Base, other Sea Wolf photos, article (Tonawanda News, 1950-10-03).pdf
Cemetery minutes trustees 1868-1878.docx
Minutes of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association Organization meeting — February 12, 1868 Cemetery minutes trustees 1868-1921 To the board of trustees of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery with the compliments of your BF Felton Tonawanda Minutes of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association Organized under a provision of an act authorizing the incorporation of Rural Association Vol 2nd P.P 635 Received Statutes of State Of New York Meetings of the citizens of Tonawanda Erie Co. in N.Y. and of the Citizens of North Tonawanda Niagara Co N.Y. having met at the council room of the Village of North Tonawanda Niagara co NY want it to notice Present: Hiram Newell Jacob Baker Edmond T (Ages?) George Backer David Robinson Elias P Brown Charles C Harris George W Sherman Benjamin F Felton George (?) Franklin Warren Whitman Jacobs Lewis S Payne Garwood L Judd On motion hon Hiram Newell was appointed president and Garwood Judd Secretary. It was moved and carried that we do now form a corporation under and by virtue of the statute + Known by the name of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery association. It was moved + it was moved and carried that six trustees be elected to compose a board of trustees of said cemetery. The following named gentlemen were by ballot duly elected. Franklin Warren Benjamin S Felton Hiram Newell Seldon Johnson John Simson Garwood L Judd The president and secretary did then immediately proceed to classify as follows. First class: Horam Newell Garwood Judd Second class: John Simson Benjamin F Felton Third class: Franklin Warren Seldon Johnson Motion was made and carried that the annual meeting in each year of the board of trustees shall be on the first Tuesday at 2 o’clock in the month of February. On motion the meeting is now adjourned. Signed: Garwood Judd Horam Newell The above meeting was held on the 12th Feb 1868 Meeting of the board of trustees of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association held at the office of GL Judd North Tonawanda Feb 19, 1868 Present: John Simson Hiram Newell Seldon G Johnson Benj F Felton Garood L Judd Franklin Warren On motion it was resolved that the following named gentlemen be chosen for the next year: Seldon Johnson President Garwood L Judd Vice “ Benjamin F Felton Secretary Hon Hiram Newell (?) On motion BF Felton was appointed a committee to inform Mr James Sweeney of the formation of this association and request his presence at the next meeting. On motion Mr F Warren was appointed a committee to inform Mrs C Sweeney of the formation of this association and to obtain such papers as were in her possession voluntarily to this association and present them to the secretary. GL Judd John Simson Meeting of the Board of Trustees for Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association held at the office of Sheldon Johnson Tonawanda July 1, 1868 Present: Seldon Johnson GL Judd BF Felton H Newell John Simson Meeting called to order by the president and the following business transacted. The secretary presented a deed of a certain portion of land known as the Col. John Sweeney’s Rural Cemetery grounds which has been given to the association by the heirs of Col John Sweeney. On motion the aforesaid was accepted and and the secretary was instructed to have the same recorded in the Niagara Clerks Office. On motion Hon Hiram Newell was appointed superintendent of the cemetery grounds. On motion GL Judd Esq. was appointed a committee to procure a statement of all monies received or paid out for improvements upon said cemetery grounds previous to the present time. On motion the secretary was appointed a committee to ascertain persons who have possession of certain lots in said cemetery grounds and ascertain the amounts due for said lots have been paid by them. On motion the secretary was (?) to procure such stationary as may be required for the use of this affirmation. On motion it was resolved that no burials will be allowed within the cemetery grounds without the written permission of the superintendent and that the secretary notify persons interested of the said resolution. On motion the office of Seldon Johnson was chosen as the office of this association and decided that all meetings should be held at that place. On motion the board adjourned until July 2nd at 8’Oclock PM. BF Felton Secretary Meeting of the board of Col. John Sweeney Rural cemetery association held at the office of Seldon Johnson Tonawanda July 2nd, 1868 Present: Seldon Johnson GL Judd BF Felton Hiram Newell John Simson esq The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. On motion Mr John Simson was appointed a committee to procure a suitable set of stairs to be placed in the south west corner of the cemetery grounds for the purpose of entering the cemetery. On motion the secretary was requested to report a form of Rules + Deeds + submit the same at the next meeting On a motion the meeting was adjourned to Thursday July 9th 1868 at 8 o’clock PM BF Felton Secretary Meeting of the board of trustees of Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery ? held at the office of Seldon Johnson Tonawanda July 9th 1868 Present: Seldon Johnson president Hiram Newell Garwood Judd Franklin Warren Minutes of the last not present therefore not read. GL Judd reported that he had received a written statement of HP Smith + the NY Erie Bank which was received to be acted upon by the board when called of. On motion the superintendent was instructed to employ Franklin Warren and other men to clean the walks and avenues in the cemetery and the amount of labor expended for such purpose shall not exceed the amount of one hundred dollars. On motion it was resolved the the president and ? be requested to executed deeds of lots to all parties who will pay for their lots and collect the money for the same until the next meeting of the board. On motion the meeting was adjourned until July 23rd at 8 O’clock PM GL Judd Meeting of the board of Trustees of Col. John Sweeney Rural cemetery Association held at the office of S Johnson Tonawanda July 23, 1868 Present: Seldon Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ BF Felton Secretary Hiram Newell Mas Franklin Warren Meeting called to order by the president and the minutes of the meeting of July 23 and July 9th were read and approved. The committee read rules and deeds reported and on motion the form henceforth which were then used and adopted. The committee treasurer upon the lots reported persons who had not paid + those who had paid for their lots as far as could be ascertained. In pursuance of motion authorizing the president + treasurer to issue a deeds to Cap Chas Kelly Lot #2 Section E for the sun of $215.00 The supt of the cemetery reported an expense of 38 days labor to the amount of $60. Said report not including the services of F Morrison? Also another expense to the amount of $9.00 for stake + lettering. On motion the president was appointed a committee to collect monies due for lots to tell the next meeting. On motion it was resolved that the sum of $10 be collected upon such lots ? …………added to the present price ? were issued by JD Vandervoort attorney. Monies due on all lots for the amount of funds for stamps to which accrue from the issuance of the new deeds. On motion the president and vice president were authorized to sell + receive moneys for the payment of the lots and issue the proper deeds therefor. On motion the president be authorized ti issue a deed to Elder Joshua Vincent to lot no 2 Section A for the amount of $15. On motion the meeting was then adjourned. BF Felton Secretary Meeting of the board of trustees of Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery association held at the offices of S Johnson Tonawanda October 8, 1868 Present: Seldon Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ BF Felton Secretary Hiram Newell Treasurer Franklin Warren esq The meeting was called to order and the minutes from the last meeting of July 23rd read and approved. The treasurer made report as follows Receipts since organization $206. Disbursements $83 Details for the receipts and disbursements will be found in cash book with the respective dates. On motion and order was directed to be drawn on the ? of Hiram Newell treasurer for the amount of $84 for bill rendered. On motion an order was directed to be drawn on by the treasurer in the amount of $27 for labor as per bill rendered. On motion an order was directed to be drawn in favor of John Simson for the amount of $14 as payment for building steps + for lumber for the same as per bill rendered. On motion the superintendent was directed to have the gate removed from it’s present location to the proper place as designated upon the cemetery map. On motion the superintendent was authorized to open and clean such avenues as be may deemed ? at the present time On motion the secretary was directed to notify the individuals who occupy lots unpaid for that they must pay for the same of remove the bodies deposited upon the lots. The persons to whom the secretary was requested to give said notice were: John Chadwick Mrs N Nugent A McGregory Marshal Fales David Robinson Mrs H Stanley Chas Calkins Thomas Ronley Mrs. James Ensley Mrs Moore ? SS McMerrick On motion the meeting was adjured subsequent to ? Call. BF Felton Secretary Meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Col. John Sweeney Cemetery Association held in the office of Seldon Johnson Nov 20, 1868 Present: S Johnson Pres GL Judd Vice “ BF Felton Secre. H Newell Treas. F Warren J Simson Minutes of the last meeting read and approved. The secretary reported notices to the persons occupying lots that were unpaid for . The treasurer reported the recept of $40 from the nugent , $25 from Mrs HP Stanley, $10 from GL Judd, and $25 from Wm Simson. Your treasurer also reported the following distribuments To BF Betts surveying $100 “ Sunday Persons $40 days labor $61.10 “ M Simson “ “ “ $2.00 D Bellinger for team $1.00 For stamps $2.00 On motion the order was drawn on the treasurer as follows in favor of H Newell paid for labor $66.60 Wm Simson $45.00 The subject matter of persons rendering services unpaid for upon the cemetery grounds was presented and the following bills were duly presented. Bill for services of Mr E Brown amounting to $62.12 upon which was ordered the sum of $57. Balances due Mr Brown $12.12 And on motion an order was drawn for the amount for the same. Also like bill presented from John Simson for the amount of $75. And on motion an order was drawn up for that amount. Also like Bill was presented from AG Kent for the amount of $25 and on motion and order was drawn up in that amount. Also like Bill presented from HP Smith for excess of payments over receipts of $21.87. The secretary was was directed to notify HP Smith that an over was directed to be drawn in his favor for the amount of $21.87 and upon paying to the treasurer the amount of $58.13 deeds for lots no. sec. Would be given to him. On motion the president was directed to enforce compliance with resolution ? served upon persons occupying unpaid for. On motion the meeting was adjured. BF Felton. Secretary Meeting of the board of Trustees for Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery association held at the office of S Johnson Feb 7th 1869 Present: S Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ BF Felton Secretary Hiram Newell Treasurer Meeting was called to order and the minutes from the last meeting were read + Approved. The treasurer reported he had received from Summer Newman $20 from GL Judd 50/100 from WM Hancock $12. From SP Hastings $10 Also reported the following disbursements. Paid LS Payne for recording in Niagara County Clerks Office the articles of the association and the deed of the grounds in the sum of $3. + for stamps $5. On motion Saturday the 2nd day of Feb 1869 at 2 O’clock was designated as the time for the elections of office in place of GL Judd + Hiram Newell whose term of office expired at that date. On motion the meeting was adjured til the 25th of Feb 1869 at 2 oclock pm. BF Felton Secy Meeting of the board of Trustees for Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association held Tonawanda Feb 24 1869 Present: SG Johnson Pres GL Judd Vice “ BF Felton Secry H Newell Treasurer Meeting called to order and the minutes of the last meeting read The stated day for the election of the trustees having arrived- On motion the lot owners conceded to the election. Upon Canvas of the votes, the following gentlemen were elected for the trustees: GL Judd Hiram Newell On motion the meeting was duly adjourned. Meeting of the board of trustees for Col.John Sweeney Rural Cemetery association of the office if SG Johnson Tonawanda on May 14, 1869 Present: SG Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ BF Felton Secry Hiram Newell Treasurer F Warren esq Minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. On motion the board proceeded to elect superintendent for the ensuing year and James Carney was duly elected. On motion the meeting was adjourned for one month. BF Felton Secry Regular meeting of the board of trustees of Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association held at the offices of SG Johnson Tonawanda May 21, 1869 Present: SG Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ H Newell Treasurer BF Felton Secry Franklin Warren The meeting was called to order and the minutes from the last meeting were read and approved. On motion the Supt Mr Carney, was directed to expend a sum of money not to exceed one hundred dollars in improvements to the grounds. On motion the meeting was adjourned. Meeting of the board of trustees of Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery association. Held Tonawanda March 5, 1870 Present: S Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ H Newell Treasurer F Warren Meeting called to order by the president and on motion G Judd was appointed secretary in term. On motion it was resolved whereas in consequence of the day for the annual election of the board of trustees having passed and that said election did not take place it was resolved that GL JUdd be hereby authorized to transmit to the lot owners a written notification that a special election would take place at the office of S Johnson on the 11th day of March 1870 for the election of two trustees in place of BF Felton and John Simson. On motion the board adjourned to meet at the office of S Johnson March 11, 1870. GL Judd Secty Meeting of the board of Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery association held at the offices of S Johnson Tonawanda March 11, 1870 Present: S Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ H Newell Treasurer BF Felton Franklin Warren The minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. The supt of the cemetery grounds made his report and presented his account the details of Which may be found in the book of the treasurer. The total amount of distributions during the year by him was $100.78 and on motion he was allowed and orders were directed to be drawn on the treasurer for the amount. Hon. Hiram Newell (Treasurer) furnished his financial report as follows The receipts for the season were William Clark $6.75 James S Se????lefield $1 EB Jacobs $1 Conrad Backer $25. Total receipts $27.75 And on hand March 14, 1869 $151.99 Total $2103.24 Total disbursements $100.78 Now on hand March 11, 1870 $102.96 On motion it was resolved that SL Johnson and GL JUdd be directed to take such legal actions as may be necessary to compel persons occupying lots which are unpaid for either to pay for the same or remove the remains of the dead contained within. The time having arrived for the election of two trustees in place of BL Felton and John Simson the election was proceeded with and J Freeman Vincent and Dr Conrad Backer were duly elected as trustees for the term of three years from Feb 1st 1870. The board then proceeded to organize their respected officers for the ensuing years which resulted in the electing: Sheldon Johnson President Garwood Judd Vice “ Hon Hiram Newell Treasurer J Freeman Vincent Secretary James Craney Superintendent On motion it was resolved that a vote of thanks was tendered to BF Felton for his services as secretary of the board since it’s organization and also for the contribution of the necessary books for the use of this association. On motion the board was then appointed. BF Felton Tonawanda October 27, 1870 Meeting of the Trustees of Col. John Sweeney Rural cemetery at the office of president S Johnson. Present S Johnson President J. Vincent Secty Hiram Newell Treasurer James Craney Superintendant Dr Leonard Backer Minutes from the last meeting were read and approved. The treasurer made the following report which was accepted. Deed from Marshall Fales $40 Daniel Robinson $25 Mrs Frank Chasselette $15 J Burns $40 George Cummings $25 $143 The super Mr Carney rendered the following bill paid for labor $7 grass seed holder $11.38. $18.38 Which was accepted and on motion an order was drawn on the treasurer in the amount. Mr S Johnson asked permission to change his lot for one in section B to be hereafter selected by a motion made and carried the president + sect. Were authorized to take ref? the old deed of the lot now held by Mr Johnson and give him the lot he may select he paying the difference if any. On motion Mess. Vincent and Backer were appointed a committee to confer with + settle the ? with James Sweeney. A motion was made and carried that the superintendent be notified not to allow anyone to bury their dead upon any of the lots unless such lots be paid for and that the secretary furnish the super with a copy of the resolution. On motion the board adjourned until two weeks from tonight J F Vincent Secry Tonawanda Feb 7 1871 — Regular meeting of the Col. John Sweeney cemetery association held at the office of SG Johnson Present: S Johnson President GL Judd Vice “ H Newell Treasurer JF Vincent Secty H Backer F Warren Meeting called to order, minutes of last meeting were read and approved. Committee on settlement with James Sweeney + report progress. On motion we proceed to ballot for trustees in place of Mess Johnson + Warren. The following officers were elected for the coming year: Dr Backer President GL Judd Vice “ H Newell Treasurer J Vincent Secty The treasurer made his report which was accepted the details of which can be found upon his books The following bills were presented and upon motion ordered to be drawn on treasurer for amt. James Craney bill labor $27.80 BF Felton bill Family deeds for $16.40 and 27.80 Meeting was adjourned ? Tonawanda July 25, 1871 — At a meeting of the board of Col John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association the following gentlemen are present: Dr Backer President N Newell Treasurer Mr S Johnson + GL Judd Minutes of the last meeting read and approved. The following bills were submitted for labor done on the cemetery grounds + on motion orders were drawn on treasurer for amnts: EP Brown $3.00 James Carney $5.25 $8.25 On motion the secretary was directed to notice all persons that have their deeds on lots unpurchased to remove the same between the date and the first day of November next or the same be removed by the board. On motion Dr C Backer was allowed to exchange lot 14 by giving difference in price of the lots. Board Adjourned. GL Judd Sectry Tonawanda October 9th, 1871 — At a meeting for the board of Col John Sweeney Rural cemetery association. Held at the office of S Johnson the following gentlemen were present: Dr C Backer President N Newell Treasurer JF Vincent Secretary And Mr Johnson + Judd Trustees The minutes of the last meeting not being on hand on motion the reading was dispensed with. Mr James Carney presented his resignation which on motion was accepted and Mr Simon Bellinger was appointed in his place. Motion made and carried that GL Judd be allowed to exchange his deed for lot 1 and have his deeds in Lots 1 and 2 of Section “J” by paying difference in price. On motion the Supt. was authorized to use lots _____ in section F (NE corner of the cemetery) To bury the bodies in that are now in the streets + on lots unpaid for. And the treasurer was also authorized to pay bills for for removing such bodies as soon as such bills be presented and audit said bills at the next meeting for the board. Meeting adjourned Live Die JF Vincent secretary Tonawanda Nov 20 1871 Special meeting of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association. Present Backer Judd Newell Vincent Johnson Mr Newell treasurer brought in ills for removing bodies of $93.16 which was authorized to be paid at the meeting. Mr, Newell resigned and Mr S Johnson elected his stead balance of money in the treasury of $370.48. On motion the supt was authorized to notify Mr SS McMerrick + Mr ? Hawley to remove their dead or secure deeds from the association. The supt was also authorized to grub out oak trees at as little expense as possible JF Vincent Sectry At the annual meeting of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery Association Present: are Dr Backer presiding, SG Jhnson + GL Judd trustees. The treasurer report was read and accepted. The amount received from former treasurer Mr Hiram Newell was the sum of $307.88 and was received since he came into the office (SG Johnson) $142.25 in all $514.13 and paid out $5 for straps? Leaving in his hands $509.13. It was moved and carried that Lerenzo? Ponney? Have a deed of his lost for the money he has paid to George Wing as per ? of James Sweeney. It was moved that the treasurer report be received as read. On motion the association proceeded to ballot for trustee in place of GL Judd was declared duly elected as trustee in place of SL ? and Simon Bellinger was declared duly elected in place of Hiram Newell. On motion this meeting does now adjourned. Sine and Bie (Live and Die?) February 1872 — At a meeting of the board of trustees of the Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery held at the office of SG Johnson president trustees: Backer, SG Johnson, GL Judd, , F Warren, and Simon Bellinger. It was moved that Dr Backer be our president for the ensuing year. F Warren, vice president. SG Johnson Treasurer, and GL Judd Secretary. It was moved and carried that SG Johnson receive $50 each deed drawn up by ? his entering his bill. He presented his bill for drawing said deeds which was accepted at $30. On motion a bill of GL Judd for ? deeds be allowed at $13.75 and on motion a bill alm of George M Warren of $1. For ? deeds was allowed on motion. The do now adjourn on the call of the president GL Judd 1873 — Col. John Sweeney Rural Cemetery association Feb 5th, 1873 At an annual meeting of the stock holders of the office of secretary on the 5th day of February 1873. Gentlemen present: C Backer, Vincent, Simon Bellinger, GL Judd, + SG Johnson trustees. Minutes of the last meeting read and approved. SG Johnson read his report Which read from the treasurers book and found in his hands $740.98. On motion the board do now proceed to ballot for trustee in place os Secretary Backer and F Vincent which was duly done by ballot and both Backer and F Vincent were duly elected. SG Johnson tendered his resignation as trustee which was duly accepted. Simon Bellinger of ____ $14.25 only presented and allowed and bill ? on bill. BH Neff was duly elected trustee in place of SG Johnson resignation. Now board Adjourns 1873 Present Mr’s Bellinger, Vincent, Backer, + Judd. On motion of GL Judd named C Backer were duly elected president for the ensuing year. F Vincent elected vice president for and BH Neff was duly elected treasurer, and GL Judd was duly elected Secretary for the ensuing year. It was moved and carried that the treasurer BH Neff give the reposite Bail for the safety of the money of the cooperation. S Haymond presented bill for printing of $3.00 which was allowed + bill placed on file. On motion Simon Bellinger was duly elected superintendent of the cemetery for the ensuing year. Simon Bellinger presented bill for services on superintendent of $25. Which was accepted and bill placed on file. On motion the board do now adjourn by the call of the president GL Judd Secretary Janurary 7, 1873 Cemetery board meet at the store of BH Neff Present: Backer Warren Simson Bellinger BH Neff GL Judd Minutes of the last meeting read and approved. It was moved that F Warren + Backer be appointed a committee to see James Sweeney and the Vandervoort estate in relation to the purchase of land for additional cemetery grounds. Supt Bellinger presented a bill for cutting down cemetery fence of $30.00 which was duly allowed + check drawn + bill on bill. On motion the board do now adjourn by call of the president. GL Judd Secretary Sept 5 1873 Board meet presidents store, present: President Backer JL Vincent BH Neff S Bellinger GL JUdd trustee Minutes of the last meeting read and approved. The following bills were presented for payment and allowed: AG Carey Rings + Staples $4.50 SP Hastings 2 Urns $4.50 OH Gorton Hardware paint $98.57 Wm (Nellis?) Hellis labor on fence $6.25 Walrath + Boroner? For lumber $29.46 G W Sterns plaining lumber $20.74 S Bellinger Supt. $102.50 On the above bills on file. It is now moved + Carried that the treasurer copy from the old map onto the new one the names of the lot owners. It was moved and ? that the supt reset all of the stakes in the cemetery + new ones if necessary. On motion the board is now adjourned. Annual meeting Feb 3rd, 1874 — Present: Conrad Backer prescient BH Neff Treasurer Simson Bellinger trustees GL Judd Secretary. The minutes of the last meeting were read an approved The treasurer BF Neff presented his report. Which shows he had received from SG Johnson former treasurer $191.50 making the total amount of $932,48 and paid out since last report $353.52 leaving in the treasurer's hand $578.96. Report accepted and recorded on file. The following bills were presented + duly accepted Henry Backer copying records $25.00 BF Felton for record book $15.00 GL Judd drawing deed $7.50 S. Bellinger Supt. $25.00 _______ $72.50 The following named persons were balloted and elected as trustees in favor of making Franklin Warren and Benj H Neff whose terms as trustees expired abd BH Neff and Benj Felton duly elected. The board then adjourned Sine a die. And the new board on the same day convened. Present: C. Backer S Bellinger BH Neff GL Judd On motion C Backer was duly elected President for the ensuing year. BH Neff Treasurer and GL Judd Secretary and Simon Bellinger superintendent. On motion the board do now adjourn by the call of the president. February 18, 1875 — Pursuant to the call for the annual meeting of the Col. John Sweeney Cemetery Association lot owners for the purpose of electing the trustees in place of GL Judd and S Bellinger whose term of office expires. The meeting was called to order and Conrad Backer was made chairman and Robert Harrington Secretary. Present: C Backer BH Neff S Bellinger R Harrington SA Van Brocklin On motion the meeting was adjourned until Feb 25th, 1875 at 2 O'clock PM at the office of S Bellinger in Tonawanda. Feb. 25th, 1875 3 O’clock Pm — Meeting called to order by Secretary BF Felton Chairman, S Bellinger secretary. Treasurer made his report which was accepted and placed on file. A motion was made that was now proceeded for new trustees. A ballot was had for trustees S Bellinger was duly ha for trustee and W Jacobs was duly elected as trustee to serve for 3 years from this meeting. BF Felton Chairman S Bellinger Secretary Feb 25th, 1875 — Board of trustee meeting convenes. Trustees present: BF Felton, F Vincent, BH Neff, Whit Jacobs, and S Bellinger on motion BF Felton was elected president for the present year and S Bellinger was elected Secretary. On motion BH Neff was elected treasurer and S Bellinger as superintendent. On motion and order was drawn on the treasurer in favor of SP Howard for printing notice of $1.50 and on motion and order be drawn on the treasurer in favor of S Bellinger for $25. For services as superintendent for the last year carried. The above orders were drawn as above the report from the treasurer for the last year were received and placed on file. Which account of the treasurer is as follows: Feb Cash on hand $578.96 Amounts received in 1874 $120.00 Total amounts $698.96 Amounts paid out $118.94 Total amount on hand $580.02 On motion the board adjourned until the next call of the president. S Bellinger Secretary Feb 1st 1876 At the regular annual meeting of the cemetery association pursuant to the notice published in the Lu? ? ? met at the office of S Bellinger for the purpose of electing new trustees in place of Dr Backer and Freeman Vincent whose term of office expires on the first day of Feb 1876. Present: BF Felton President S Bellinger Secretary Dr Backer Vincent trustees On motion Freeman Vincent be balloted for trustees Vincent was duly declared unanimously elected trustee and on motion of Backer George H Smith be elected trustee. George H Smith was duly declared elected trustee for three years in place of Br Backer whose term of office was expired accordingly Freeman Vincent and George H Smith are elected trustees for three years . On motion the meeting adjourned until Feb 8th, 1876 at 7 O’clock PM S Bellinger Secretary Tonawanda Feb 8, 1876 A annual meeting of the trustees of Col. John Sweeney Cemetery association the meeting was called to order, George Smith called to the ? ? ? the trustee made his report and then on motion the treasurer report was recorded and placed on file. On motion the treasurer be allowed to delegate all deeds to the persons purchased on their paying the amount called for in the deed. On motion BF felton was elected president and S Bellinger Secretary and BH Neff as treasurer. And S Bellinger superintendent of the cemetery. On motion made in favor of CH Hayward for $1.50 for publishing notice of annual meeting, Carried on motion on the fee of $25 in favor of S Bellinger for services as superintendent of the cemetery. On motion of F Vincent that the treasurer pay .75 cents to the set fee for every deed that has not been paid up by the purchase of the lot and purchase of lots that be required to pay more than the price of the deed call for carry S Bellinger Secretary A special meeting called by the president Nov 14th, 1876 Present: Geo Smith W Jacobs BH Neff S Bellinger On motion Geo Smith BH Neff was appointed. President Mr Geo Smith presented old notes, papers and money accounts with James Sweeney to have them examined and after looking them over the papers the present member could not do any thing about the matter. On motion BH Neff and S Bellinger be a committee to see SG Johnson + Others to find out what agreement had been made with the Sweneys in agreement of him giving the deed to the cemetery. Adjourned until Thursday evening Nev. 16th at 7 O’clock S Bellinger Secretery At an adjourned meeting of the trustees of Col. John Sweeney Cemetery Nov 16, 1876 Present: BF Felton president F Vincent Geo Smith Whit Jacobs BH Neff S Bellinger. The meeting was called to order by the president BH Neff made a motion that James Sweeney Claim be allowed amount $55.46. Motion was lost. Motion made of Geo Smith that McMerrick be notified to pay for his lot or vacate his lot immediately carried. Motion made that treasurer notify all persons that have deeds to pay up. S Bellinger Secretary At the annual meeting of the lot owners of Col John Sweeney Cemetery Association held at the office of S Bellinger Feb 6th, 1877 for the purpose of electing two trustees in place of BH Neff and BF Felton whose term expires. On motion of BH Neff SG Johnson was chose chairman secretary S Bellinger
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Hum of city streets, article (The Philadelphia Times, 1902-01-09).pdf
Holyland goes down the canal, article (Tonawanda News, 1921-08-25).jpg
Holy Land Entertainment, ad (Tonawanda News, 1921-08-13).jpg
Holy Land Entertainment, ad (Tonawanda News, 1920-07-30).jpg
Gigantic, but lifelike, article (Hampshire Telegraph and Naval Chronicle, 1900-11-17).jpg
Giant automaton, illustration, article (The Post Intelligencer, 1900-10-21).jpg
Electric men, article (The Solomon Sentinel, 1895-08-21).jpg
A wooden man who walks, article (Los Angeles Evening Express, 1896-07-18).jpg
An Iron Man Wonder, article (Birmingham Daily Post, 1900-09-04).jpg
A new monster, article (Daily Examiner, 1900-12-04).jpg
Solomon G. Haven to Thomas Bolton, deed (1840-09-14).jpg
Haven sells his other half of Lot 10 5 years after selling the first. The consideration was $1,000, which is much higher than the earlier Roop half-interest price of $312.75 and higher than the 1836 Willink-to-Haven whole-lot consideration/mortgage figure. That may reflect improvements, speculation, changed valuation, or some larger financial context not visible in this deed. AI Transcription: Solomon G. Haven To Thomas Bolton This Indenture made the twelfth day of September in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred & forty Between Solomon G Haven & Hannah N Haven his wife of the City of Buffalo County of Erie & State of New York of the first part and Thomas Bolton of the City of Cleveland in the County of Cuyahoga in the State of Ohio of the second part Witnesseth that the said party of the first part for & in consideration of the sum of one Thousand dollars lawful money of the United States of America to them in hand paid by the said party of the second part the receipt whereof is hereby confessed & acknowledged have granted bargained sold remised released aliened & confirmed and by these presents do grant bargain sell remise release alien and confirm unto the said party of the second part and to his heirs and assigns forever the equal undivided one half of all that certain tract or parcel of land situate lying and being in the county of Niagara and State of New York being part or parcel of a certain Township which on a map or survey of divers tracts or townships of Land made for the Holland Land Company by Joseph Ellicott Surveyor is distinguished by Township number Twelve in the Eighth Range of Townships & which said tract of Land on a certain other map or survey of said Township into lots made for the said Holland Land Company by said Joseph Ellicott is distinguished by Lot number Ten Bounded West by lot number Twelve sixty chains North by lot number Twenty one twenty chains East by Lot number Eight sixty three chains ninety three links and South by the Tonawanda Creek containing one hundred twenty four acres be the same more or less Together with all and singular the hereditaments & appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining and the reversion and reversions remainder and remainders rents issues & profits thereof & all the estate right title interest claim and demand of the said party of the first part either in law or equity possession revision or remainder of in and to the above bargained premises and every part and parcel thereof with the said hereditaments and appurtenances To Have And To Hold the said premises as above described with the appurtenances unto the party of the second part & to his heirs & assigns forever. And the said Solomon G Haven his executors & administrators does covenant grant bargain & agree to and with the said party of the second part his heirs & assigns that at the time of the ensealing & delivery of these presents was well seized of the premises above conveyed as of a good sure perfect absolute and indefeasible estate of inheritance in the law in fee simple without any manner of condition to alter change determine or defeat the same and that the above bargained premises in the quiet & peaceable possession of the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns against all and every person or persons lawfully claiming or to claim the whole or any part thereof he will forever Warrant & Defend In Witness Whereof the party of the first part have hereunto set our hands and seals the day and year first above written the words “all that certain piece or parcel of land” & “Erie” erased before execution. S. G. Haven [L.S.] Hannah N Haven [L.S.] State of New York Erie County ss. On this twelfth day of September 1840 before me came Solomon G Haven & Hannah N. his wife to me severally known to be the persons described in & who have executed the within Indenture & severally acknowledged the executing of the same for the uses & purposes therein expressed and the said Hannah N upon a private examination by me separate and apart from her said husband acknowledged that she had executed the same freely and without any fear or compulsion of her said husband. Geo R Babcock Sup Court Comr. Recorded September 14, 1840 at 9 Oclock A.M. H. A Clark Clerk
Solomon G. Haven to Henry Roop, deed (Book19 p503 1 of 2, 1835-11-19).jpg
By late 1835, Solomon G. Haven was already treating Lot 10 as property in which he held a transferable interest, and he conveyed an undivided half-interest to Henry Roop. This makes Haven, not Locke, the key paper-title figure for the Johnsons’ likely arrival period. The Holland Land Co. reps could also have been involved with any arrangement. Haven conveyed an “equal undivided one half” of Lot 10 to Henry Roop on November 19, 1835, for $312.75. The deed does not give Roop a physically surveyed half of the land. It gives him a one-half ownership interest in the whole 124-acre Lot 10. AI Transcription: Solomon G. Haven to Henry Roop, Nov. 19, 1835 This Indenture Made the Nineteenth day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty five Between Solomon G. Haven of the City of Buffalo in the County of Erie and State of New York of the first part and Henry Roop of the same City County and State of the Second part Witnesseth that the said party of the first part for and in consideration of the sum of three hundred and twelve Dollars and seventy five cents to him in hand paid by the said party of the Second part, the receipt whereof is hereby confessed and acknowledged hath released remised and Quit Claimed and by these presents does release remise and Quit Claim unto the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns forever the equal undivided one half of all that certain piece or parcel of Land situate lying and being in the Township Number Twelve in the Eighth Range of Townships being in Niagara County and which said piece of Land on a Map or survey of said Township into Lots made for the proprietors of said Township by Joseph Ellicott Surveyor is distinguished by Lot Number Ten in said Township. Bounded West by Lot Number Twelve Sixty chains North by Lot Number Twenty one twenty chains East by Lot Number Eight Sixty three chains ninety links and South by the Tonawanda Creek containing one hundred twenty four acres be the same more or less. Together with all and singular the hereditaments and appurtenances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining and the reversion and reversions remainder and remainders rents issues and profits thereof and also all the estate right title interest claim and demand of the said party of the first part either in law or equity possession revision or remainder of in and to the above released premises and every part and parcel thereof with the said hereditaments and appurtenances To Have and to Hold the above released premises and every part and parcel thereof to the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns to the sole and only proper use benefit and behoof of the said party of the second part his heirs and assigns forever. Heirs & part of nineteen written on erasure before signing. In Witness Whereof the said party of the first part has hereunto set his hand and seal the day and year first above written. Signed Sealed and Delivered In presence of A. C. Tuttle S. G. Haven [seal] State of New York Erie County ss. On this Second day of January AD 1836 Solomon G. Haven the within described grantor to me well known came personally before me and acknowledged that he executed the within Deed Let it be recorded Daniel Sherwood Supreme Court Comr. Recorded October 24th 1837 at 6 Oclock P.M. Examined J. H. Roby Clerk
William Willink et al to Solomon G. Haven, mortgage for Great Lot 10 (1836-10-27).jpg
Mortgage; Liber 18 of Mortgages, page 365 — the 1843 discharge. Deed: Book 22 p 186 AI Transcription: This Indenture, Made this twenty seventh day of October in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty-six between William Willink, Wilhem Willink, Warnaer Van Heukelom, Jan Teyman Cuming, Isaac Ten Cate, William Willink the younger and Peter Van Eeghen all of the City of Amsterdam in the Kingdom of the Netherlands by David E. Evans their Attorney in fact in the County of Niagara and State of New York, of the first part, and Solomon G. Haven of the County of Erie, State of New York, of the second part, WITNESSETH, that the said party of the first part, for and in consideration of the sum of Eight hundred twenty five 82/100 dollars to them in hand paid, by the said party hereto of the second part, the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, and themselves to be therewith fully satisfied, contented, and paid, have granted, bargained, sold, aliened, released, enfeoffed, conveyed, confirmed, and assured, and by these presents do grant, bargain, sell, alien, release, enfeoff, convey, confirm, and assure unto the said party of the second part, and to his heirs, and assigns forever, ALL that certain tract of LAND, situate, lying, and being in the County of Niagara in the State of New-York, being part or parcel of a certain Township which on a Map or survey of divers Tracts or Townships of Land, made for the said parties of the first part by Joseph Ellicott, Surveyor, is distinguished by Township Number Twelve in the Eighth Range of said Townships, and which said tract of land, on a certain other Map or survey of said Township into lots made for the said parties of the first part by the said Joseph Ellicott, is distinguished by Lot number Ten in said Township. Bounded West by Lot number Twelve sixty chains North by Lot number Twenty one twenty chains East by Lot number Eight sixty three chains ninety three links and South by the Tonawanda Creek containing one hundred and twenty four acres be the same more or less according to the plan or survey thereof in the margin hereof. Together with all and singular the appurtenances, privileges, advantages, and hereditaments whatsoever, unto the above mentioned and described premises, in any wise appertaining or belonging, and the reversion and reversions, remainder and remainders, rents, issues and profits thereof, and also all the estate, right, title, interest, property, claim and demand whatsoever, as well in law as in equity, of the said party of the first part, of, in, or to the same, and every part or parcel thereof, with the appurtenances.—To have and to hold, the above granted, bargained, and described premises, with the appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, to his and their only proper use, benefit and behoof forever. AND the said party of the first part, for themselves and each of the surviving party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, do hereby covenant, promise and agree, to and with the said party of the first part, his heirs, and assigns, that they, the said party of the first part, the above described, and hereby granted and bargained premises, and every part thereof, with the appurtenances, unto the said party of the second part, his heirs, and assigns, against the said party of the first part, and their heirs, and against all other persons whatsoever, lawfully claiming or to claim the same, or any part thereof, shall and will WARRANT, and by these presents forever DEFEND. In witness whereof, The said party of the first part have hereunto set their hands and seals the day and year first above written. Sealed and delivered in presence of William Willink Wilhem Van Heukelom Isaac Ten Eyck Cornelis Isaac Van Eeghen Wilhem Willink the Younger Peter Van Eeghen By their Attorney David E. Evans Genesee County ss. On this 1st day of November in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and thirty six, personally appeared before me the subscriber a Supreme Court Commissioner for the County aforesaid, and to me known David E Evans to me personally known to be the same person described in and who executed the above instrument of writing who acknowledged that he executed the same as the act and deed of the above mentioned party of the first part for the uses & purposes therein mentioned. I finding therein no material interlineations or erasures do allow the same to be recorded. Daniel H. Chandler Recorded April 1st 1837 at 8 Oclock A.M. H A Clark Clerk
Memorial Pool, posing on the plat, photo (Jim Mis c1977).jpg
Ancestry Link 1810-07-21 in Hollis Center, Maine. 1830 Limerick School in Biddeford Me 1833 Main Temperance Society 1834 College in Maine 1834 Johnsons arrive according to Hannah obit 1837-11-15 Marries Mehitable Hill in Lyman, Maine (Ancestry.com) 1837-12-04 Marries Mehitable Green Hill in Tonawanda (Locke genealogy book on Ancestry.con) 1838 First “resident physician of Tonawanda...Dr. Locke came about (History of City of Buffalo and Erie County p. 419). 1840 Birth of daughter Marian in NY NY? (Ancestry) 1843-02 A J. F. Locke is listed in the Emancipator and Free American treasurer’s report, published March 9, 1843, as collecting subscriptions at Charlestown, Massachusetts; if this is the same Jesse F. Locke later associated with Wheatfield, it would place him in direct financial support of an abolitionist newspaper. (Vol 7 Issue 46) 1843-03-04 Whips a man in tavern for playing possum 1844 First appearance in land records: Jesse F. Locke and Jacob Hug, from Thomas Bolton “of Cleveland” & Wife, Lot 10 124 acres - for $700. “The equal undivided one half…of Lot 10.” So they are partners. 1844 Helps get local Presbyterian worship off the ground with Payne 1847-11-23 Buys Lot 10 from Ephraim Rolles 1848 Birth of daughter Pamelia in NT 1850-09ish Birth of Son Jesse F. Locke Jr. (drowns) 1852-09-18 Wife Mehitable Green Hill dies 1853-11-02 Sells some land to John Chadwick (Chadwick pays $500 for a 31-acre strip in center of Lot 10 from its north boundary to Tonawanda Creek (not Johnsons' land) 1859 Marries Welsh-born Mary Gwynne, later Rowland 1861-03-12 Death 1861-1865 Surrugate court docs
Memorial Pool demolition preparation, photos (Dennis Reed Jr., 2026-05-17).gal
Hannah's Woods, photos (Dennis Reed Jr., 2026-05-17).gal
John Johnson household (U.S. Census, 1840).jpg
AI Summary: In the 1840 census for Wheatfield, John Johnson appears as the head of a small free Black household of three. The visible age columns identify one free colored man aged 24 to 35, one free colored woman aged 24 to 35, and one free colored male aged 55-100. All three householders are described as "employed in agriculture." Neighbors as they appear in the text: Martin Bush Daniel Treichler Martin Dewey Alonzo Chasbrough William Simmons Hugh Kelly Adlai Clark Whitman Nash Horace Nash Adam Castleman Treeman Smith Malichi P. Rewey Oliver Lovell John O Tool Eggbert Mansfield Nars Sawyer George Van Slyke Michael Henesa Alexander Chapelet Jacob Hook David Shooman Christopher Van Slyke John Johnson Robert Mathers Sanya Grapan James Summers Thomas King Barney Capaday William Reed Philo Kingsley
American District Steam Company, photos (c.1950).jpg
Gratwick area, W. Stenzel, B.F. Felton, map detail (1875).jpg
Veteran Keke shows the kids how it's done, transcribed article (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-22).jpg
Monday, March 22, 1976 Veteran Keke Shows the Kids How By PETER DRUMSTA Even under the pressure of playoffs, Keke Mortson was clearly enjoying himself. Because, after a hockey career spanning three decades, the colorful Mortson — who will turn 42 years old a week from today — is finishing it up with a flourish as a Buffalo Norseman. It was his guile that sparked the Norsemen to a 5-1 victory over the defending Lockhart Cup champion Johnstown Jets Sunday afternoon before 4041 in Memorial Auditorium, giving Buffalo a 1-0 lead in their North American Hockey League quarter-final playoff series. The series continues with games tonight and Wednesday at Johnstown. The fourth game is set for Thursday in the Tonawanda Sports Center, with a fifth game, if necessary, in Johnstown. The Jets, who finished 36 points ahead of the Norsemen in the NAHL West, didn’t look the part Sunday. --- MORTSON AND his young mates quickly took advantage. He popped in a short shot at the 6-minute, 40-second mark of the first period, with assists from defenseman Wayne Morin and Larry Gould. Gould scored later in the period with a crisp pass from Reggie Lahey for a 2-0 lead. In the second, Lahey and Gould assisted on another close-in drive by Mortson for his second goal midway through the period. The goal that flattened the Jets came less than a minute later, when Jim Stanfield scooped up a pass from Dave Given, deked his way in on goalie Ron Docken, and popped the puck past him for a 4-0 lead. Billy Steele added a short-handed goal in the third period for Buffalo. Johnstown’s Jean Tetreault spoiled what would have been Buffalo’s first shutout of the season, scoring with less than 4 minutes left. --- MORTSON, who joined the team after receiving a call from Norseman General Manager Willie Marshall, vows a permanent retirement after this season with a vehement “you better believe it.” “My wife is after me to quit,” said the smiling Mortson after his smooth-skating performance. “Last time I went home I had six stitches in me. That was the only way she knew I was playing hockey — I don’t fight in bars.” He rates his current occupation far ahead of his other job, with the North Bay, Ont. sewage department. But he hasn’t looked near retirement with the Norsemen. In his 13 games he’s scored 10 goals with nine assists. Lahey, who has improved throughout the season, appreciates the experience Mortson adds to the club, comprised mainly of players half Keke’s age. “He’s amazing,” said Lahey. “He says, ‘You put it there and I’ll BE there.’” --- JIM MAKEY was sharp in the Buffalo nets as the Norsemen outshot the Jets, 41-33. It was the first time in 3 months that Buffalo held the opposition to one goal. --- PLAYER-COACH Guy Trottier of the Norsemen did not play due to a back injury. His status is uncertain for the upcoming games in Johnstown.
Trottier back on ice for Norsemen tonight, transcribed article (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-24).pdf
Trottier Back on Ice For Norsemen Tonight Special to Buffalo Evening News JOHNSTOWN, Pa., March 24 — Player-coach Guy Trottier, who scored seven game-winning goals for the Buffalo Norsemen this season, will be back on the ice this evening after a four-game absence. And the team needs him. The Norsemen clash with the Johnstown Jets here in the third game of their best-of-five Lockhart Cup quarter-final playoff series. Each has one victory. The series shifts to the Tonawanda Sports Center tomorrow evening at 7:45, with a fifth game in Jamestown Saturday if necessary. Trottier, who missed the last two games of the North American Hockey League regular season and the first two playoff games with a back injury, takes the place of defenseman Greg Neeld. Neeld drew a game misconduct Monday for hurling his stick into the stands after the game. Trottier scored 58 points in 57 games for Buffalo this season, including 15 power-play goals. Buffalo has been unable to capitalize during power-plays against the rough, penalty-prone Jets.
Strong minor leagues, NAHL recap, article (The Standard, 1976-04-15).pdf
Paul Newman assists Norsemen?, article (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-20).pdf
Attack was deliberate, says Neeld, article (The Province, 1976-04-01).pdf
Norsemen vs. Jets Game 4, ad (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-23).pdf
Norsemen storybook tells an exciting tale, article (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-26).pdf
Norsemen are down to their last chance, transcribed article (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-25).pdf
Norsemen Are Down To Their Last Chance Special to Buffalo Evening News JOHNSTOWN, Pa., March 25 — The home ice advantage and improved goaltending gave the Johnstown Jets a one-game advantage in their playoff series with the Buffalo Norsemen Wednesday evening. Backed by the goaltending of Louie Levasseur, the Jets won their second straight game in the Cambria County War Memorial here, beating Buffalo, 6-2 before 3118 fans in their best-of-three Lockhart Cup quarter-final series. The pressure will be on the Norsemen this evening in the fourth game of the series, with the Jets holding a 2-1 edge. Game time is 7:45 PM in the Tonawanda Sports Center. --- IF THE Norsemen win, the two teams will play fifth and deciding game Saturday in Johnstown. If they lose, their first North American Hockey League season will be over. Levasseur, who led the Jets to the Lockhart Cup title last year, was not with the Jets in their opening-game loss to Buffalo. But he returned to win their last two games and will probably start again this evening. He made 33 saves, and the Jets outshot Buffalo, 43-35. Meanwhile, both Jim Makey and Mario Vien played in goal for Buffalo, neither with much success. The first period ended in a 1-1 tie on goals by the Jets’ Jean Tetreault and Dave Peace. Then Johnstown swamped the Norsemen with three unanswered second-period goals by Henry Taylor, Steve Carlson and Player-coach Jim Cardiff. --- BILLY STEELE interrupted the Jets, scoring for Buffalo early in the third. But Carlson scored again and Vern Cempigotto, Reg Bechtold and Bruce Boudreau all added singles for emphasis. Defenseman Greg Neeld will be back for Buffalo this evening after a one-game suspension, but Player-coach Guy Trottier will not be able to play after receiving a game misconduct. Protesting a call to Referee Steve Dowling, Trottier was called for the penalty after the first period Wednesday. It carries an automatic one-game suspension.
Newman at Johnstown, article (The Evening Standard, 1976-03-24.jpg
Neeld had made "objectionable comments", article (Philadelphia Daily News, 1976-03-29).pdf
Neeld charges intimidation, article (The Montreal Star, 1976-03-31).pdf
NAHL mess - Out of sight, out of mind, article (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-30).pdf
Marshall says NAHL ignoring pre-game fight, article (The Globe and Mail, 1976-03-30).pdf
Marshall eyes future of Norsemen, article (The Evening News, 1976-03-30).pdf
Johnstown tops Buffalo, transcribed article (The Harrisburg PA Evening News, 1976-03-23).pdf
Johnstown tops Buffalo JOHNSTOWN (AP) — Rookie center Bruce Boudreau and veteran left wing John Gofton each scored two goals yesterday as the Johnstown Jets defeated the Buffalo Norsemen 6-4 in a North American Hockey League playoff game. The victory evened the best-of-five, Western Division semifinal series at one game apiece. Johnstown, the defending Lockhart Cup Champions, finished atop the division in the regular season while Buffalo finished fourth, 36 points back. The Jets outshot the Norsemen 46-30 with Dave Birch and Hank Taylor contributing single goals. Buffalo’s scores came from Dave Given, Charlie LaBelle, Larry Gould and Greg Neeld.
Johnstown floods Buffalo net, transcribed article (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-23).pdf
Johnstown Floods Buffalo Net Special to Buffalo Evening News JOHNSTOWN, Pa., March 23 — The defending-champion Johnstown Jets re-emerged as the physical team they were throughout the North American Hockey League season and the results were the same. The Jets battered the Buffalo Norsemen, survived numerous shorthanded situations and scored a 6-4 Lockhart Cup quarter-final playoff victory here Monday evening before 2364 in the Cambria County War Memorial. The outcome evens the best-of-five series at one game each. The two teams clash here again tomorrow evening, with a fourth game set for the Tonawanda Sports Center Thursday at 7:45 PM. The Jets, listless in their opening-game loss to Buffalo Sunday, punished the Norsemen and outshot them, 47-30, despite being called for 55 minutes in penalties. The Norsemen were called for only 14 minutes. --- BRUCE BOUDREAU scored the only first-period goal on a breakaway to give Johnstown the lead, but Dave Peace tied the game early in the second on a controversial goal which the Jets claimed was batted in with a high stick. The Jets then ran up four goals in a 10-minute stretch. Boudreau scored his second, Henry Taylor tallied, and both assisted on a goal by Dave Birch. John Gofton netted the first of his two goals for a 5-1 lead. Charlie Labelle and Larry Gould brought the Norsemen within range with single goals, but Gofton’s second score on a power play at the 15:11 mark iced it. --- GREG NEELD scored Buffalo’s final goal while the Jets were two men short. But the young defenseman disqualified himself for tomorrow evening’s game when he threw his stick into the stands in anger at the end of the game. He received a game misconduct from Referee Gene Kusy after the game which carries an automatic one-game suspension. Mario Vien replaced Jim Makey in goal for Buffalo in the midst of the Jets’ four-goal surge. Each gave up three goals, with Vien making 24 saves. Makey 15.
Jets win by default, face Firebirds tonight, article (The Philadelphia Inquirer, 1976-03-28).jpg
High-sticking duel, Dennis Anderson, photo (The Buffalo News, 1976-03-26).pdf
Buffalo contends NAHL dominated by "goon" hockey, article (The Daily Courier, 1976-03-30).pdf
Ironton addition, George P. Smith and August J. Hathaway subdivision, map (1891-04-27).jpg
Owner would raze Plaza Apartments, article (Tonawanda News, 1938-05-24).jpg
Lost - Our only skyscraper, article (Tonawanda News, 1938-08-11).jpg
25-story skyscraper to rise on Plaza Partments site, April Fools story (Tonawanda News, 1938-04-01).jpg
Tonawanda Iron and Steel, photo (1934-08).jpg
Tried to block Ely's road, article (Niagara Falls Gazette, 1895-05-14).jpg
Transcribed by AI: TRIED TO BLOCK ELY’S ROAD. North Tonawanda Firemen Called Out to Prevent Track Laying. An effort was made in North Tonawanda last night to block the Ely trolley line to Buffalo. A gang of George P. Smith’s workmen attempted to lay tracks across Payne avenue at Robinson street, but were prevented by firemen under orders from the street committee. The Smith Company have a franchise on Robinson street and were laying their tracks by virtue of it, although the plain object is to block the Ely line. At 7 o’clock about 20 men were at work on the point named when Trustees Geib and Wilcox of the street committee told J. A. Read to have the men stop work. The reason for ordering the men to stop was that the work should have been done in the day time. The foreman said he had orders from Mr. Smith to quit work and he could not do so. The committee then went to the nearest fire alarm box and called up a fire company. The laborers continued to spike down tracks until a well directed stream of water ended their ardor for work and they stopped. The committee then took the team from the hook and ladder truck and pulled up the rails. At 9 o’clock the Smith workmen abandoned their work. Watchmen were stationed on the scene to prevent further work. It is possible another attempt will be made today. There is much excitement over the action of the committee as well as that of Smith. The fight is supposed to be between the two companies and out of the hands of the village.
1897 Biography: "George P. Smith Smith, George P., one of the most enterprising men of Niagara county, was born in Lockport, June 15, 1842, a son of Hon. Henry P, and Christina (Long) Smith and was educated in Genesee College. ln 1862 he removed to Saginaw Bay, Mich., where he has since been interested in the lumber business; in 1874 he returned to North Tonawanda, which has since been his home, except an additional nine years spent in Saginaw. He has done a great deal for North Tonawanda through his connection with the Tonawanda Lumber & Saw Mill Company, the Tonawanda Standard Light and Power Company, the Standard Gas Company, the Ironton Land Company, the United States Water Company, the Niagara Real Estate and Investment Company, the North Tonawanda Land Company, and the Tonawanda Street Railway Company. In 1884 Mr. Smith married Susan Otterson of Michigan, who was born in Woodstock, Ontario, Can." - From Landmarks of Niagara County, New York, by William Pool, D. Mason & Co., Syracuse, NY, 1897. GenWeb. President of multiple companies. In 1893 sells his Tonawanda home to Martin Reisterer for $18,000 and plans to build a new one in Ironton. [Ends up on Christiana St. instead]. In 1895 involved in dispute with city and Ely tracks. He died on 17 April 1928, in Missoula, Missoula, Montana, United States, at the age of 85 according to FamilySearch.com Ancestry.com
The rise and fall of the Plaza Apartments, transcribed article (Tonawanda News, 1938-07-02).jpg
Transcribed by AI There's an old saying that everything that goes up must come down, and the truth of this statement is being borne out in the Tonawandas these days with the razing of the Plaza apartments on the corner of Tremont and Main streets. The work being done on the condemned building is causing a mild bit of attention, as each day sees it approaching the level of the ground that has supported it for 42 years. Its erection and final completion in 1896 caused appropriate notice. A newspaper of that period reported: "On the corner of Webster and Tremont streets, Mr. George P. Smith, one of the leading developers of North Tonawanda, has this year erected a towering six-story business block. From the top of the elevator tower the historian recently spent a half hour taking a birds-eye view of this city and its surroundings.” Mr. Smith was indeed one of the leading citizens of old North Tonawanda. He was the son of the Hon. H. R. Smith and Christiana Long Smith, for whom Christiana street is named. The younger Smith was raised entirely in North Tonawanda and became engaged in the lumber business. His great executive ability finally led him to become, not only the head of that concern, but also president of the Standard Light and Power company, the Standard Gas company of Tonawanda, the Tonawanda Street Railroad company, the Ironton Land company of North Tonawanda, the United States Water Works company, the North Tonawanda Land company, and the Niagara Real Estate and Insurance company.
Razing work is started on Plaza Apartmets, article (Tonawanda News, 1938-06-15).jpg
Plaza Apartments fire origin is undetermined, article (Tonawanda News, 1938-02-19).pdf
Inquiry ordered into taxes of Plaza apartmets, article (Tonawanda News, 1938-05-17).jpg
The Smith Building, former Real Estate Exchange, photo (c.1936).jpg
R. T. Jones Lumber Co., photo (c.1938).jpg
International Paper Co., photo (c.1938).jpg
Bascule bridge opening, Webster Street, photo (c.1938).jpg
Norsemen team photo 2 (c.1976-02-08).jpg
NOT IN OTHER PHOTO 30 - 11 - Gordon Nielson? (C, appears in 2/27 program, 4GP) 9 - Robbie Balyc? (NA, appears in 2/27 program, 19GP). Randy Montgomery? 12/27 10 - 20 - Bob Barnes? (D, appears in 2/27 program, 23 GP); George Kuzmicz? 12/27 NOT IN THIS PHOTO 9 - Bill Steele (in Jets 1/2?) 30 - Jim Makey (he is in 2/27 program w P. Rupp) 10 - Labelle (he is in 2/27) 12 - Dave Given (in Jets 1/2?) 20 - Dennis Anderson (in Jets 1/2?)
South Swing Bridge, pen and ink (2026-02-19).jpg
Pioneer Period of Western New York, book (Chipman P. Turner, 1888).pdf
Pettit's Run and the Easiest Victory of the War of 1812 - Excerpted from Pioneer Period of Western New York, Chipman P. Turner, pp. 35-36 (1888).htm
A slight haze rose from the marshes on the borders of the Niagara River, but not enough to shroud the banks or the road that lay along its shore in obscure darkness. It was the route from the year 1800 for military transfer from Fort Niagara to Black Rock, Buffalo and other western points. The march of regiments, companies and detachments, was a common, hourly expected occurrence, not usually creating surprise or apprehension of peril. The tragedy of Lewiston had been enacted, creating constant fear in the minds of all. Buffalo and Black Rock were threatened points. Volunteer regiments had been drafted from eastern sections to the rescue, timidly approaching the scene of war, to which they were unaccustomed; crackling brush, a rustling leaf, were startling omens, and prudence in advancing was deemed “the better part of valor,” and made the adopted strategy in the instance related. The scene of action, according to the record of the time, may be placed at what is known as “Pettitt’s Run,” taking the name of Joshua Pettitt, locating at its junction with the Niagara river, a short two miles below Tonawanda, as early as 1810. Nearly as early a settler as Pettitt, was George N. Burger, who made a beginning by erecting a log house, which in the exigency of war was appropriated by the government as an arsenal for the depositing of arms and ammunition, guarded by a small number of volunteer citizens. The hour of midnight had but just passed when the vigilant watchman were aroused by the footsteps of marching men, tramp of horses and mud-bound wheels of a wagon train, in slow progress up the river. Whether friend or foe was yet to be determined; moments were not to be wasted or retreat justified, without at least the best defence that could be made. Necessity became “the mother of invention,” and proved to be the available relief. The stream passed through a bed of mud, mixed with melting snow, bridged in rough corduroy, that proved fitting for the success of the exploit they had resolved upon. An old dilapidated, one-horse lumber wagon was employed to represent a cannon, “big gun,” by trundling it over the uneven logs. Burger in the full strength of his voice, giving the command: “Bring up the guns, form in line!” while the wagon was drawn again and again by the squad noiselessly through the mud, and thundering back over the bridge, to create the imaginary array of a host. Soon an order was heard directing a halt of the approaching volunteer militia, that was yet to see battle, if at all, while preparations commenced to meet the sudden surprise. Outlooks detached from both the trembling parties approaching each other in hailing distance and in sight of each other, it was discovered they were the same color of clothes; greeting each other as friends, the Colonel, surprised that “ten should overcome a thousand and one,” while Captain Burger exulted that he and his few comrades had gained the easiest victory of the war of 1812.
Early Ironton School principal Walter Luman Case, bio (c.1890).jpg
Island Street Lumber Co. Mill, 11 Felton Street, photo set (Dennis Reed Jr., 2025).gal
A business of the same name produces this ruler and gives an address of 65 Island Street.
Niagara Musical Instrument Co., mailer (1914-04-27).jpg
Featuring a photo of the so-called "Midget Orchestra"
Incinerator Walck and Zimmerman, photo (Dennis Reed Jr. 2008-01-16).png
Tonawanda Power Co. car and probably High Speed line, photo (Power News c. 1926).jpg
Tonawanda line crew pauses for picture, photo (Power Events, c.1926).jpg
Structure at Robonson Street station, photo (c.1926).jpg
Station invites attention, photo article (Power Events, 1927-08).jpg
Power furnished by chips, article (Power Events, 1927-01).jpg
Old dynamo found in haystack, photo article (Power Events, 1927-05).jpg
Niagara falls Power Co wagon and horse, photo (c.1896).jpg
Sweeney, James Sr. and James Jr., portraits and bio (A History of the City of Buffalo, pp187-188, 1908).htm
Archive.org, transcribed by AI: James Sweeney, Senior, and James Sweeney, Junior.—About the year 1820 three residents of Buffalo—James Sweeney, John Sweeney, and William Vandervoort—came into possession of three farm lots north of Tonawanda creek, comprising in all about five hundred acres, and upon which a part of the city of North Tonawanda now stands. This land had been selling at a very low figure, land that only awaited the development of the Niagara Frontier to become one of the most valuable tracts in this section of the State. George Goundry had a third interest in the property at one time, Mr. Goundry being one of the pioneers of North Tonawanda. In 1824 the owners of this land, which is located north of Tonawanda creek, began to dispose of it piece by piece, to the village corporation and the residents therein. A copy of a deed of land from James Sweeney, John Sweeney, and William Vandervoort to the village of North Tonawanda, dated 1824, is still in possession of James Sweeney, Senior, son of the James Sweeney mentioned above. In a few years the remaining property passed over to the control of the Sweeney family and has remained in their possession since. The sales which have been made from time to time to individuals, and also to the city of North Tonawanda, leave at the present time in the possession of the Sweeney family about one hundred and fifty to two hundred acres, and comprise what is left of the original grant of the three farm lots. At the death of the elder Sweeney, his son, James Sweeney, took over the management of the property, which was becoming more valuable year by year. About ten years ago, he in turn gave over the control of the property to his son, James Sweeney, Junior. The elder Sweeney still lives and is manager of the property, but James Sweeney, Junior, acting as his agent, does the active work in connection therewith. During the latter part of the ten years that James Sweeney, Junior, has been in control, he has paid particular attention to the building up of large factory buildings and industries on the property. During the past five or six years he has closed twenty-three factory deals, the owners of the land erecting the factories on the property and leasing them to the manufacturers on long terms of from ten to twenty-five years. These factories, combined, employ about two thousand people, and the desirability of the property as a site for manufacturing purposes is plainly manifest. It is situated on the thousand ton barge canal and the Niagara River, accessible to connections with every important railroad line in this part of the country. Natural gas and electric power from Niagara Falls add to its desirability. James Sweeney, Junior.—Sometime before the War of 1812, the old family records show that he was one of those who fled up the beach road, when the British and Indians sacked the town in 1814. After peace came and the hardy settlers went back to their former vocations, Mr. Sweeney seems to have been attracted Tonawandards, and he also owned a large amount of land in the south village of Tonawanda, as well as in the north village. He was subsequently actively identified with the early railroad interests in this section of the State, and was one of the stockholders of the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad, which ran between those points as early as 1836 and was later merged with the New York Central, whose Buffalo and Niagara Falls division now runs over the same road. James Sweeney, Senior, one of the preceding James Sweeneys, was born in North Tonawanda in 1831, and received his early education in the Buffalo public schools. Having completed his school education he began to assist his father in the management of his large holdings in the Tonawandas. Ten years ago his advanced age forced him to retire from the active management of the property, but he still maintains an active interest in Buffalo and Niagara Frontier affairs. He is a trustee of the Erie County Savings Bank, a member of the Buffalo Historical Society, the Buffalo Society of Natural Sciences, the Buffalo Club, and several other social and business organizations. He has been identified with the history of old St. Paul’s Church for many years. His father was one of the original members of the church and the son was the holder of one of the original pews. He is at present time one of its vestrymen. James Sweeney, Junior, was born in this city in 1866 and supplemented his early training in the Buffalo public schools with a thorough course of training in Professor Briggs’ Classical School, from which he graduated. After spending a year in Europe Mr. Sweeney returned to this country, and at once took up the active management of the Sweeney property, which he retains up to the time of this writing. He is a member of the Buffalo, Ellicott, Country, Saturn, and Park clubs of this city and of the Frontier Club of North Tonawanda. Other business associations are with the American Savings Bank and the Tonawanda Power Company, he being a trustee of the former and a director of the latter organization. Mr. Sweeney’s office is in the building which was formerly occupied by the first bank established in Tonawanda.
E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Company Niagara Plant historical files.htm
From Hagley Archives: The E.I. du Pont de Nemours Niagara Plant produces a number of specialty chemicals, such as polymer acetates, sodium cyanide, and methyl chloride; the plant was purchased by the DuPont Company in 1930. The Niagara Plant, located in Niagara Falls, New York, can be traced back to two chemical companies founded in the late nineteenth century. The first was the Niagara Electro-Chemical Company, formed in 1896, which manufactured metallic sodium. The second was Roessler & Hasslacher (R&H), which began in 1885 as a precious metals business that later developed into a specialized producer of chlorine products, hydrogen peroxide, other oxides, and metal cyanides. Both companies were very successful and understood the value of combining their companies to form even greater success. They merged in 1925 and operated the Niagara plant until 1930 when DuPont purchased their assets. The purchase ensured DuPont a steady flow of raw materials for manufacturing dyes and tetraethyllead. In addition, the R&H acquisition provided DuPont with access to numerous specialized chemicals such as sodium cyanide used in electroplating, methyl chloride for refrigerants, hydrogen peroxide for oxidizing and bleaching, formaldehyde for plastic and disinfectants, dry-cleaning agents, fumigants, insecticides, and ceramic colors. The plant operated as the R&H Department of DuPont until 1946 when it became known as the Electrochemical Department; in 1971, it was transferred to the Industrial Chemicals Department. The plant marketed the following products: polymer acetates, chlorine products, ammonia, hydrogen peroxide, cyanides, and several other specialty chemicals. The Niagara Plant was included in the DuPont Performance Chemicals spinoff that created the Chemours Company in July 2015.
City of North Tonawanda, map (Niagara County Atlas, 1908).jpg
EL-2 railroad signal, Rose Coal, photo (1930).jpg
Great Sale of Lots in the Ironton District, ad (Polish Everybody’s Daily, 1922-10-17).jpg
Translation from the Polish by AI: Great Sale of Lots in the Ironton District Real Bargains for 10 Days In the Fastest-Growing Neighborhood of Our City Stop paying rent! Own your own home! Don’t pay high streetcar fares! Live close to your workplace Times are improving There is plenty of work — steady employment — higher wages. PRICES: $60 to $600 $5 down payment $5 per month 10% discount for cash. Surveying/preparation $10 extra. Clear title guaranteed. Large selection of lots The safest investment of money Protection in case of unemployment or illness Great value at low cost Last chance to get bargains like these First come, first served.
Ironton-related news from Polish Everybody’s Daily newspaper (1912-1923).jpg
[Translated from a Buffalo Polish newspaper by AI] 1912 A grand jury has indicted the brothers Jan and Stefan Kuczmiński for burglary (theft with breaking and entering). They stole clothing and other goods worth $502.00 from a railroad car in the Ironton district. They left their stolen loot at the saloon of Walenty Yunger on 7th Avenue. The jury also indicted this saloonkeeper for storing and buying stolen items and goods. — The brothers Kuczmiński committed this robbery and theft on the Lehigh Valley railroad a few months ago, but managed to get away. — Meanwhile, what is meant to hang won’t drown. The Buffalo police arrested them for third-degree assault and for beating Stanisław Rosiński of Tonawanda. — For that they were put in jail for 100 days. Now, as a result of the grand jury indictment, Deputy Sheriff John H. Bollier of Tonawanda has received a court warrant, under which he will arrest the brothers and take them to Lockport as soon as they finish serving this one sentence... To be continued. And the longer they sigh there behind those “Swedish curtains” (jail bars), the better it will be for society and for the Polish community of Tonawanda, because they’re bad birds, and everyone will be glad to be rid of them. 1912-04-24 Marya Malik from the Ironton district on 8th Ave. has evidently fallen into religious insanity. — She walked the streets with a prayer book and prayed loudly without stopping. — She had been ill for quite some time. — The police took her into care, and with her husband’s consent she was sent to the state asylum for the insane. 1912-05-03 New policemen. The police force of North Tonawanda has been strengthened by two policemen, so that the police contingent now totals 15 members, together with a chief, a sergeant, and a special detective. It is not a force that one could boast about in terms of numbers, but it consists almost exclusively of intelligent and respectable citizens. The police consider the Ironton district the most dangerous; pr[illegible word] they will have policemen patrol there in pairs. — In several cases, during arrests they had to resort to revolvers, as in the arrest of Basara’s murderers. — One may expect that in the future the people of Tronton will behave more modestly. 1913-01-04 KACZOR STOLE PARAT’S WIFE TONAWANDA HAS ITS OWN LITTLE HOLIDAY SENSATION. Kaczor is accused of stealing not only several dozen dollars but, in addition… Miss Katarzyna Parat. — After the wedding! — Fr. Bubacz bound the pair of lovers with a lifelong marriage bond. Buffalo has its sensations; so does the much smaller Tonawanda—or rather North Tonawanda, since Poles live in Tonawanda in only small numbers. In North Tonawanda, in the Ironton district, there lives a certain Parat family. They are fairly well-off people. They’re doing well. The Parats have a daughter—moreover, very comely, even pretty. Her name is Katarzyna. Katarzyna fell in love, as later turned out, with a bachelor named Franciszek Kaczor. Kaczor, too, was madly in love with the girl—and the romance was ready-made. Bad luck had it that last week, about $150 worth of various items disappeared from the Parats in Ironton, and in addition $37 in cash. And along with all that, gone without a trace (like a stone in water) were the Parats’ daughter, Miss Katarzyna, and also Mr. Franciszek Kaczor. As later turned out, the young lady and the bachelor went to Niagara Falls, where they wanted to Parat from Ironton notified the police; the matter was uncovered, and in Niagara Falls the little pair was arrested—before they got married! So they were brought back home to North Tonawanda, Mr. Kaczor was brought before the court, and people awaited the hearing. But when the hearing was supposed to take place, Miss Katarzyna begged her father and mother, and the young man—who had “stolen” their daughter away and meant to make her happy—was forgiven, with the help of that clever, brave, and no doubt spirited young lady! Somehow the judge dismissed the charge; instead they were led to the church, the groom and the young bride, and Fr. Stanisław Bubacz bound them with a lifelong marital bond. And that Kaczor will be a capable husband, and the Parats’ daughter likewise a capable wife—of that no one doubts. All of North Tonawanda wishes the young couple—who lived through so much fear and suffered a lot as well—the happiest life together and every success. They earned it, one way or another, by loving each other; and the whole world loves people in love! The costs of lawyers and defenders were paid by the Parats, who could afford it. Now everyone is satisfied and happy, because this whole wedding “sensation” has ended—and that’s the main thing! Long live the newlyweds! 1914-06-13 N. TONAWANDA, N.Y. NOTICE TO RESPECTED SUBSCRIBERS. Once again, I ask you to remember that every recipient of “Dziennik dla Wszystkich” should pay for the paper regularly. Otherwise, further delivery of the newspaper will be stopped. At the same time, I ask for prompt payment of overdue subscriptions. Andrzej Niemiec, agent, 11—6th Ave., N. Tonawanda, N.Y. ROBBERY IN BROAD DAYLIGHT. Poles themselves are to blame for these sad conditions. Some robber, not yet tracked down, sneaked into the home of Stanisław Glica at 27—5th Ave. and took jewelry worth $45—namely a watch, rings, and various other items. This is a warning to housewives that they should not leave their homes without any supervision, with the doors left open, as happened in this case. That theft is spreading among us is the fault of the citizens themselves, because they do not try to [...] when the moon is shining, thank God for that; but when it’s cloudy, someone could twist an ankle or two on the sidewalk and, in other words, wouldn’t find their way in the darkness. Not only are the streets dark, but also the access roads for coal and firewood—the so-called “alleys.” In those alleys at night, thieves of various sorts hide and steal chickens, etc. A person with good intentions doesn’t go there at night. THE NEW CLUB IS ASLEEP! A civic club has been formed here, that is, the “Ironton City Sons Club,” which was supposed to be the “best” of them all. Evidently something has gone wrong there—and that’s a shame, because it could have done a lot of good for the local Polish community. Come on, citizens, to work—wake up, all of you! FROM THE SOCIETY OF OUR LADY OF CZĘSTOCHOWA. On Sunday, the usual monthly meeting. The societies are developing fairly well, though there still aren’t enough of them / not enough participation. Among others, the Society of Our Lady of Częstochowa, Polish Union in America No. 81, is doing quite well financially and has the largest number of members. The monthly meeting will take place on Sunday, June 14, 1914, in the parish hall at 2 p.m. All who wish to belong to this society may come to this meeting, and they will be warmly received. - The Board 1914-06-17 KNIFE AT WORK AFTER THE PICNIC. An unknown “knife-knight.” In Ironton a Polish society picnic took place. When Franciszek Heretka, from No. 125 Wheatfield St., returned from the picnic, he stopped in to see his friend, Wiktor Brusko, in Tonawanda. Meeting another comrade there, he drank one or two with him, and then they quarreled. Both became worked up, and Heretka’s companion, having seized a knife, struck his friend in the head several times and bloodied him badly. The unconscious man was taken home, and Dr. C. W. Clendennan treated him. The police are looking for the knifeman, although they don’t know his name, and he certainly took off. A very sad and ugly end to a picnic and a bit of fun… And won’t our countrymen come to their senses in this regard—must individual wrongdoers always bring shame upon the whole community?! 1914-06-27 FROM NORTH TONAWANDA. The civic political club, that is, the Ironton City Sons Club, will hold its monthly meeting on Sunday, June 28, at one o’clock in the afternoon, in the parish hall. The presence of every member is desired. New members are invited to attend in as great numbers as possible. — With fraternal greetings, Stanisław Rosiński, president; Andrzej Niemiec, secretary. 1914-10-29 A neighborly quarrel. — Boiling water as a weapon. — A meeting on Oliver Street. A neighborhood dispute has resulted in Katarzyna Kowalska, of No. 127 Wheatfield Street, being confined to bed, as she has a badly scalded left arm. Mrs. Józefa Korgom, from the same address, is under police accusation, charged with third-degree assault. The case is to be heard today before City Judge George J. Smith. Mrs. Kowalska lives on the ground floor, and Mrs. Korgom on the second floor of the same house. Yesterday afternoon the two women quarreled over some small matter in the yard of the house. In anger, Korgom ran into the house, grabbed a pot of boiling water, and poured its contents over Kowalska. Mrs. Kowalska fainted, and several people rushed to her aid. The burns were treated by Dr. A. J. Martin. — In Mr. Dąka’s hall on Oliver Street, a meeting of the “Ironton” Republican Club was held. The mayoral candidate, W. A. Moore, addressed those gathered. On the… GREAT FIRE IN TONAWANDA HALF A MILLION DOLLARS IN DAMAGE. Three lumber yards and factories the victims. A huge fire, which caused about half a million dollars in damage, broke out yesterday just beyond the borders of our city, in Tonawanda, and even at this moment the fire has not been completely extinguished. It broke out shortly after midnight, at 12:30 a.m., but the fire department performed so valiantly that within an hour the blaze was already under control and thus localized. Above all, the firefighters took care that the fire did not spread to the residential houses in the vicinity of the “lumber yards.” The extinguishing and the work of the fire brigade were ham...It also added greatly to the disaster that, almost at the same time, a fire broke out at the Adamit Abrasive Company factories, located only two blocks from the burning lumber yards. The flames also engulfed the Buffalo Sled Company plant, causing damage there amounting to $5,000, and then the fire spread further to the department store warehouse of F. S. Pashen, inflicting major losses there as well. Rail traffic came to a halt because the flames raged across the tracks of the New York Central and Erie railroads. Traffic on the Buffalo, Lockport & Rochester line was likewise stopped, and all communication with Niagara Falls was suspended. All telegraphic communication in the city was cut off. Nearby homes and factories suffered heavy damage—not from fire, but from water—used to protect them from the flames and to save the surrounding neighborhood from further destruction. This fire was evidently set in several places, as firefighters found oakum soaked with kerosene in several different locations, even inside factories and lumber yards. As for the fire at the Adamit Abrasive factories, witnesses even reported seeing a young man lighting matches, applying them to something, and then running away… Near the raging flames, two tank cars filled with gasoline stood on the tracks. Had the fire reached them, a terrible explosion would have occurred—one that might have shaken the entire town to its foundations. Fortunately, brave railroad workers stepped forward and, amid smoke and flames, used a locomotive to pull those two cars out of the danger zone, risking their lives. Unfortunately, during this effort a mishap occurred: a gasoline train struck some unfortunate onlookers who were watching the fire. A 35-year-old man, Kalbot Abbott of Oliver Street, was severely injured and might lose—and likely will—…who lost his leg and will likely die in the hospital due to loss of blood. He was treated by Dr. R. H. Wilcox and taken in the doctor’s automobile to the General Hospital, but it appears he will not survive. Firefighter Fred Stickney was also seriously injured when a falling shield struck him on the head, but he is expected to recover. At the Adamite factory not one stone was left upon another, and the damage amounts to over $30,000. In short, it was a fire the like of which Tonawanda had never known, and the police are searching in every direction for the arsonists—but so far they have no “key,” nor any idea who or how someone could have been driven to commit such a criminal act, one that nearly caused the entire city to fall victim. 1914-11-20 A BRAVE COUNTRYMAN. A fire destroyed the house and barn of Jan Kuszkowski on Payne Avenue. At 1:30 a.m., the Kuszkowski family’s tenant, Antoni Robiński, noticed flames engulfing the house. Without losing his composure, the brave man awakened the household and then rescued five children one by one—three of whom were already half-suffocated by smoke, so artificial respiration had to be applied. About one hundred head of poultry burned in the barn. The loss amounts to $3,000 and is partially covered by insurance. THE SZEWCZYK BROTHERS ON A RAMPAGE. One of the late passersby found a man lying terribly injured in a pool of blood on Wheatfield Street the other night. It turned out to be Michał Olszowski, living at No. 9 Simson Street. He had a smashed head and a cut wound under his right eye. Upon regaining consciousness, Olszowski testified that he had been badly beaten by the brothers Jan and Józef Szewczyk from Ironton Street, with whom he had had a dispute for several months. The hearing of the Szewczyk brothers for assault is to take place on Friday. 1915-03-05 A fine for assault. — Drunk. — From the poor relief office. — Water purification. — Police examination. — Factory closure. Young Andrzej Cypak, son of Jerzy, of 77 Wheatfield Street, was fined $5 for assaulting Paweł Markowicz of Robinson Street. The altercation occurred two weeks ago in the Ironton district. For causing disturbances on a streetcar, two countrymen were not only thrown off into the street but also arrested. The judge found them guilty of drunkenness and sentenced both to 10 days in the county jail. The “heroes” are 50-year-old Jan Szantys and 32-year-old Jan Nowak of Lockport. They were put off on Oliver Street. The city spent only $70 on the poor in February—half as much as in the same month last year. Evidently poverty is felt less keenly at present. 1915-06-08 DISPUTE OVER SUNDAY SHOWS. Judge Marcus, in the higher Buffalo court, issued a ruling in favor of the owner of the moving-picture theater on Oliver Street and against Mayor Rancia’s decision banning Sunday performances. This decision is also important for the Dreamland theater, owned by a Pole, Mr. Gerlach. As we are informed, Mr. Gerlach no longer leases out his theater but operates it under his own management. The sensational case of a tin can containing the ashes of a newborn being buried in St. Francis Cemetery has not yet been clarified. The investigation into this mysterious matter has now been taken up by the City Physician of Buffalo, Dr. Fronczak, as there are indications that a certain Buffalo woman committed the crime. For stealing coal from the Central Railroad yards, two countrymen were arrested: Aleksander Kozłów of No. 24 Ironton Street and Dominik Grykel of Kent Street. Both paid fines of $3 each. In the past month, the following disease cases occurred in North Tonawanda: whooping cough—25 cases; cancer—7; mumps—4; typhus—3; scarlet fever—1; pneumonia—1. Whooping cough is spreading particularly widely. 1915-10-14 N. TONAWANDA, N.Y. OUR YOUTH ON TOP! In the Polish Ironton district of North Tonawanda, the police arrested an entire gang of railroad thieves who robbed two Erie Railroad freight cars. The theft was committed in the vicinity of Oliver Street—this “center of Polish life”—on the night from Saturday to Sunday. The following Poles were arrested: Grzegorz Zakazany, age 15, of No. 30, 7th Ave.; Wilhelm and Leon Kiljan, ages 12 and 13, of No. 3, 7th Ave.; Rudolf Klaus, age 14, of No. 1, 8th Ave.; Jan Wrażeń, age 12, of No. 2, 7th Ave.; and Piotr Krzemiński, age 13, of No. 1, 6th Ave. The boys stole goods—especially sugar—worth $100. Detectives found part of the loot in the homes of the parents of the underage hooligans. All of the boys were either sent to the “Father Baker” institution or placed on probation. 1915-10-16 OPENING OF EVENING SCHOOLS. On Monday, October 18, at 7:30 p.m., evening courses for foreigners will open at the Ironton School. English will be taught, along with other elementary subjects. The registration fee is $1.00, but it will be refunded if the student attends at least 80% of the lessons. In addition, under the same conditions, courses will be offered in business letter writing, geometric and technical drawing, etc. Poles should enroll in large numbers in these useful classes. [WORKER SHORTAGE] In both Tonawandas there is a shortage of workers for ordinary jobs, and for that reason many factories have raised wages just to get people to work. Especially in the sawmills there is an urgent need for laborers. The sawmills have increased wages by 25 to 50 cents per day. A worker now earns $2.25 a day there, and despite this the companies complain that they still have too few workers. [FATHER ARRESTED FOR SON'S RAILROAD CAR THEFT OF SUGAR] As a result of thefts of goods—especially sugar—from Erie Railroad cars, the father of one of the suspected Polish boys was arrested: Marcin Krzemiński of No. 7, 6th Avenue. Part of the stolen goods was found in his home, and therefore Mr. Krzemiński will be held responsible for receiving/harboring stolen property. The judge postponed the hearing. Mr. Marcin’s son, Piotr Krzemiński, was sent for penance to “Father Baker’s.” 1915-10-28 CONCERT FOR THE BENEFIT OF THE CHURCH. On Tuesday, the 15th of this month, a large concert of choirs will be held in the hall of the Dreamland Theater, organized by the parish of Our Lady of Częstochowa on Oliver Street. After the concert, a dance will take place. The proceeds from the evening are intended for the new Polish church, whose construction will begin in Ironton in the spring. Participating in the concert will be the “Lutnia” choir from Niagara Falls, the church choir from Black Rock, and the “Harmonia” choir from North Tonawanda. [FIRE ON 8TH] In the kitchen of the home of Mr. Jan Iłonek on 8th Avenue, a fire broke out in the stove. The fire department extinguished it skillfully using chemical apparatus. The damage amounts to about $50. The workers on the Wheatfield railroad, employed in the construction of the state road near Chestnut Ridge, have abandoned the job. They claim that the contractor has not paid them their wages for two months. Piotr Baha of 6th Avenue was summoned before the Grand Jury for defaming Piotr Zaborowski of the same street. The case has been dragging on since August, when during a neighborhood quarrel Baha struck his compatriot with a brick and severely smashed his head. The accused is at liberty on bail. 1915-11-24 IMPORTANT NOTICE. We inform our esteemed countrymen that in North Tonawanda the women have joined together in solidarity to organize a new society. On Sunday, November 27, a meeting of the newly organized society was held in the parish hall. There were more than 30 participants. At this meeting, 24 new members signed up, and from among them a committee was elected to lead the undertaking, consisting of the following persons: Maryanna Gerlach, president; Maryanna Witkowska, vice president; Franciszka Janiszewska, financial secretary; Helena Nadolewska, recording secretary; Michalina Rosińska, trustee; Dominika Glogora, trustee; Walerya Nowak, marshal; Anna Frąszczewska, doorkeeper. The committee was chosen from among capable women, under whose leadership we expect successful results. The society resolved to hold its next meeting on Sunday, February 2, in the parish hall, in the evening, for the purpose of completing applications and refining organizational matters. We invite the remaining women who belong to this organization and wish to join to come forward. Younger parish girls are also welcome. The society adopted the name “Star of Victory” and will affiliate with the P.N.A. It is the first women’s group in North Tonawanda, to which we wish every success. — Fr. Janiszewska, secretary. 1915-12-01 VISIT OF THE SECRETARY OF STATE. Last evening the annual banquet of the local Chamber of Industry was held. The beautiful auditorium hall of the YMCA was filled to capacity, with guests also attending from Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Lockport. The principal speaker and guest of honor was the Secretary of State of New York, Francis M. Hugo, who particularly emphasized the importance of the navigational canal for Tonawanda. Congressman Dempsey spoke about the nation’s military preparedness. A speech was also delivered by Mr. O’Keefe, secretary of the Buffalo Chamber of Commerce. For smashing Walenty Kranth’s head with a stone on Second Avenue, Piotr Cyran of 6th Avenue was arrested. Kranth is confined ill at home. The attack took place at night after a parish dance. The hearing is to be held today. Police were notified that a band of intoxicated Poles was fighting on Oliver Street near 6th Avenue, by a certain saloon. However, when the police arrived at the “battlefield,” the valiant countrymen had already vanished without a trace. In critical condition in the hospital lies 30-year-old Antoni Horka of No. 100 Simson Street. He slightly cut a finger on his hand; the wound became so badly infected that doctors fear for his life. After a week’s vacation, evening schools have now reopened in Ironton and Goundry. 1916-09-01 Next Monday, that is on the national holiday “Labor Day,” a parish picnic will be held on the grounds between 8th and 9th Streets. This picnic was originally scheduled for July 4, but for important reasons had to be postponed. All proceeds from the picnic will be devoted to the construction of a new church, as the current church building has become too small for the local Polish community, which has grown very rapidly in recent times. Festivities will last all day, with the main attraction being a picnic football match between the “Polish Defenders” club and a club made up of skilled players, led by Mr. Stanisław Rosiński, who will surely prove to everyone that he has not yet retired from athletic competition. The Polish community is growing every day. Recently many families have come to our city, especially from Buffalo, so that today there is no housing at all available for newcomers. On side streets one can notice home construction, and in the spring many new houses will certainly appear. In the past week Poles purchased fourteen building lots on Centre Avenue, East Avenue, and First Avenue, through Mr. Prelewicz. There is plenty of work in local factories, and everyone is earning good wages. There will be no Polish candidates for municipal offices in the upcoming primaries this year. However, Polish voters will support those candidates who have shown goodwill and have aided Poles when needed. It turns out that the number of Polish votes is far too small for such a large Polish population. There are only 155 Polish votes. At Sunday’s meeting of the Falcons (Sokół), applications from twenty-two new candidates will be considered. The ranks of the “gray team” in North Tonawanda continue to grow. The matter of purchasing land for a new Sokol Hall will be discussed, as well as the sale of a lot on Centre Avenue. The Sokół organization is steadily working toward one goal: to erect a new Sokol Hall as soon as possible, where people may gather and deliberate not only on the development of the organization, but also on the needs and improvements of the Polish district. Following a complaint by Mrs. Julia Dziwanowska of 144 Ironton Street, police arrested Filip Gutkowski of 696 Oliver Street on charges of third-degree assault and battery. At the preliminary hearing held yesterday morning, it was learned that the accused allegedly struck Mrs. Dziwanowska after she reprimanded him for supposed improper behavior toward her daughter in her apartment. By agreement of attorneys for both sides, the court postponed the case until next Thursday. The accused posted bail and remains free pending trial. After a period of inactivity, the Zorza Benevolent Society intends to resume work in earnest and is organizing a theatrical performance, the date of which will be decided at the next meeting. Members have begun collecting donated items. The Polish community—especially Polish patients—is pleased, as they can now be treated by a Polish physician, Dr. W. Tyszliński, who has lived here for several weeks. A Polish dentist is expected to arrive soon. The school year will begin next week. The Felician Sisters have already arrived, and classrooms are being cleaned daily so that there will be no obstacles next Tuesday. 1917-07-06 STABBED HIM IN THE BACK. In Ironton, North Tonawanda, a picnic and celebration was taking place, which among others was attended by Antoni Zawadzki, a 30-year-old local resident. While Zawadzki was engaged in conversation with several Polish young women near Center Street, suddenly—under cover of darkness and in the shadow of the trees—some criminal attacked him and plunged a large knife into his back, then disappeared into the night, unseen by any reliable witnesses to the murderous assault. Dr. Tarasiński provided medical assistance to Zawadzki, but there is little hope of keeping him alive. 1921-03-12 RUSIN AND JAWORSKI ARRESTED. After a chase and a gunfight with revolvers, the police succeeded in arresting Stefan Rusin, of 15 Fifteenth Avenue, and Fred Jaworski, of 2 Miller Avenue, in the city of North Tonawanda, early in the morning. Both are 19 years old and are charged with robbing a freight car. During the pursuit, the police opened fire. At ten o’clock in the evening, the police received a report that someone was breaking into freight cars. One car was standing on the tracks leading toward the city of Lockport. When Chief Ryan and the officers arrived at the scene, the two suspects jumped from the car and began shooting, then fled across the tracks into the Ironton district. 1921-05-20 A double celebration on Sunday, May 22. — In the morning, schoolchildren will receive their First Holy Communion. In the afternoon, a parade of societies and the May celebration. — Poles decorate their homes with Polish and American flags. — The Harmonia Singing Society launches a membership drive. — Personal news. — Piernowski’s wife threw a plate at her husband. — An interesting court chronicle. — Polish affairs. Sunday, May 22, has entered the history of the local parish of Our Lady of Częstochowa as a landmark day of religious and national importance. It is the anniversary of the adoption of the Constitution of May 3rd — one of Poland’s greatest national holidays — and also the day of First Holy Communion for schoolchildren. As every year, all societies affiliated with the parish of Our Lady of Częstochowa have been invited by the parish priest to take part in this solemn occasion. The children will be led in a ceremonial procession from the school to the church. The solemn Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Benedykowski, who will deliver an address appropriate to the moment before distributing Holy Communion. Overall, the Sunday celebration at the parish promises to be impressive. That same Sunday at 1:30 p.m., church and national societies will assemble into a demonstrative procession to mark the great May celebration. The Polish community of North Tonawanda is expected to honor this great national holiday — the anniversary of the Constitution — in a fitting manner. It is a great day for all of Poland and for Poles everywhere. During the procession, Poles will decorate their homes with national flags. It is a civic duty in North Tonawanda that every Polish man and woman be properly dressed on this day, and especially that national colors be worn. The well-liked Harmonia Singing Society, which owns its own building, has begun a campaign to recruit new members. At its last meeting, each member pledged to bring at least two new candidates within two months. Citizens and youth of North Tonawanda should join the Harmonia Singing Society in large numbers. It promotes Polish song — and everyone knows that Polish song is the most effective defense against the denationalization of the Polish people. Children and youth who join Harmonia gain access to a highly valued community. Thanks to Harmonia, cultural and educational work among local youth continues to advance, nurturing the young Polish spirit. Long live song! After the meeting, Harmonia held a so-called “Smok” (social gathering) for members. The evening was lively and cheerful, with games, entertainment, and discussions for the youth. In short, the meeting was a great success, and the organization benefited greatly. Many people shop at the “Rozmaitości” (Varieties) store on Oliver Street, owned by Mr. Józef Pawlik. The store offers goods at the lowest prices, while guaranteeing honesty and courtesy. The slogan is “Buy from your own.” Everything we can recommend. Last Sunday, a lively christening celebration took place at the home of local residents on Oliver Street, attended by many relatives and friends. The festivities lasted late into the night. The godmother of the newborn was Miss Józefa Pawlik, and the godfather Mr. Bolesław Kaczmarek. At a generously set table, guests enjoyed themselves warmly…, and the good cheer was enhanced by a speech from Mr. Teofil Lipiński of Buffalo, formerly a resident of Tonawanda and founder of a butter shop near the parish school. Miss Zofia Pawlicka was asked to collect donations. The following contributions were made: Teofil Lipiński — $1.00 Mr. and Mrs. Franonek — $1.00 Mr. and Mrs. Susanek — $1.00 Mr. and Mrs. Waszkowski — $1.00 Mrs. Dembek — $1.00 S. Dembek — $0.25 Mr. and Mrs. Kaszubski — $1.00 Mr. and Mrs. Pawlicki — $2.00 Mr. Jakowski — $0.50 Total — $8.75 The money was presented to the parish priest, Fr. Benedykowski, who expressed heartfelt thanks to the donors. Because the dinner that his wife cooked and served to her husband, Józef Piernowski of Ironton Street, did not suit his taste, Piernowski threw a bowl of soup at his wife, spilling it so badly that it splashed over the tableware, and then continued throwing objects at her. A plate struck Piernowski in the eye, injuring him; nevertheless, he managed to flee. The injuries were significant. The police were notified and an officer arrived on a motorcycle, but Piernowski had already left the house and hid in a place known as a “bimber” joint called “Pod Krzyżem.” He was eventually found and placed under arrest. He is charged with assault and battery against his wife in the third degree. 1922-02-07 BANDITS RAMPAGE IN NORTH TONAWANDA Severe beating of the owner of a soft-drink shop. Frank Nowak arrested. In the Ironton district of the town of North Tonawanda, a major disturbance broke out recently when police received reports about lawless bandits. The result of the police investigation was the arrest of one of the alleged bandits. For now, police have not yet filed formal charges and are awaiting further developments. Police arrested Frank Nowak, age 28, of 48 Third Avenue, as one of the alleged bandits who attacked Jan Brzeziński, owner of a soft-drink shop at 5 Fifth Avenue. Brzeziński sustained such serious injuries that he was beaten unconscious; during the fight several gunshots were fired. Later that evening, police learned that a gang had broken into the home of Frank Czerwiński at 38 Seventh Avenue and assaulted participants of a gathering there. Police believe that the same gang was responsible for the attack on Brzeziński. 1923-02-08 Poles in North Tonawanda are actively working to obtain citizenship for as many people as possible. A special session of the naturalization court held this week granted citizenship to 37 new Polish citizens in North Tonawanda. Much credit for this work is owed to Mr. Stanisław Rosiński, who helped prepare the first papers and served as a principal witness for several of our compatriots. This year it is expected that Poles in North Tonawanda will gain approximately 100 new citizens of this country. In North Tonawanda, new enterprises are being built—specifically, two Poles, Mr. Bork and Mr. Krasiński, are constructing a large new coal yard at a cost of $25,000 at Ironton Avenue and 6th Avenue. This is a business that will undoubtedly develop rapidly here. Much is being said about an upcoming bazaar to be organized by the Slavic Citizens of the Polish Home in early March. The bazaar is intended to increase financial resources to help pay down part of the debt on the building, and at the same time to maintain the Polish Home and construct a new bowling alley, which the youth have been strongly requesting. All societies operating in North Tonawanda have pledged to assist with this bazaar. The Polish Women’s Society “Zorza” and the Rosary Women’s Society will certainly organize their own booths. All booths will be stocked with abundant goods, which are already in good supply. On Thursday, February 1, an elegant surprise party was held at the home of Mrs. Marya Jetter on 5th Avenue. Participants in this pleasant gathering were presented with beautiful gifts. The party was held in honor of Mrs. Marya’s name day. The following ladies took part: H. Zakrzewska, Z. Okójska, G. Krzywda, A. Turmanek, J. Pawlicka, J. Neel, A. Stempińska, Mrs. Woloszen, J. Kotecka, and Miss Kwiatkowska. The celebrant extends heartfelt thanks to all who contributed to making the event enjoyable. The Polish Women’s Society Zorza is organizing a masquerade on Tuesday, February 6, at the Polish Home. Reportedly, beautiful prizes will be awarded—unmatched by any previous masquerade held by any society. The active organizing committee is working tirelessly to ensure the event’s success. Proceeds from the event are designated for a noble cause, as Polish women are always ready to offer help.
Village of Niagara, advertising poster at Long Homestead (1824-07-05).jpg
Mary Long, portrait at Long Homestead (c.1840).jpg
Benjamin Long, portrait at Long Homestead (c.1840).jpg
John Carr buys 111 acres of Lot 75, deed (1868-04-27).jpg
This Indenture, made the Twenty-seventh day of April in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-eight BETWEEN Arthur J. Ayer, Susan S. Ayer his wife of the Town of Wheatfield, Niagara County, of the first part, and John Carr of the same place. of the second part, Witnesseth, That the said party of the first part, in consideration of the sum of Six Thousand, six hundred sixty-seven dollars and twenty cents, to them in hand paid, hath sold, and by these presents do grant and convey to the said party of the second part, his heirs and assigns, ALL that tract or parcel of land situate in the Town of Wheatfield Niagara County State of New York being the northerly half of Lot number seventy-five and bounded as follows to wit East by the Mile line and West by the Niagara River; North by the [north] line of lot seventy-four & South by a line parallel with the north line of said lot number seventy-five. Containing one hundred and eleven acres & 12/100 acres of land. Excepting the lands conveyed to the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Rail Road Company & the Canandaigua & Niagara Falls Rail Road Company! This being the same lands conveyed by deed to Orson Shepard and Jonathan S. Ayers dated Oct 15th 1855 & recorded in the County Clerk’s Office of Niagara County Oct 31st 1855 in Book of Deeds No 65 at page 495. Quick abstract (key facts) Date: 27 April 1868 Grantors: Arthur J. Ayers and Susan B. Ayers (wife), Wheatfield, Niagara County, NY Grantee: John Carr, Wheatfield Consideration: $6,667.20 Land: Northerly half of Lot 75, Wheatfield East: Mile Line West: Niagara River North: Lot 74 line South: line parallel with Lot 75 north line Acreage: 111.12 acres Exceptions: prior conveyances to Buffalo & Niagara Falls Rail Road Co. and Canandaigua & Niagara Falls Rail Road Co. Prior deed breadcrumb: deed to Orson Shepard and Jonathan S. Ayers dated Oct 15, 1855, recorded Oct 31, 1855, Deeds Book 65, p. 495 (Niagara County Clerk)
Born 1817 in Dromore Parish, Down, Ireland. In Wheatfield by 1860. https://www.ancestry.com/family-tree/person/tree/22937845/person/272174679708/facts?usePUBJs=true
Tonawandas, Sanborn insurance map overview (1913).jpg
Wurlitzer player piano, ad (New York Tribune, 1918-03-31).pdf
Along the frontier, Erie Canal placed New York First, article (Tonawanda News, 1924-11-18).pdf
A. Weston and Son, postcard receipt (1882).jpg
Tondas out for season, article (Niagara Gazette, 1974-10-20).png
Brief history and large ads for North Tonawanda Land Co., Ironton Land Co., A.W. Story portrait (Tonawanda News, 1894-06-12).pdf
History includes Cleveland investors. North Tonawanda Land Co. located in Real Estate Exchange Bldg. List of factories within last two years.
New North Tonawanda officials, Gilmore, photo (Buffalo News, 1914-12-31).pdf
Tonawanda Iron and Steel Co., note (Engineering and Mining Journal, 1889-07-13).png
Tonawanda Iron and Steel Co., note (Engineering and Mining Journal, 1889-01-19).png
Tonawanda Iron and Steel and Tonawanda Island, photo (c.1950).png
Tondas take establishment to court, article (Niagara Gazette, 1976-10-17).jpg
The Transfer Lumber and Shingle Company, letterhead and bill (1906).jpg
Payne Wheatfield registry drama, article 1865-11-01_002.pdf
P. W. Scribner, advertising card (c1890).jpg
NT Centennial edition, Payne, Felton, Bodoni, article (Tonawanda News, 1965-06-26).pdf
Martinsville Hotel and brass band, photo (c.1880).jpg
Joseph E. Gilmore, obit (Tonawanda News, 1948-03-30).png
Jack's White Flash, service station, O.iver and Linwood, photo (Ancestry, 1938).png
Ironton football team, newspaper photo (1926).jpg
Indian bones uncovered, article (Buffalo Express, 1884-08-14.pdf
History of Twin Cities, Millener, article (Tonawanda News, 1921-04-19).pdf
Highlights in history of the Tonawandas, article (Tonawanda News, 1930-04-07).pdf
Close sketches of business, municipal growth of the Tonawandas.
Gratwick Hose Christmas party, Santa and three pigs, photo (19498-12).jpg
Fredreick Robertson and Co. Bankers, illustrated ad (Tonawanda News, (1925-05-04).png
Christian Wittkiwski obit, 1939-07-14.jpg
Cholera, Ironton home afflicted, article (Buffalo News, 1892-10-07).pdf
Chokes to death as Vic plays, 46 Sweeney, article (Tonawanda News, 1923-02-23).jpg
Carl F. Platter, obit (Tonawanda News, 1985-08-06).jpg
Walenty Krzeminski, Polish-born 1865 and others, photo (Ancestry, before 1947).png
Rose Zoladz at 17, photo (Ancestry 1938).png
Rose Scrivo making punch cards at Remington Rand, photo (Ancestry, 1943).jpg
Rosebrock w Auto-Kart on Payne Ave, photo (Ancestry c1915).jpg
Oliver and Center, across from OLC, carriage, Krzeminski, Frances and Cecilia, photo (1915).jpg
Mabell Lydia Zaggel, photo (Ancestry, c.1910.jpg
Joseph Albert Grzenkowski at his wedding reception, photo (Ancestry 1923-08-10).jpg
John Pasciak holding granddaughter Theresa, 418 Rogers St, photo (Ancestry, c1930.jpg
John Olewnick Jr marries Rose Zoladz at OLC, photo (Ancesty, 1942-01-10).png
Grunzweigs trimming hedges, Tonawanda (Ancestry, 1940).png
Girl on bike, 59 Allen Street, Kaufmann (Rev. Helmuth) house, photo (Ancestry, c1916).png
Family with bike, 59 Allen Street, Kaufmann (Rev. Helmuth) house, photo (Ancestry, c1916).png
Family next to garden wall, 59 Allen Street, Kaufmann (Rev. Helmuth) house, photo (Ancestry, c1916).png
Denny & Gladys with Evelyn Teal, photo (Ancestry c1934).jpg
Christian Flateau, Wurlitzer employee badge (c1930).jpg
Celso, Serena, Carlo Merletti, East Schenck, photo (Ancestry, c1945).jpg
But, Lawrence, Sister Mary Kobos, Walenty Krzeminski (3 unk), North Tonawanda, photo (Ancestry, before 1947).png
Bush's Bridge, Rosseau, Edward, Ida (Sahr), photo (Ancestry, c1940).jpg
219 Robinson, HST, photo (Ancestry, 1888).png
59 Allen Street, Grandpa Kaufmann (Rev. Helmuth) house, photo (Ancestry, c1916).png
William Schultz, unknown solder, Fred Schultz, Hagen?, photo (Ancestry, c. 1917).jpg
Uncle Jimmy in Grandpa's chicken coop, 41 Bryant, photo (Ancestry).jpg
Tony Vona and Nellie Yates wedding party, photo (Ancestry, 1938-07).jpg
Tofts, 107 Keil, photo (Ancestry, 1918).jpg
Toft family, flags, 109 Keil Street, photo (Ancestry c1915).jpg
Toft family, 109 Keil Street, photo (Ancestrt c1915).jpg
Sweeney Street farm, George Stagg and Uncle Fred Zaggel (on right), photo (Ancestry).jpg
Sharlene & Sandy, Sister & Brother, Falconer St. Home, photo (Ancestry c1940).jpg
Mary Keil, 21 Jackson Street, photo (Ancestry, c.1937).jpg
Maria Piepenhagen center front, 100 Washingtin St., photo (Ancestry, c1940).jpg
Lockwood Joyce Rathbun, mother and baby, photo (Ancestry, 1924).jpg
Keil family farm on Nash Road, photo (Ancestry c1894).jpg
JMLT portrait, 109 Keil, photo (c1915).jpg
Henry Louis Keil and his sisters, Nad Rd farm, photo (Ancestry c1894).jpg
Great Great Grandpa and Grandma Zimmerman, NT (Ancestry c 1890).jpg
Friedens confirmation, photo (Ancestry, 1918).jpg
Chris and Ed Flateau, wrong side of fence at Falls, photo (Ancestry).jpg
Charles A. Toye Sr. and other Toyes, photo (Ancestry c. 1950).jpg
Carl Platter fishing, photo (Ancestry, c1930).jpg
Ascension church, Wilma Toye, Papsidero wedding, photo (Ancestry, c1950).jpg
Adam Kuglin with Christian Wittkowsky family, 38 Geneva Street, photo (Ancestry, 1888).jpg
Erie's Buffalo Tondas, hockey puck (c1973).jpg
Sketch of early North Tonawanda history in The Ganson Street Tigers Go to War by Frederick T. Adcock.htm
The calmness of this virgin forest was disturbed in the year 1801 when soldiers of the young Republic were ordered to cut a road through the dank woodlands. General James Wilkinson commanded the expedition intent on linking the garrison at Fort Niagara on the lower Niagara River with the settlement of New Amsterdam (Buffalo) on the upper reaches of the watercourse. The US Government had entrusted the mission to an officer with a checkered past. General Wilkinson was a flabby, balding Revolutionary War veteran and was later found to be a spy in the service of Spain. Historian Robert Leckie summarized his career as, “a general who never won a battle or lost a court-martial.” But, Wilkinson and his command succeeded with the construction of the military road and a series of bridges needed to traverse numerous tributaries feeding the grand river. A rough-hewn bridge constructed across Tonawanda Creek allowed the uninterrupted passage of military personnel and goods between the isolated settlements. To protect the vital span, the US Army constructed a log blockhouse and stationed a small detachment of blue-coated infantrymen. Among the guard was Lieutenant John Sweeney, a Buffalo businessman, who would become a prominent land speculator along Tonawanda Creek years later. In 1808, Henry Anguish became the first settler along the banks of the creek. He raised a small cabin and cleared some farmland. Anguish’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to build a tavern three years later, and his best, and possibly his only, customers were the soldiers from the blockhouse a short distance away. Settlers quickly developed the lands near the bridge and along the military road. The dense forests of oak trees disappeared under the swing of broad axes and the cleared land was cultivated. The prosperity of the frontier community was destroyed during the War of 1812 when British soldiers torched nearly every structure along the Niagara River. American militiamen had burned the sturdy bridge over Tonawanda Creek in 1813 to prevent the advance of the British upon the village of Buffalo. This action had only temporarily saved the village. A few days later, British forces crossed the Niagara River and burned Buffalo, leaving only the stone foundations and chimneys in the smoldering ruins. After the peace, the hardy settlers returned to their charred homes to rebuild their lives. Pioneering men such as Colonel John Sweeney, George Goundry, and Stephen Jacobs utilized the wood and water resources of the region to accumulate small fortunes and the settlement along the creek grew and prospered. With the westward expansion of the nation, the need to ease travel and stimulate commerce became an important concern. Businessmen and government officials looked to mimic the canals of Europe as a solution. A backwater politician named DeWitt Clinton spearheaded a bold plan to cut a canal across New York State. The plan was masterminded by a collection of brilliant engineers and the construction of the longest canal in the world was begun. In a few short years, the waters of Tonawanda Creek were incorporated into the Erie Canal system and the area’s population quickly boomed. The canal, which opened in 1825, stretched across New York State bringing commerce and wealth to ports located on the waterway. Settlers traveling westward on overcrowded packet boats flooded Western New York, while other barges carried lumber and produce to large markets in the eastern part of the state. The Erie Canal also carried hundreds of European immigrants into Western New York. These settlers, mainly of German origin, searched for work in the mills and purchased tracts of land to farm. The area at the confluence of the Niagara River and Tonawanda Creek became synonymous with the lumber trade. Numerous ships carrying timber from nearby Grand Island, America’s midlands, and the wilds of Canada, docked at the local wharfs. More than one hundred businesses related to the lumber industry were located in the Tonawandas over the next 120 years, and the small port on the Niagara River was known as the greatest lumber port in the world. Eleven years after the opening of the Erie Canal, another technological innovation was introduced to the villages along this waterway. Gangs of Irish laborers laying iron rails worked their way to the area. A short time later, the chugging steam locomotives of the new industrial age began to transform the economic and transportation infrastructure of the fledgling settlements. Despite the coming of the railroad, the presence of sweating draft animals pulling barges on the canal continued for another fifty years. Soon after the arrival of the railroad, steam-powered machinery began to alter the lumber industry. Sooty clouds of black smoke dirtied the skies and massive piles of machine-processed lumber dominated the landscape. By the autumn of 1861, it was evident the industrial output of the villages huddled against the banks of Tonawanda Creek would be utilized in the war effort against the southern states. Early in the war, local civic leader Lewis S. Payne received permission from the government to raise a company of soldiers for the 100th New York State Volunteer Infantry Regiment, nicknamed the “Board of Trade Regiment”. The unit was organized by the Buffalo Board of Trade, a civic organization that fostered goodwill between merchants in the big port city. The regiment marched off to war in 1862, its ranks deluged with German immigrants. During the Civil War, casualties decimated the 100th Infantry Regiment and Payne was captured by rebel troops. Upon his return from the war, he found the villages that straddled the creek had separated and the community on the north side of the muddy waters had incorporated, naming itself North Tonawanda. The split meant more to the tax collector than the average citizen, and many continued to traverse the wood bridges to labor in the shops and mills located throughout the two towns now located in separate counties. Lumbering and brick-making industries dominated the economic scene until 1870 when the Niagara River Iron Company fired up its blast furnaces on the north side of the creek. The iron company was in need of many new workers and some of the first immigrants from Eastern Europe and Italy relocated to the Lumber City. These unskilled settlers, who had suffered from chronic poverty and oppression in Russia, Sicily, and southern Italy, took on the lowest paying jobs and lived in shacks constructed from discarded wood and packing crates. The new immigrants clustered together on undeveloped parcels of land and found mutual support in a society that did not understand or accept their languages, customs, and superstitions. “The Ku Klux Klan was big in North Tonawanda in the old days,” said Ganson Street resident Patrick DePaolo. “Every bridge leading into the city had a sign on it that said, ‘No Coloreds’. They [the Klan] weren’t fond of Italians either, they called us dagos, wops, and garlic eaters and the Italians suffered a lot of abuse. That’s how the immigrant neighborhoods formed. The Italians had their own church, school, and stores. Everybody knew everybody else in the neighborhood and they looked out for each other.” Outsiders looked upon the Italians with scorn. The immigrants, especially from southern Italy and Sicily, were very superstitious. Pierced ears were common, even with infants, in the belief that gold near the eyes produced keen eyesight. Bewitching by means of a sordid glance, known as, Malocchio, or “the evil eye”, was greatly feared and a ritual involving olive oil and cold water could only lift the curse. There was also the superstition that mentioning Satan after midnight would bring one face-to-face with the evil devil. The custom of leaving food on the dinner table on November 2, or All Souls Day, in the belief that dead relatives would return to the family was alien to those who were not accustomed to the practices of the Roman Catholic Church. At the turn of the twentieth century, North Tonawanda had been incorporated as a city and industrial based businesses were booming. By this time, nearly one million Italian immigrants had also entered the country and settled mainly in large cities on the East Coast. Seeking to escape city slums and overcrowded tenement houses, many Italians boarded canal boats and worked their way into Central and Western New York seeking employment in port towns located on the vast highway of water. The Tonawandas, with its large industrial base, became an important destination for immigrants searching for work and the “American Dream”. Menial jobs were readily found in factories that produced lumber, bricks, and textiles. Employment could also be obtained in other local companies that manufactured musical instruments, automobiles, carousels, and even chocolate. The Twin Cities were old industrial towns known for manufacturing many products including lumber, iron, steel, paper, textile, musical instruments, amusement rides, watercraft, and business and industrial machinery. Thousands of European immigrants labored in the shops and factories in their quest to fulfill the American dream. The ribbon of water that separates Tonawanda Island from the mainland is identified as the “Little River”, a channel for commercial shipping and a favorite swimming area for local boys. Shown in the foreground is Tonawanda Iron Corporation. The mills of the International Paper Company, located on the northern part of the island, are shown in the background. (Courtesy of the Historical Society of the Tonawandas) By 1910, the Buffalo Bolt Company set up a production facility on the northern reaches of Oliver Street, and wooden boats were sliding down the ways at the Richardson Boat Company on Sweeney Street. Numerous other subsidiary businesses, such as bakeries, taverns, grocers, and retail stores, employed hundreds of others by the onset of the Great War in 1914. The welfare of the citizens was also cared for with the construction of a library with funds donated by wealthy industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, and the building of a hospital under the direction of LeGrand S. DeGraff. The influx of immigrants led to a boom of house construction in both cities. New streets were surveyed and cleared of brush, as rows of simple wood-frame structures rapidly appeared on the dirt byways. Streets named for early settlers or the social prominent were developed a few short blocks from the industrial hub located near the waterfront. The small homes, often constructed by the immigrants themselves, were erected on new streets named Tremont, Bryant, Lincoln, Geneva, and Ganson. Ganson Street was named for Kate Ganson, a socialite who had married local businessman James Sweeney. The first house was built on Ganson Street in 1876 and over the next forty years other lots on the street were sold and developed. The humble street of twenty-eight wood-frame structures became home to many laborers who toiled in local shops and factories. Men like Toni Carere, Michael Belviso, Anthony DePaolo, Peter Malone, Toni Stefanucci, and Anthony Versaci skimped and saved for years to purchase a lot and build a house. After the Armistice in 1918 ending World War I, the growing industrial base in the Tonawandas needed more workers, and streams of immigrants came from Europe. Germans escaping the economic calamity in their homeland found employment and camaraderie in Gratwick, an immigrant community in the northern environs of North Tonawanda named for William H. Gratwick, a nineteenth century lumber baron...
That Ironton disaster, article (Niagara Gazette, 1874-10-21).png
Pig iron, ad (Buffalo Courier, 1874-07-14.png
Niagara River Iron Co. dissolved, article (Niagara Gazette, 1884-01-29).png
Materials moved to Buffalo, article (Niagara Gazette, 1879-08-27).png
Iron Works to be sold at auction, article (Niagara Gazette, 1879-04-23).png
An Iron Works Boom, article (Buffalo News, 1888-12-30).png
Niagara River Iron Corporation, map detail (1876).png
Niagara River Iron Corporation, map detail (1875).png
Joseph E. Gilmore and others (Georges at 18 Marion and a Joseph at 282 Payne, City Directory 1905-1906).JPG
Joseph E. Gilmore is with Iron and Steel Works as early as 1896. On Board of Health in 1915. Joseph E. Gilmore of TI & S holds first public office as Board of Health, one of "one of North Tonawanda's best known citizens" (12/31/14) Wife dies days after giving birth to twins, daughter dies before at 20. Residences: 305 Wheatfield, 248 Payne. More Gilmores: Gilmore, Anna B. July 1969 Gilmore, Charles January 8, 1923 Ton. News [missing?] Gilmore, David Bruce Died July 16, 1976 Gilmore, Dudley W. Died November 6, 1944 Ton. News 11/6/44 pg. 1 Gilmore, George W. Died February 2, 1956 Ton. News 2/2/56 pg. 1 Elmlawn Gilmore, Glen B. Died October 25, 1985 Ton. News 10/28/85 Gilmore, Grace March 20, 1922 Ton. News Gilmore, H.L. Died December 30, 1906 Ton. News 12/31/06 pg. 4 Gilmore, Harry d. Jan. 18, 1957 age 65 Ton.News 1-19-1957 p.1 Miami, FL Gilmore, Isaac T. Died February 17, 1933 Ton. News 2/17/33 Gilmore, Jean D. (nee Weber) d.Feb.18, 2008 Ton.News 2-20-2008 Acacia Park Gilmore, John Gibson Died June 20, 1990 Ton. News 6/22/90 Bear Ridge Cem. Gilmore, John Wakefield Died January 7, 1952 Ton. News 1/8/52 pg. 5 Acacia Park Gilmore, Joseph E. Died March 29, 1948 Ton. News 3/30/48 pg. 1 Gilmore, Lena Died July 18, 1946 Ton. News 7/19/46 pg. 4 Gilmore, Marie A. Died June 28, 1924 Ton. News 6/30/24 pg. 1 7/01/24 pg. 4 Forest Lawn Gilmore, Martha C. July 18, 1921 Ton. News Gilmore, Mrs. Daisy L. Died April 13, 1935 Ton. News 4/13/35 Gilmore, Nellie April 22, 1920 Ton. News Gilmore, Ralph F. Died April 3, 1962 4/3/62 Bear Ridge Cem. Gilmore, Rits A. (nee Miller) d. July 16, 2009 Ton.News 7-18-2009 Elmlawn Cem. Gilmore, Robert Died April 24, 1926 Ton. News 4/26/26 pg. 3 Forest Lawn Gilmore, Rosetta (Marjorie) Died December 31, 1989 Ton. News 1/1/90 Bear Ridge Cem.
"Gillmore" or "Gilmore" first appearances in city records (1891).jpg
1891: "Gillmore" on Ironton subdivision plat map 1905: Tax sale Common Council. 1907, 1914, "Gillmore" Ave 1909: "Gilmore" in city directory 1938: School mentioned as "Gillmore"
Soup Lady photos (Dennis Reed Jr., 2025-12-23).png
Gratwick School wins trophy for county bicycle safety campaign, photos (1948-04).jpg
Gratwick School History, faculty (1906).jpg
Gratwick School elms getting a haircut, photo article (1949-04).jpg
Gratwick School county bicycle safety campaign, photos (1948-04).jpg
Projected improvements at Tonawanda, Cleveland and Albany investors, article (Rochester Republican, 1848-12-07).jpg
Letting of the locks, article (Republic, 1847-07-16).jpg
Another project for a new commercial city, Cleveland and Albany forwarders, article (Schenectady Reflector via Express, 1848-12-22).jpg
Affairs at Tonawanda, Hinds enlarging canal to furnish elevator basin, article (Buffalo Daily Republic, 1849-05-25).jpg
Ray H. Bennett Lumber Co. Inc. Invoice (1921).jpg
Ray H. Bennett Lumber Co., letter (1921).jpg