Bestaste Mini Market, formerly Holiday, ad (1986-09-23).jpg
Bestaste grand opening, ad (1984-05-11).jpg
Buffalo Wings and Brewhouse, 653 Oliver, photo (Google Maps, 2021).jpg
Your Host Family Restaurant, not NT, sign.jpg
North Tonawanda band, John Tussing instructor, photo (c1930).jpg
Frontier Gold Label beer, label (c1930).jpeg
Dump site on island to be proposed, article (Courier-Express, 1962-05-01).jpg
Trophies catalog, Double Kay Sport Shop (c1960).jpg
Oechsner's Dream Island Castle in Williamsville, postcards (c1930).jpg
Hooker Electrochemical Co to buy Durez for 50 Million, article (Buffalo Evening News, 1955-01-14).jpg
Fischers Pharmacy, 301 Payne, matchbook (c1940).jpg
DeLuxe Lanes, Setlik, 712 Oliver, liquor license renewal notice (Tonawanda News, 1949-09-30).jpg
DeLuxe Lanes, 712 Oliver, ad (Tonawanda News, 1971-07-29).jpg
DeLuxe Lanes, 712 Oliver, ad (Tonawanda News, 1968-08-24).jpg
B. H. Neff, Kent Block, trade card (1881).jpg
Avondale Theatre, Thunderclap, ad (Tonawanda News, 1922-01-28.jpg
Large verdict in Derby case, article (Tonawanda News, 1923-04-10).jpg
Expert probe, Derby receiving best care, wives prostrate, articles (Tonawanda News, 1920-11-02).pdf
Blast victim's wife wins casey, article (Tonawanda News, 1924-07-09).jpg
DeGraff Opening of new addition and maternity wing, booklet (1953-03-14).jpg
Includes a history of DeGraff Memorial Hospital
Robinson Street power house undergoing repairs, photo (Dennis Reed Jr 2022-06).jpg
Tonawanda explosion takes toll of 12, article (Niagara Gazette, 1920-11-01).pdf
Power house cases argued, article (Tonawanda News, 1923-05-12).jpg
Lockport man among 11 killed in explosion, article (Lockport Union-Sun Journal, 1920-11-01.pdf
Eleven killed by explosion in Tonawanda power tower, article (Buffalo Courier, 1920-11-01).pdf
Derby dies from burns, article (Tonawanda News, 1920-11-05).jpg
Coroner Wheeler get statement from Derby, article (Tonawanda News, 1920-11-04).jpg
12 now death toll from blast, article, transcription (Tonawanda News, 1920-11-01).pdf
12 NOW DEATH TOLL FROM BLAST Another victim of power house disaster succumbs to injuries; only one person in building at time of explosion still alive Terrible Blast, Followed by Fire, Traps Power Company Employees in Flames and Results in Fatal Burns - Four Instantly Killed (Photo of two power transformers, caption: "The disaster at the Tonawanda Power Company's substation on Robinson street early yesterday morning occurred when men were engaged in connecting up these transformers. They are 2500 Kva, General Electric Transformers.") EIGHT OTHERS DIE AFTER REMOVAL TO DEGRAFF MEMORIAL HOSPITAL - Explosion occurs when new transformers are started up - Lives of well-known men snuffed out - The worst disaster known to have taken place in the Tonawandas occurred shortly before 3 o'clock yesterday morning when an explosion and fire in the high tension cable tower of the Niagara Falls Power Co., adjoining the Tonawanda Power Company's transformer station on Robinson street, snuffed out the lives of four men and burned eight others so badly that they have since died. Of the thirteen men who were in the building when the accident occurred, only one was still alive today. He is Samuel S. Derby, of №222 Niagara street, North Tonawanda. The dead are: Albert S. Allen, 47 years old, of 201 Bryant street, superintendent of the Tonawanda Power Company. Ralph H. Allen, 41 years old, of 202 Falconer street, employed as an operator by the Tonawanda Power Company. James Edward Yates, 52 years old, of 340 Payne avenue, employed as an electrician by the Tonawanda Power Company. James H. Robertson, 39 years old, of 335 Robinson street, employed as an electrician by the Tonawanda Power Company. Andy Anderson, 49 years old, of 404 Seventh street, Niagara Falls, N.Y., employed by the Niagara Falls Power Company as a cable splicer. Charles M. Mabill, 48 years old, of 919 Niagara street, Niagara Falls, N.Y., superintendent of the Niagara Falls Power Company's underground cable. William Ward, 48 years old, of 417 Division street, Newark, employed by the Tonawanda Power Company. Walter Carr, 33 years old, of 824 Seventeenth street, Niagara Falls, N.Y., employed as a lineman by the Niagara Falls Power Company. Albert R. Phelps, 43 years old, of 329 Sommer street, employed as assistant foreman by the Tonawanda Power Company. Edwin D. Doel, 30 years old, of 506 Bryant street, employed as a lineman by the Tonawanda Power Company. Edward Shamrock, 50 years old, of 777 Robinson street, employed as a lineman by the Tonawanda Power Company. Charles Doell, 30 years old, of LaSalle, employed as an electrician by the Niagara Falls Power Company." "Short Circuit Suspected. When asked this morning as to the cause of the explosion, B.F. Lee, general superintendent of the Niagara Falls Power company said: "It is very difficult at this time to find the definite cause of the explosion and fire. The room in which the explosion occurred is completely demolished. However, we are making a thorough investigation to ascertain the exact cause. We are certain that there was a short circuit." The general supposition is that an overheated transformer was responsible for the disaster. Derby Has Fighting Chance. The men who were caught in the room and burned to death were Ralph Allen, Mabill, Carr and Ward. The last of the men to die in the hospital was Doel, who succumbed to his burns at 4 o'clock this morning. Derby, although terribly burned, has a fighting chance for his life." "Dr. C.T. Crance, who is attending Derby, said this afternoon that the patient was holding his own. Arrangements were made to have Dr. Harry Trick of Buffalo, an expert on electrical burns, come here this afternoon for a consultation on Derby's condition. The employees of the two power companies had assembled in the tower to look after the turning in of cables that were to be used in the operation of the Tonawanda Power Company's new transformers, just installed in the new building, erected at the rear of the old station, for the purpose of giving the company an output of 10,000 horsepower in addition to the same amount which it has been securing. The power was shut off at the Niagara Falls Power Company's plant at 1 o'clock this morning, and the splicing and connecting of the cables in the tower. Two new measuring transformers had been installed in the tower to be used in metering the power to be converted to the transformers in the newly constructed part of the Tonawanda Power Company's station. The measuring instruments, like a number of the transformers in use in the company's station, were provided with oil coolers. - Shortly before 3 o'clock the Niagara Falls Power Company was directed to turn on the current for the test on the cable connections. All power employees of Niagara Falls Power Company and the Tonawanda Power Company, those of the latter including all the men employed on the night shift at the plant, assembled in the tower, a brick structure about thirty feet in height and twenty-four square, located at the east side of the front of the company's old building and having an opening about ten feet wide and to a height, into the tower, built to witness the important event. The test was in progress seven minutes when a sizzling noise was detected coming from the transformer meter box. Orders were given to shut off the switch. Dewey started forward to throw the switch lever. As he was extending his hand toward the lever there was a terrific explosion followed instantly by the ignition of the oil which was used for cooling the apparatus. The flames from the explosion all of the men excepting Forthy and Tagel, who were blown through windows in the tower. The flames spread through the tower and into the adjoining room of the power station, setting fire to the woodwork in the brick structure. The gas developed from the burning oil rose up and ran away on the floor of the tower, causing a mass of fire and smoke. The stairway of the latter was enveloped in flames and the exit blocked in the west end of the building. Every window in the tower was blown out and the brick walls were bulged by the explosion. - - **Horrible Scene in Building.** Persons who arrived a few seconds within a few minutes after the explosion said that the scene was too terrible for description. Men ran from the building with their hair and little of their clothes in flames. Dewey and several others showed no signs of life. Others staggered about the reserve of the explosion and heat of ignition with the tanks of the Niagara Falls Power house up and several in the tower, extinguished the flames in their clothing by rolling in the grass and dew of the morning. With the idea that the clothing was thus soaked to the skin and that with ointments in the station? They rushed into the flaming doorway with their clothing afire, their shoes and hats burning and hair and beards white with the intense heat. They were helpless on the floor within in agony from the burns. The screams of the men were terrible. It seems a marvel to those who witnessed it that the men were able to stand up and try to put out the flames which all seemed to start at the same time on their bodies and heads. Many of them were bald. The gas? and burning oil covered the surface of the concrete wall. **Aid Helpless Men.** Shannon, who leaped from the building with his clothes in flames and ran to his home fully half a mile from the power station. When the explosion took place, the men who were not blown through the windows or burned to death in the room, were near enough to the opening in the middle. It was remarked by more than one person present that the bursting out of the pipes and over them and some of them fell directly into the threads […] of the concrete floor. It was thought to be a veritable furnace of […]. What might have saved them had not been for several pipes which burst and looked more only about ten inches in diameter at intervals, but no one who saw them would have been able to say about inches separately. The tank which stood near the focal explosion was in turn, the engine equipment and the burning oil caused a series of small explosions which set some wires a sizzle. The last explosion of the series set fire to some wooden supports of the flames. - - The immediacy of Dr. […] and by the surgical condition of the men admitted at once at this hour. […] is the transformer station. He's been seen to work on the men. The burns were such that areas were a part of the underlying muscles and tissues, destroyed by the flames, and had to be cut away. […] was brought from Buffalo to Edward Memorial Hospital where the men are being taken care of and gives skin to apply on the men's burns. With the exception of Yates, the city physicians, assisted by Dr. J. W. Anderson, gave their time to the care of the men at the transformer station immediately after the explosion occurred, before the arrival of the physicians, and much credit is due to them for the efficient and speedy work they performed. The lights were out, with members of the local branch of the Red Cross having been called to the hospital about three in the afternoon and lent their assistance. Nurses were called from Geneva, Buffalo, and Niagara Falls to help out at the hospital and in the care of bodies by the Morgue. Dr. Kincaid was there for the first twelve hours after the explosion. Dr. […] came to assist him during the night. At times it was thought that Singlenberger's effort would survive and recuperate. They had but little hope for the others. **Rosebrock First To Die.** Rosebrock was the first of the men to succumb. He died at the hospital near his home. He died at 7:30 o'clock yesterday morning. Only minutes before Anderson passed away, then Dewey died, and two hours later, Yates was the fourth man to die at the hospital. His death occurred at 5 o'clock. Allen died at 10 in the forenoon. He was followed at noon, an interval later, by that of Shannon. Robertson died at 4 o'clock in the evening. Last of the seven known physicians had hoped last night, died at 8 o'clock the morning. It was two hours before the firemen arrived at the transformer station before the flames were extinguished. Pumps operated on a reserve of water for the time being. At 10 o'clock, the firemen returned from making a search only the flames and cinders. A wire was shut off from the transformer to electricity given over the telephone. This particular cut caught […] of the transformer. As […] current was shut off, the power was […] - - …[quidity] when the firemen arrived. To have turned a stream into the inferno would have tended to endanger more lives; it might have resulted in the entire destruction of the transmission station. When Chief Dovle[?] encountered Superintendent Allen, the latter said that he could not see but cautioned the firemen about their work. The burning oil made it difficult to get the fire under control even after streams were turned onto the building. The oil ran riot, engulfing its human victims, and was inundated with water before the flames were finally subdued. The damage to the tower and contents is estimated at $20,000. The Tonawanda Power Company estimates the damage to its station at over $5,000. In both cases, the damage is covered by insurance. **Lights Are Restored.** The accident was followed by the crippling of the entire electric system in the Tonawanda. Street and residential service was cut, and the supply for industrial purposes suffered likewise. […] own in middle states of […] had to work by candle or kerosene lamp in the absence of electrical current from the Tonawanda Power Company's electrical service. The lights were restored for the operation of motoring power for business purposes at 3 o'clock last night, and connections were made which provided light for residential and business places shortly after 11 o'clock this morning. It had been stated to many during the afternoon, neither the business or residential services were to be restored, announcements having been given on the morning service that the officers would be closed on account of the probability of no lights being available. It was said today that cables had been cut around the tower, connecting with the Tonawanda Power Company's transmission, providing current for industrial purposes. Early this afternoon, the station was producing its normal amount of power. This condition will remain until the management of the Falls Tower Company has rebuilt the tower and equipped it with the necessary machinery for the resumption of the company's operations. - - **Trolley Lines Affected.** When this power went off, leaving the Tonawandas in darkness, the company operating the local streetcar system also had its current interrupted. The cars were by operating from the Niagara Falls power house, and cars from Niagara Falls were able to proceed as far as the Tonawanda city line, a connection was made there with the Niagara Falls Power Company's power line; the cars on this line are illuminated; only an oil lamp is used. - - **Cause of Explosion Still Unknown** The water used to extinguish took with it large quantities like pastel[?]. An official of the Northside stated today that it appeared that the fire caught some manner to have made its way to the interior of the primary boiler and started a gas that caused the explosion. The experts, however, have no definitive theory yet. All efforts to learn the cause of the explosion have been fruitless so far. Officials and employees are in complete darkness as to any possible cause of the accident. The suppression prevented that even the National Guard would be called to patrol the district to prevent any possible looting in the absence of lights that would enable wrongdoers to work in security. The militia, however, was not needed, and everything remained quiet during the night. […] - - Coroner to Investigate. Coroner Thomas Whalen of Tonawanda has issued a proclamation calling for an inquest into the disaster, to begin at 10 o'clock this morning. The jury is composed of men who have been with the designation of the business and professional men in the city. The jury has remained in the station to return tomorrow and begin an investigation of the affair. A Director of the Tonawanda Power Company announced to the rubber workers that no question of a bonus would be gone into until a true human verdict on the destruction of a man in various departments had been reached. The jury will see all the books of the company and other employees of the company who were killed. Survivors of Dead Albert Elb is survived by a very young daughter named Alice. William F. … survived by a wife and a number of children. William Edward Tonawanda was a member of the Maccabee Tent and the Independent Order of Odd Fellows and was a brother and had a fine insurance. … Ward is survived by a wife, two sons, Richard and John W. Jr., and a daughter, Miss Esther Ward, all of Tonawanda. Richardson is survived by his wife and six grown-up children. He was the son of Herman Richardson of Perry, New York. He was a brother to George Herman and Alton Richardson and Mrs. Lucy Hogan all of North Tonawanda. Mable is survived by a wife and a young son. H. was a member of the American Legion. Survivors of Norman Tonawanda include … and Mrs. Fred Blaine of Third Avenue. … Stanley survived by a wife and children and by his parents. Shannon was the son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Shannon, with whom he lived in Tonawanda. … is survived by his wife, Mrs. … also the mother, Mrs. Ann …, a sister, Mrs. Elmer … of Niagara Falls, and two brothers, William and George … of … Falskin is survived by his wife and two adult children, a son and daughter, … Smith and Margaret. Doel leaves a wife and four children. His father, Samuel Doel, and a brother, Robert Doel, live at №641 Broad Street, Tonawanda. Others survived by a wife, three brothers, Harvey Yap of Fairmont, W. Va., and Turner Weiss and B. S. Yates of Charleston, W. Va., and six sisters, Mrs. Henry Sider of North Tonawanda, Mrs. Melvin Van Meter, Mrs. Newton Harris, Mrs. W. D. Redfer of Summit Point, W. Va., and Mrs. Jessie Reffland … - - **CAUGHT BEHIND FLAME CURTAIN** **Eyewitness Says Transformer Station Was A Roaring Furnace** **RUSHED BACK INTO FIRE** Victims of Explosion Appeared to be Deranged by Ordeal Through which They Passed - Thought only of Welfare of Fellow Workers. Albert Boyer, a member of the Board of Health and the firm of Shook and Bayer, proprietors of the Payne Avenue junction waiting room; Leo Goodman of Miller street, employed at the junction as a clerk, and Chester Merz of Payne avenue were first to reach the Tonawanda Power Company's plant following the explosion early Sunday morning. They related today at first hand an account of conditions found on their arrival. The three men left the waiting room after it was closed Sunday morning, following the departure of the last trolley cars, for a spin on Marz's motorcycle, to which is attached a sidecar. One of the party mentioned it would be an ideal night for some real excitement. The motorcycle was speeding down Niagara street after turning off Schenck street, when great tongues of flame were seen mounting above the embankment of the high speed line. All realized there was a fire nearby and Marz speeded his machine to a nearby firebox, where an alarm was sounded. In the stillness of the night, cries of help were heard coming from the transformer station. Samual Derby was met at the door of the transformer station who informed Boyer and Marz of what was taking place. They speeded back to the Payne Avenue junction, where every doctor and ambulance which it was possible to reach was summoned by telephone. Goodman remained with Derby Hall found the room, containing the dead and injured men, a roaring furnace. He said Derby went back into the place to render assistance to fellow… Employees trapped by the flames suffered terrible burns from which some were suffering. Superintendent Albert S. Allen and Ralph Allen, according to Goodman, made their way out of the flame-swept section of the building, but the latter, aging and deranged from the ordeal through which he had passed, returned to warn others, but before he could be prevented, met his death. Goodman said the clothing worn by both Sybil and Ralph Allen were so badly burned that he was able to pull the burning coats from their backs, as well as shirts and underclothing with ease. Looking into the flame-swept room, Goodman was able to see the dead and dying men lying about the floor, unable to provide any assistance, for to enter the place at that time would have resulted in fatal burns. Goodman praised the effort and concern of Albert and Ralph Allen, as well as August Shamrock, who also made his way out of the roaring furnace. They were all trying to get assistance to fellow employees trapped amid the flames. They sacrificed their own safety, caring for themselves only after attending to others' injuries. Shamrock, overwhelmed at the door leading to the burning building, said "For God's sake don't bother about me, but do something to help those poor devils who are in there burning up!" Later, Shamrock was pulled from the building, but by that point, his condition had deteriorated significantly. Around this time, Motorcycle Patrolman Power and Engineer Oliver from the transformer station and the fire department arrived on the scene, making desperate attempts to reach those trapped. The scene was described as horrific. As onlookers drew near, the agonized cries of trapped men, surrounded by flames behind a virtual wall of fire, could be heard. Many were pleading, interspersed with their cries for help. (Note: The transcription may not be entirely accurate due to some sections of the image being blurry or cut off.) - - **GREAT DISPLAY OF FORTITUDE** **Supt. Allen Directs Rescuers Although Fatally Burned** **FIRST THOUGHT OF HIS MEN** With Eyesight Gone and Clothes Burned from His Body, He Declines to Leave Power House until Rescue Work is Carried Well Forward. The story of the presence of mind and courage displayed by Superintendent Albert S. Allen at the power house fire early yesterday morning was graphically described by eyewitnesses, members of the fire department, and others, who arrived on the scene shortly after the alarm was raised. With his sight gone and most of the clothes burned from his body, Mr. Allen directed the work of the rescuers until taken to the hospital. Mr. Allen's first consideration was for his fellow-workers, the men who were in the eastern section of the building where the fire was raging most fiercely, and who were either felled or rendered unconscious by the explosion. Those who were first to arrive on the scene found Mr. Allen outside the building with his clothes on fire. The smoldering garments were immediately torn from his body. Notwithstanding this condition, however, the gallant official would not leave the power station until the work of rescue was carried well forward. Mr. Allen had evidently not been in the direct line of the explosion, for he was not as badly burned as… *Continued on Page Three* - - - - PAGE THREE - - - Here's the transcription of the provided image: - - **BLAST VICTIMS' FUNERALS HERE** *(Continued from Page One)* Sawyer's Creek cemetery. Peniston will be buried at Elmwan. Both men were members of St. Matthew's church. The other double funeral will be that of Albert S. Allen and Ralph H. Allen, brothers, services for whom will be conducted at the home of their mother, Mrs. Ann Allen, at No. [part missing] street at 8 o'clock tomorrow night. The services will be conducted by Rev. Frederick Miller, [part missing] of the First M. E. church, and will be in charge of Sutherland Lodge, [part missing] A. M., of which both were members. The bodies will be taken to Moravia, N. Y., on the following morning for burial. The funeral of James Robertson will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock at the late residence. No. [part missing] Robinson street. The services will be conducted by Rev. Hugo Kuepper of the Redeemer Lutheran church. Burial will be at Elmwan. The funeral of William Ward will be held tomorrow afternoon at 3:47 o'clock at his late home, №417 Division street. Rev. Charles Bloom of the Payne Avenue Church of Christ will conduct the service and burial will be in the Sweeney cemetery. The funeral of Edward Shimrock will be held Wednesday morning at 9:30 o'clock at the home of his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Frank J. Shamrock of №777 East Robinson street, and half an hour later at the Ascension church on Robinson street, Rev. J. F. Kelly officiating. Burial will be at Mt. Olivet. The funeral of Charles [part missing] of [part missing] will be held at Oreville, Ohio, [part missing] afternoon. The services will be conducted at the home of his father [part missing] Thurs to [part missing] o'clock. The body will be shipped to [part missing] from Block & [part missing] tomorrow morning. [The rest is cut off and not visible.] --- PAGE FOUR--- (Note: The transcription is incomplete due to the blurry and cut-off sections of the image.)d
12 killed in explosion of power station, article (Buffalo News, 1920-11-01).pdf
Tonawanda News, full paper (1896-06-01).pdf
After this date, the microfilm record of the paper is silent until November 1st, and the (remote) lighting of the "New Niagara Furnace" at the Tonawanda Iron Works by President-Elect William McKinley.
Mr. Dent and Durez origin, article (Tonawanda News, 1972-06-22).pdf
Durez Plastics, catalog excerpts (Modern Plastics Handbook, 1948).jpg
NTHS women's basketball team, team photo with names (1923).jpg
Moulton, Hamilton, Doty, Peters, Rooney, Wherry. An Elizabeth Wherry played guard for NTHS in January 1922, was a Miss Twin Cities entrant with 40K votes in 1923, and in a YWCA basketball game in 1930. Obits show an Elizabeth Russel Wherry (9-11-1952) and Elizabeth Wherry (5-1-1978).
Trolley routes in North Tonawanda (Trolley Days in the Tonawandas, Robert H Lloyd, 1969).jpg
Niagara Falls Power Co. General Map of Transmission Lines, map (c1900).jpg
VIDEO: Paper Slitter Demonstration - Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum.mov
VIDEO: A video tour of an Artizan "Style D" Band Organ.mov
This working organ at the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum of North Tonawanda, N.Y. is the largest of the Artizan line of military band organs. This video tour shows the mechanics of the back, the painted facade of the front as five songs play on the organ, as well as views of the Artizan Factories, Inc. grounds in 1926 and 2017. Built in 1925, the organ was first installed in a roller skating rink in Ohio and last used at the State Fair of Texas. It uses a compressed air system to operate its 203 organ pipes, two drums, orchestra bells, and cymbal.
VIDEO: Wurlitzer Music Roll Department Exhibit - Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum.mov
Promotion work of a great industry - Wurlitzer advertising department, illustrated article (Presto-Times, 1926-07-31).JPG
Trade journal article describing how the Cincinnati-based advertising department drives demand for Wurlitzer products.
Would repoen Long Bridge, article (1916-04-03).pdf
Would light sharp curve, Bush's bridge, Niagara Falls Boulevard, article (Tonawanda News, 1916-11-06).jpg
Wood and Brooks Bros., Ivory Keys, Ontario Street, Tonawanda, postcard (c.1890).jpg
Winfield Marina, photo (George Hunter c1975).jpeg
Widow victor in urban renewal battle, 93 South Niagara Street, Tonawanda, Northeast Cleaners and Launderers, article (Tonawanda News, 1971-05-06).jpg
Wagenscheutz Hardware, back, ink and wash (2017).jpg
Twin City Tire Shop, 31 Webster, ad (Tonawanda News, 1914-05-20).jpg
Twin Cities Rifle Club, Ward Olver 1st place, colorized photo (1936-05-15, Ward Bray).jpg
Tonawanda Distribution Corporations, ad (c1960).jpg
Tonawanda Boiler and Engine Works, Armitage-Herschell, map detail (1886).jpg
The Villa, 682 Falls Blvd, postcard (1924-08).jpg
Sweeney Estate article, local industry ads (1928-09-07).jpg
Rainbow Roller Rink, ad (Tonawanda News, 1949-12-02).png
Princess Suzanne, souvenir photo for Scenic Family Theatre and related notices (c.1913).JPG
A vaudeville curiosity, this small wire-walker is purported to hail from Hungary and tours (at least) upstate New York in the early 1900s. Appears in papers as early as 1909, described as "bright and interesting," "The Royal Doll Lady," "The Tiniest Star in Vaudeville," "highly educated and cultured," an "actress," "perfectly formed," "32 inches tall" and "34 pounds." In 1911 Billboard calls her the "Human Atom," touting "character change, singing and tight wire novelty act" with a "beautiful wardrobe" who was just finishing a tour of the "Pacific Coast." A 1930 Billboard item under "Sparks Circus" notes that she went in a big seaplane at Pensacola. By 1938 the Forest Parkway Leader-Observer lists her in a little person program as "the butterfly dancer."
Niagara Drive-In, ad (Tonawanda News, 1949-07-07).png
McCarthy is freed, Red Pump, article (Buffalo News, 1932-04-01).jpg
Ives Ice and Coal Co., metal calendar holder (c.1920).jpg
International Paper Company 50th anniversary, article (Tonawanda News, 1948-06-14).jpg
Gratwick Hose No. 6, group photo, cabinet card, Wittkowsky (c1925).jpg
Col. Lindbergh, front page (Tonawanda News, 1927-06-11).jpg
Camporee, Nine Mile Island (Amherst, Pendleton), neckerchief slide (1963).jpeg
Blue house bunch and their outings, article (Try to Remember, Tonawanda News, 1977-11-12).jpg
Avondale ad, logotype (Tonawanda News, 1927-06-11).JPG
Auto-Wheel Coaster, salesman sample (John Rastall, 2021).jpeg
Who Did It?, article, some illegible (Buffalo Express, 1895-10-08).PDF
Was It a Plot?, article (Niagara Falls Gazette, 1895-10-09).pdf
Was He Warned?, article (Buffalo Express, 1895-10-09).PDF
Vicious Melee, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-07, 6th edition).pdf
Two Killed, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-07, 7th edition).pdf
Substantially the same account, background added: "The original contention resulting in last night's riot dates back to the formation of a brokers' office by William Godard and Ira M. Rose, both of this village. P. W. Scribner & Co....the boatmen say, declined to apply for boats through the brokers' office and signified his intention of taking care of his shipping independently. "This served to create considerable ill feeling between Scribner and the boatmen and it appears that numerous schemes were devised to hamper Scribner In obtaining boats to carry his lumber. Nearly all of the boatmen signed contracts with Godard and Rose of the brokers' office." "Scribner, for some reason, would not go into the deal and he did not hesitate to say so. He preferred to act Independently, even If obliged to pay a rate in excess of $2 to New York and $1.50 to Albany, the rate paid through the broker's office." "Godard says he went to Scribner on Friday and tried to effect a conciliation, but according to his story Scribner was obstinate and refused to have anything to do with Godard or anyone connected with the brokers' office. The canal men say that Scribner's obstinacy inspired them with desperation and last night while brooding over the affair they congregated and went to his docks, little thinking that It would result In the murder of one man. possibly two. Now that they have done their worst they feel penitent. Some of the canal men try to find consolation by saying that Scribner is Indirectly to blame for the whole affair. The canal men have no union here." Charles unconscious from time of injury, never leaves the deck.
Try to Remember, Bork hotel photo, Phillips murders, article (Tonwanda News, 1976-07-31).pdf
Trial Underway, article (Buffalo News, 1896-03-25).pdf
To the Point, condemnatory resolution, article (Tonawanda News, 1895-10-08ish).pdf
Tonawanda Tragedy, article (Buffalo Courier 1895-10-09).pdf
Tonawanda's Trouble, article (Buffalo News, 1884-05-30).PDF
Serious Dead-Lock In the Canal Traffic. The Organization of Boatmen Against Shippers-Both Sides of the Case. (P. W. Scribner Weighs in) Depicts the stagnated upper dock, 130 idle ships, restless men. Notes resentment at county officials being called in to keep the peace despite Tonawandas' remarkable record in that area. A. Weston gives a detailed account of the matter, saying there are four or five firms involved in lumber forwarding, and showing how the boat captains get squeezed out and compelled to pay spurious "scalpage" fees, and to hire favored work gangs, or go without. "In consequence of this state of things, the boatmen in February last entered into an organization called the Erie Boatmen's Transportation company." "P. W. Scribner, who is largely engaged in the shipping business, was referred to for a statement of the other side of the case. He said: "It amounts to this that the Erie Boatmen's Transportation company is endeavoring to boycott our business. We are and always have been willing to treat the boatmen fairly and squarely, but we ask to be allowed to conduct our business in the way we think best. We have a large number of boats engaged for loading and we prefer to use those boats in preference to others that may be thrust upon us. This organisation is simply an association formed for the purpose of dictating what shall be the price of freights on the canal." Scribner goes on to describe how the association has been putting it out that they will bring the lumber concerns to heel, and that they will have an unfair advantage in fixing rates. He then addresses the threat of violence: "There were symptoms of disturbance before the sherif came here, but since then there has been greater quiet. Before that they went on my docks and endeavored to drive men away from my employ and in some cases threats were used. It was acts of that sort that induced me to have the sheriffs here so that we might have country protection."
Told by Quirk (Buffalo Courier, 1896-04-27).pdf
To a living tomb, article (Buffalo Courier, 1896-04-11).pdf
The Tragedy at Tonawanda, photo article, 3311a (2922) (Buffalo Express, 1895-10-20).PDF
The Tragedy, article (Tonawanda News, 1895-10-08).pdf
The Story of the Phillips Murders as Told by Jack Quirk, article (Tonwanda News, 1896-04-27).pdf
The Jurors, article (Tonwanda News, 1896-03-24).pdf
Story of the Crime, article (Niagara Falls Gazette, 1895-10-08).pdf
Still A-Rowing, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-29).pdf
State parole board to release Hyde, article (Tonawanda News, 1912-12-16).jpg
Sentenced, article (Tonwanda News, 1896-04-10).pdf
P. W. Scribner, ad (Commerce, Manufactures and Resources of Buffalo and Environs, 1880).jpg
Pleads guilty, article (Buffalo News, 1896-04-07).pdf
Phillips' Slayer, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-12).pdf
Perew will fight, article excerpt (Buffalo News, 1896-04-07).jpg
One more - Slattery arrested, article (Tonawanda News, 1895-10-08ish).pdf
Murdered by a mob, article (Elmira Dailyy Telegram, 1895-10-13).pdf
Mrs. Lorenzo Phillips in town for trial, guest of Mrs. M.J. Wattengal, notice (Buffalo Courier, 1896-03-19).jpg
Miss Phillips's Tale, article (Buffalo News, 1896-03-25).pdf
Looks bad for Hyde, article (Buffalo Courier 1896-03-28).pdf
Jury came in, article (Buffalo News, 1896-04-01).jpg
Jury's Report, article (Tonawanda News, 1895-10ish, 0361).pdf
Jurors Selected, backstory, article (Rome Sentinel, 1896-03).pdf
It wouldnt do, Mr Keneflek declines to release riot witnesses, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-24).pdf
Is It Hyde or Jekyll?, article, illustrated (Buffalo Courier 1896-03-31).pdf
Inquest resumed, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-08).pdf
Indictments, article (Tonawanda News, 1895-10-10ish).pdf
Hyde in Court, illustration from article (Buffalo News, 1896-03-19).pdf
Hyde in Court, article (Buffalo News, 1896-03-19).pdf
Horrible Work of a Mob, article, partial transcription (Tonawanda News, 1895-10-07).pdf
Captain Phillips and His Son Charles Brutally Murdered. Mob of Frenzied Men Shed Blood in Tonawanda After the Midnight Hour -Pistols and Stones Freely Used in the Murderous Work - Flora Phillips Had One of the Most Terrible Experiences that Ever Fell to the Lot of a Young Girl. Boats John Graff and May. Other boatmen had tried to convince Phillips to wait his turn, "But entreaties had no effect...He said that his family were in need of the money and that his boats must work to get it for them." Mutterings all day of impending violence. Men assembled between 12:30 and 1. Some called Captain names. Boats cut first? Someone fired a shot. Then more followed, Captain slain, son hit with a rock. Tonawanda police arrive, men scatter. Officers Kumro and Graff (?) sent for medical assistance. Coronor Helwig in Martinsville. The boats discovered "drifted against the docks right at the swing bridge." 4:30 a.m. canal barns raided and suspicious men arrested. By 6:30 a.m. the Tonawanda "coop" (jail) was full, and still arrests were being made. Some pled innocence but most kept their mouths shut and refused to answer questions. Many accounts circulating: Phillips not only loaded out of turn, but undercut price of boatmen's association. Some disputed his claim that he was poor by pointing out "he owns the two boats, the May and John Graff, and also a large farm and other property near Clyde in the central part of the State. The story is contradicted. Men who know Phillips say his property was encumbered, and it was necessary for him to have money to make an immediate payment to save his property from the sheriff. " Co. Helwig to summon jurors and hold an inquest today. "It is said by a boatmen that a good-sized delegation of Buffalo men came here yesterday with the sole purpose of causing an insurrection, and that this desire was inflamed by a free use of intoxicants. Bu t like all the other stories floating about, this is denied by some, it is said that the boatmen did not go to the Scribner yards to do murder, but they went there to quietly talk over the matter with Captain Phillips and get him to join them and live up to the agreements entered into by his fellows. It is also said by some of the boatmen that no trouble would have resulted if a shot had not been fired from the boat at them. This angered them and brought about the conflict." 18 arrests by 9 a.m., "Nicholas Wendell, Edward Dunn, Jame S. Riley, Edward Munger, George Hyde, Joseph Dickerson, Frederick Oderkirk, Ervin Collins, Robert Rhinehart, John Lasher, John Stevens, Michael Cohe, Abraham Wheeler, Edward Leonard, Archibald Dow, Bonnie Warren, Edward Lawrence. To be arraigned on charge for murder. U.S. Marshall Smearing witnessed all from the bow of Phillips's boat when the latter was struck. Phillips and son standing at stern. Previous two nights of bright moonlight now overtaken by heavy gloom in which all were indistinct. Smearing said he heard chains, and then saw a revolver covering him. Estimates 40-60 men, intending ill. Leader of medium build, had them men under control and a plan at work. Boats cut adrift, then a shot in Phillips head and heart. "Following the shots came a volley of stones, clubs and missiles of-every description. The son of the Captain received a crushing blow in the back of the head just as he was turning to reach his dead father and fell to the deck with a deep moan. This morning the deck was covered with the missiles and the woodwork, splintered and dented, showed with what murderous force the volley had been hurled by the mob. The boat was less than five feet from the shore when this occurred. The mob instantly scattered in every direction, evidently satisfied that they had accomplished their purpose. Marshal Smearing is positive that there were only two shots fired." Did not intervene because the odds were against him, and more bloodshed would have resulted. Daughter asleep in cabin of the other boat. Phillips's revolver chambers all full, coroner has the gun. "Lying on a lounge in Martin Wattengel's house on Webster street, with her head bandaged and Mrs. Wattengel soothing her, this morning was Flora Phillip, the daughter of the murdered captain. The girl is but 20 years of age, and she worked aboard her father's boats, doing the cooking and other household duties. She had passed a terrible night, and the poor child shuddered when she thought of her father lying dead in the undertaking rooms, within half a block of her. TH E NEW S asked her if she felt well enough to talk about the terrible affair and she answered in the affirmative. In reply to questions she said: "My home is at Constantia, N. Y. At that place the entire family, father, mother, three brothers and one sister beside myself, live during the winter. In the summer my mother and a sister 15 years of age and two brothers, aged 10 and 5 years respectively stay, while my father, my oldest brother and myself live aboard the boats. Yesterday there was no trouble about the boats. No men came there and tried to induce my father to leave. Early in the evening I went to bed, the men remaining up. I was soon in a sound sleep, from which I was rudely awakened by the falling of stones on top of the cabin. Hardly had I got my eyes open before a big piece of rock struck the cabin windows demolishing them and scattering the glass all about me. I was terrified at that, but when my brother dashed down the stairs a moment later with blood streaming from his head, followed by a large number of pieces of rock, I fled into the inner cabin for safety. The fusilade was kept u p for several minutes and when it stopped I ascertained that we were afloat on the river. No tug came to our assistance and I momentarily expected to be drowned, when I felt the boat come to stop. I looked out of the cabin and thanked God when I saw that the lumber on the boat had caught on the bridge and were saved. Five minutes afterward the police came aboard the boat, and made it fast to the pier; where we remained until nine o'clock this 'morning. Then the boats were towed ...and I was brought here." The girl is completely prostrated and lies in a serious condition. "She did not know that her father was dead, until she was taken to Mr. Wattengel's." Mother coming for her today. - "Officers Kumro and Duffy who alone were at the yards during the excitement had a thrilling experience. They were surrounded by at least 150 frenzied men, all of whom were clamoring for blood." "So they bided their time, carefully looking over the men, and taking their names; the result of this being that it was not a hard matter to locate them when they dispersed and arrest them." Officers soothe crowd who wants to lynch Smearing. - T H E NEWS interviewed James Scribner of the Scribner Lumber Company this morning, who seemed deeply affected by the terrible murder that had taken place at his lumber yard. He said that he had known Captain Phillips for fifteen years past and that he had every reason to respect and honor him as a man. He was originally a farmer and was the owner of a farm in the central part of the state at Constantia where he lived when the canal season was over. He had been taking loads from the Scribner Lumber company during all this period and they considered him an excellent boatman and reliable man. Phillips, Scribner said, had considered the matter of joining the Canal Boatmen's Union, but when he found that 150 boats were tied up here waiting the load-in-turn arrangement he felt that he could not subject himself to the conditions imposed. He had a $300 mortgage on his farm coming due next month and knew that if he simply took his turn he would not get underway until late in the season if at all. Loading at once meant $300 for him and in time to take care of his mortgage. He would not underbid the other boatmen but he would take the load offered him and get out at once." The Marshal had been provided by Scribner, came from Buffalo. (He claims at one point at least six revolvers were pointed at him). - THE NEWS visits the men in jail. When informed the son is dead too, "the face of the spokesman blanched." - Charles dies about 12:45 p.m. next day. Both stored in "the undertaking rooms of Wattengel & Reed in the Real Estate Exchange in North Tonawanda." As of 3 p.m. Flora, who seemed to have rallied when informed he could live, had not been told of his death. The only non-family on the boats were drivers John Murphy and Steve Showers, according to Flora. DA insists Tonawanda prisoners be taken to Buffalo, with the assistance of entire T police force.
Her Sad Story (Buffalo News, 1896-03-26).pdf
Her Sad Story (Buffalo News, 1896-03-25).pdf
Heard the Shots - But Who Saw the Slayer of Captain Phillips? (Buffalo Courier 1896-03-26).pdf
Feeling Is Bitter, article (Buffalo Courier, 1895-10-29).pdf
Evidence being submitted, article (Tonawanda News, 1896-03-25).pdf
Ended in Murder (Buffalo Courier, 1895-10-08).pdf
Double murder on a canal boat, article (New York Herald 1895-10-08).pdf
Did They Plan to Kill Him?, article, Goddard testimony, contract language (Buffalo News, 1895-10-09).pdf
Deliberate murder, article (Buffalo Courier, 1895-10-10).pdf
Captain Phillips's slayer, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-12).jpg
Captain Hyde's Fate, article, illustrations (Buffalo Courier 1896-04-01).pdf
Capt. Hyde on Trial, article (Buffalo Express, 1896-03-20).PDF
Canalboat murderers to be tried, article (NY Daily Tribune, 1896-03-16).jpg
Buffalo Boatmen Roped In, article (Buffalo News, 1895-10-10).pdf
Big Riot, article (Buffalo Express, 1895-10-07).PDF
Captain loading out of turn at Scriber's dock. 12:30 a.m. 150 boatmen assembled. Took two bullets, sun clubbed, boats cut adrift. Phillips's boats the John Graft and the May. Phillips "shot in the head and the body as he stood upon his boat." "Young Phillips struck on the head with a club." Had brought his boats from Buffalo two days ago. Was suspected he would load and return to Buffalo before morning. Tonawanda boatmen claim Phillips fired at them first, five shots fired in all. The lines of the two boats were cut. Police arrive at dock to find boats and men gone. The boats were overtaken at Tonawanda Island, just below the swing bridge. NT police had been notified by telephone to watch for the boats, and were soon upon their decks. Captain Phillips stretched out on deck, dead. Physicians summoned, conclude son will succumb to his injuries. No mention of Flora.
Behind bars, article (Tonawanda News, 1895-10-08ish).pdf
Rhineheart, owner of boats Hoff and Riley, arrested. Will be taken to Buffalo. Police complain tipsters repudiate. Goddard has "no statement" but goes onto say the newspapers have treated him harshly, that when facts come out they will realize their wrong, he had been a businessman for years and those who know him know his innocence,. NEWS crows that their coverage is receiving compliments and that the AP is using it (BN "only made liberal use"). Rose will give a statement tomorrow. An article on the same page says Citizens of the Tonawandas will hold a general meeting to discuss the tragedy.
At Tonawanda, Scribner pleads with governor for protection, article (Jamestown Journal, 1893-06-22).jpg
Two years before the double murder, P. W. Scribner of the Eastern Lumber Company sends a telegram to Governor Flower on behalf of the area lumber dealers. He complains that neither the sherifs nor village authorities will provide protection for them to unload vessels on their docks in Tonawanda. North Tonawanda / Niagara County is currently "protected by military," so they have been "obliged" to transfer vessels to that county to unload. He asks for military protection. Flower telegrams back that the call is the Erie County Sherif's to make, not his, and lists the powers the sherif has (posse, National Guard, other counties). The governor also telegrams the sherif and says he expects him to do his duty, and that "peace and good order must be maintained at any cost."
At Tonawanda, article (Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, 1895-10-08).pdf
Says Lorenzo Phillips was captain of "Jennie Graft," Charles of "May." Says he fired a shot over his head, and was immediately fired on. Drifting boats intercepted by a tug at Little Island. Boatmen "like a pack of maddened wolves." Daughter knocked down. Son "beaten almost to a jelly." Blotches of blood where the son had crawled to the cabin.
Anniversary of the riot, article (Buffalo Courier, 1896-10-08).pdf
An Agreement, lumber labor trouble, article (Buffalo News, 1893-06-26).pdf
The National Guard has been stationed at the bridge to the Little Island. Via the Citizens Committee of Tonawanda, unionized lumber shovers ask that John E. Oelkers (ex-village president) be appointed "chief stevedore" instead of President Robinson of the Lumbermen's Association. Companies from the National Guard are positioned at the swing bridge onto Little (Tonawanda) Island. "There are new soldiers guarding the lumber docks, the lumber piles and the bridge that connects North Tonawanda with the Little Island, today. Companies A, B, 0 and F, of the 65th Regiment have left the village and their places have been filled by Companies C, O, and I of the same regiment. The change took place late yesterday afternoon. The troops which so splendidly guarded the Island last week were glad to get back home. They did their work in a manner that reflected the greatest credit upon them...'Your men have worked splendidly,' said Mr. T. S. Fassett to Gen. Doyle." "The four new companies arrived shortly after 1 o'clock. They marched from the train to Little Island where the guards were changed in front of Smith, Fassett & Co,'s office. The troops in Companies A, B, D and F had their things all packed up and ready to break camp as soon as the new men arrived and when the second battalion reached Camp Haunted the first marched to the train. "Crowds of Tonawanda people, were prsent to see them depart and as the car pulled out they loudly cheered them."
A Midnight Secret Session! article, partial transcription (Tonawanda News, 1895-10-09ish).pdf
(Not sure of the date of this article, day or two after first inquest). Only A Half Hour Before the Murders Are Committed the Boatmen Meet in Secret Session in Their Hall in the Post Office Buildings Beginning to look like a conspiracy. Prominent local businessman and "one of the officials of the Boatmen's Union" William Goddard likely to be arrested. Evidence against "other prominent residents of the Twin Cities" also being mulled. From the article: "The Secret Meeting. The most startling piece of evidence that is yet become thoroughly established was given to the public for the first time in THE NEWS. The canal men and at least one of the officers were in secret session in the Post-office block Sunday night at midnght, only a half hour before the murders were committed. They left the hall at midnight and by twos and threes gathered quietly at the Scribner docks where the boats of Capt. Phillips were lying. The murders that followed can be traced directly to the deliberations of that secret meeting." Goddard spotted leaving the hall. He had maintained he knew nothing about the event until his wife told him the next morning, even though he was in the company of Reech until 1 a.m., and had been told of the attacks. The article also reveals an earlier meeting of the boatmen: "This was not the only meeting that was held, however. It is said that there was a secret meeting held on Thursday night last after Phillips landed in Tonawanda with his boats. The meeting was fully attended by the leading canal boatmen interested in maintaining the association of canal men with its strict rules. This meeting was called for the express purpose of arranging some plan to get Capt. Phillips out of Tonawanda. It was decided, it is said, to bribe him." If that didn't work, threaten him. It was crucial that he not load, as it could "crush their association agreement." DA has proof that on Friday Phillips was offered $200 to cut his lines and walk away. According to this account, the captain listened patiently but firmly refused. The men returned. The captain still refused. At this point in the article, the inquest testimony is given again, beginning with Deputy Smearing. Different details / format than appears in the Buffalo News article: "Where were you at the time when this started? I was standing on the boats. And what time was this? I think was between 11 and 12 o'clock. Where did you first see the gang of men? I saw some people come up the tow-path. You saw them talking together ? Yes sir. Where were the shots fired at? Towards the boat. Did you see the captain? Yes sir. Was there a pistol pointed at you? Yes sir. Was there a pistol pointed at Mr. Phillips? Yes sir. How far away from him was the man who pointed the pistol at this man Phillips? About three feet. Did you see the man? Yes sir. How was he dressed? He had on ordinary clothes and a slouch hat on his head. After the pistol was put in your face, what did you say ? I did not say anything. Did you hear auy remarks? Yes sir, but I could not tell you the exact words; the only person that I knew was Philip Perew who came up to me and said that I had better look out for this was a determined crowd. What did you do? I told him to keep away or he might get hurt. Wheree did he stand on? On a lumber pile. What else did you see? And what can you tell us about them? I saw two men talking together but did not understand what they were talking about. How far apart were those two men? About two feet. What happened next? The boats were cut loose and drifted down the river. What did you find? I found Mr. Phillips lying on the boat and dead. How was he lying? He was lying with his face on the boards and back up. Was he dead? So the doctors said. What did you do next? I went into the cabin. What did you find? I found two men, the daughter and the boy. Did you see that the boy's head was battered? Yes sir, he was bleeding. How many men were there that came down onto the dock? I should judge about 50 or more. Do you kuow any by sight? I know one by sight. Have you met him since that time? No sir. Did you recognize any of the other men there? No sir. From the time that you were on the boat did you see any person there? Yes sir. Who was he? I haven't any idea who he was. What did the captain say when he saw the crew coming? He pulled off his coat and said, "My life is my own and I shall protect my property." Murphy and Shover testify much the same (latter extra detail about boy trying to get up and being beaten again). William Goddard's testimony, the NEWS says, shows a "surprising lack of memory." Says he does not think the boatmen's association has any officers, does not know who pays their hall rent. Association in existence for five weeks. No meetings. Contracts made by "Root the lawyer and myself." He does admit to trying to persuade Phillips to load his boats in turn, but clais he thought no violence would come. Was at Rech's saloon Sunday night. Knows Perew: "He was in company with me in the merry-go-round business." Ira M. Rose gave testimony as printed in the previous day's NEWS. Deposition of Flora Phillips "Flora Phillips was not able to be put upon the witness stand, so her starment was read. It was in the main as printed in THE NEWS on Monday. The girl told of her brother coming down into the cabin wounded and bleeding; how she dressed his wounds and cared for him unil she was prostrated and removed from the boat to Mr. Wattengels', and how the cabins of the boat were riddled with stones and pieces of boards. She told how her father had been approached by boatmen and requested to leave Tonawanda without taking a load from Scribner's, and said that neither her brother or her father carried revolvers, and that they had committed no act that called for their murder." "Today's Proceedings The inquest was resumed this morning at 11 o'clock. Officers Duffy and Kumro gave much more sensational testimony than on the first inquest. The following are the examinations in full. Officer Duffy was examined first." Duffy says he was assigned to protect the boats, was there from 7 p.m. to 1 a.m. When the gang arrived he was standing on "the boat," and the May was closest to the dock. He tried to talk to the men to slow them down but they paid no mind. Some standing on a pile of lumber called to others on the towpath to come on down and not be "coward." Duffy heard the men say to "Kill the -----". Heard two shots. Saw only the marshal, the captain, the captain's son, and Philip Perew on the boat. Also saw Wheeler and Riley. Then the gang spread in all directions except Perew and Smearing. Duffy went in search of a doctor. When he returns he finds captain on the May; in cabin, Flora nursing Charles. According to Officer Kumro's testimony, he does not arrive until about 12:50 a.m. IDs Wheeler, Perew, Munger and Lowe. Quotes Phillips "My life is my own, and if any man touches these lines he will get shot." Sees Smearing talking with Perew. Tries to shove the men back, but they say "Let's kill the Dutch -----." 12 men jumped abpard. Saw by flash that the man who shot Phillips was about four feet away from him. The men cut all the lines. Kumro follows the boats. At the swingbridge he finds on the boat "Perew, the Marshal, [Doctor] Edmonds, the Captain and the girl. This was when the boat was tied up at the swing bridge." "What else did you see being done to the boy? They had been kicking the boy with their feet." "Could you tell the man that did the shooting? No sir, I could not tell, because it was too dark, while the moon was in the opposite direction of the boat, and a high lumber pile between the two, throwing a shadow on the boat." Cause of son's death at this inquest given as "resulting from the blow of a pistol and some blunt instrument." Why He Joined the Union "Citizens generally have little idea of the methods that have been used to induce or compel some of the boatmen to join the union. As one of them stated to Mr. F. A. McCoy only two weeks ago,"he did not want to join the Union, but he knew that if he did not that his property would be in hourly danger. Either his boats would burned or his horses and mules would be poisoned. If he went into the Union he knew his "turn" would not come the balance of the season, but he did not dare refuse." Is this a civilized community, or is it ruled by an organized mob of cutthroats? If a Mafia is ruling matters with such a high hand it is time for the people of the Twin Cities to arouse at once and crush it out." District Attorney Penney laments the "surprising reluctance" of the citizenry to come forth with evidence. Findings of the inquest, and names of suspect related. A Sad Procession "At 7 o'clock this morning the bodies of Captain Phillips and his son were started for Constantia. Mrs. Phillips, her brother Mr. Reynolds, and her daughter Flora accompanied the remains. Mr. and Mrs. Watteugel and a few other sympathizing friends accompanied the remains as far as Buffalo. Before departing Mrs. Phillips with tears in her eyes thanked Mrs. Wattengel for her kindness to her sick child, and the mother's heart went out in full to the kind Tonawanda mother who let her light and love buoy up a poor stricken child in affliction and distress. Others besides Mrs. Phillips accorded praise to Mrs. Wattengel for her splendid exhibition of motherhood. Newspaper opinions: Times calls policeman of Tonawanda "a weak set" and calls for their prosecution in their failure to protect Phillips. Express calls it more of a lynching, in the barbaric style of the South.
All Brutes, article, partial transcription (Buffalo News, 1895-10-08, 5th edition).pdf
Two Policemen and a Deputy Stood by Helpless While the Cowards Ran Riot. Arrested now number 16: Nick Waudle, Ed. Dunn, James Reilly, Ed. Mulligan, George Hyde, Bonnie Warren, Joseph Dixon, Fred Oderkirk, John Lasher, John Stevens, Michael Kohn, Abe Wheeler, James Dixon, Art Lauw, Philip Perew and Ed. Lawrence. Autopsy of Phillips showed a single bullet wound, left breast, 2: to left of nipple. Phillips a slight man of 5'6", 45, 150 pounds. 38 caliber bullet recovered. Deputy Marshal George A. Smearing inquest testimony a "striking confession of helplessness, in fact, absolute uselessness." Testimony of Deputy Marshal George A. Smearing (Coronor's Inquest) "I arrived here Friday afternoon and staid on the boats that night. I had been told about the association of boat owners in Tonawanda and understood that they did not take freight except under certain conditions and rules. According to stories that came to my ears Phillips came here and got a load ahead of men who had been waiting five or six weeks and they said there was likely to be trouble. I was on the boats all the while except a few hours Sunday, when I went to Buffalo. No one called upon Phillips or made any demands upon him to my knowledge. Last night about 12:30 o'clock about 80 men came down to the boat. I heard the noise and walking up on a pile of lumber saw the men coming down the tow-path in groups of twos, threes and fours. When they were about 150 feet from the boat I left the lumber pile and returned to the boat. The crowd then got up on the lumber pile. Someone yelled: 'Anybody aboard who wishes to go ashore?" "I replied. 'No one.' "This was repeated and they received the same answer. One of the men yelled, Well, let's set her adrift.' Then as a marshal of the United States, I called upon them not to take the law into their own hands. They paid no attention to me and started to come aboard. I warned them again and for a moment they hesitated and talked among themselves. Then they separated and jumped aboard. Capt. Phillips yelled, 'Keep off; my life is my own and I will protect my property.' "He stood beside me on the boat John Graff. He had a piece of wood in his hand. When the mob jumped on the boat Phillips went back to the stern. As the men came over the side I tried to [count] the men, but could not. In the midst of the scramble and without any preliminary violence a shot was fired. Then another and I saw the captain fall. One of the men pointed a gun at me and I did nothing. I did not see the captain strike a blow. After the shots were fired the men jumped ashore and cut the ropes and I followed them to the dock, I hurried for a doctor— Dr. Edmunds. We found the two boats at the bridge." "Did you see the son?" asked Mr. Penney. "Young Phillips had his head half way out of the hatch of the boat May when the men charged. I don't know how he was injured. I did not see him on the John Graff. I had a 31 caliber revolver, but did not use it." "Did not Perew tell you to lay low?" Smearing was asked by Foreman Smith. After some hesitancy he replied, "no." Testimony of Murphy, Phillips's driver, aged 20 (Coronor's Inquest) "I was asleep in the cabin of the Graff when the mob came," he said. "I was awakened by the sound of voices and the tramping of feet. It sounded as if they were un the Graff. It sounded as if all of the orders were given by one man. I heard this unknown give orders to let go the stern line and I heard lumber thrown, and stones clattered on the boat. The windows were smashed in the cabin. After piling lumber against the door to keep me in they paid no more attention to me. They followed the boats after they were cut adrift, throwing stones and lumber, trying to hit the girl, Capt. Phillips' daughter. I crawled out of the window after the boats were sent adrift and reached the cabin of the May. Young Phillips was lying on the floor with a big wound in his head. His sister was bathing his head. The other driver and myself got the boards away from the windows in order to get into the cabin. I looked at the clock. It was 2:30. The mob had been there two hours. After helping the girl with her brother I tried to get a line ashore. I found Capt. Phillips on the deck of the May, about the center of the boat. He way lying face downward, in a position as if he had fallen away from the dock. I felt of his pulse and found he was dead. We turned his body over and put a coat under his head. Meantime young Phillips was madly delirious, and the girl called for us to help hold him. We were holding him when we came to the bridge." Testimony of Stephen Shover, Phillips's driver, age 19 (Coronor's Inquest) "Stephen Shover was the next Witness. He is 19 years old and lives in West Troy. He is also a driver. He testified: "I was called just before the row began; was In the cabin of the May when I heard a lot of fierce yells; looked out and law a lot of men on the boat. One of the men yelled, 'Come on; if there are any good men among you, come on.' Then I saw a man jump on Capt. Phillips. I saw Capt. Phillips raise his stick. Immediately two shots were fired by a man who stood close by the captain. I did not know any of the men. When the men first came aboard I heard Capt, Phillips say, 'Men. I have got to do this to keep myself and children from starving.' Soon after Capt. Phillips was shot I saw a fellow hit his son and knock him down in a corner. Then I ran for the cabin because I was afraid they would kill me. Next thing I saw the son when he staggered into the cabin. The men were then jumping off the boat. 'Father's dead,' he said to his sister. The blood was pouring down his face. Then he fell on the floor, crying and yelling. I am sure the captain fired no shots, I saw no one have a revolver. I heard the marshal say, 'Don't come on here; obey the law.' The mob yelled, 'We'll take State's Prison to kill that man.' " Shover's testimony corroborated that of Murphy. Murphy and Shover identified a revolver found on the deck on the left side of the captain. It... [Policeman] Christ Kumro was a witness. He is one of the two policemen who saw the whole affair. He is a very "husky"man. He said: "I have special instructions on Sunday night to protect Scribner's dock. The mob put in an appearance at 12:40. There were from 50 to 75 men in the party. Some were on the dock and a lot more were on the lumber. 'Come on, men; don't be cowards, get aboard,' yelled some one of the men on the lumber pile to those on the dock. 'Stay oft,' Capt. Phillips cried, 'I am on my own boat; my life is my own. I will, shoot the first man that comes aboard." I ordered the men away. They grabbed me and thrust me aside. 'Kill him; kill the cop,' someone hollered. 'If he lays another hand on you shoot him.' They were too much for me, and I was ready to quit. The two shots came soon afterward. I saw the flash and saw the captain drop. The moon was shining but a lumber pile threw a shadow oh the boat so I could not distinguish the face of the man who fired the shot. He was within four feet of the captain. I did not see the boy. Then I heard the order, 'Let go the line,' and saw the mob jump ashore. They threw lumber and stones at the boat as it floated down stream. I knew some of the men by name. I arrested three of them today, Perew, Mulligan and Wheeler. I am positive they were there. I arrested another man this morning whose name I cannot remember. I know his face well." Policeman Duffy was the next witness: "The mob came from the east as if from the bridge," he said. "When they put in appearance I was talking with the Deputy Marshal. He then got on the boat and stood beside the captain. The mob stopped on the way picking up stones and clubs. I saw Wheeler and another man whom I know and whose name I cannot recall as they jumped on the lumber pile. I also saw Perew there. They called the captain a lot of vile names and ordered him to get off the boat. 'Gentlemen,' said the captain, "I knew what I was going to do when I left Rochester and I am going to do it." They yelled that he was robbing them of their job and urged their companions forward. The captain said he would shoot the first man who boarded the boat. Two shots and a big fight followed. Then the bow lines were cut, the mob jumped off and the boat swung into the stream. I recognized Wandel, Jim Riley and Abe Wheeler. They are locked up. I recognized another man whose name I cannot remember. He Is also under arrest. I then went away with Kumro. His story as told on the stand is substantially correct." Mr. Penney called Abe Wheeler, who is one of the prisoners. He is a square-jawed, brutal-faced fellow over six feet tall and weighs at least 200 pounds. Mr. Penney told him he need not answer any questions which might Incriminate himself, unless so disposed. "I refuse to testify," said Wheeler. Coroner Hill then adjourned the Inquest until 9 o'clock this morning. After the Inquest Is concluded a jury will be empanelled to sit upon the son. Charles L. Phillips. Upon the evidence brought out at the inquest Justice Wallenmeier, Jr., will decide whether to hold the prisoners for the action of the grand Jury, After the Coroner's verdict the case goes into the hands of District Attorney Kenefleck. In the eyes of the law every man in the mob is equally guilty with the man who fired he shot or delivered the fatal blow to young Phillips. Miss Florence Phillips, the captain's daughter, who was nearly prostrated by the terrible affair, was taken to the home of Mrs. Wattengel and is somewhat recovered. Henry Reynolds, accompanied by Mrs. Phillips, arrived at Tonawanda on the 12:09 train last night, When informed of her son's death at the station she nearly broke down. The meeting between Mrs. Phillips and her daughter at the house of Martin Wattengel was almost heartrending. Capt. Charles Lorenzo Phillips was a canal boatman, 48 years old. He lived in Constantantia, N. Y. He had a little home, a plot of land there. His family consisted of his wife, his son Charles, 23 years old; his daughter Flora, 20 years old; another daughter, I5 years old, and two sons, 10 years old and 5 years old respectively. He owned two canal boats, the John Graff and the May, and last fall bought a [18?]-acre farm at Constantia for $5000, making a small payment on It. The boats were paid for in full. " Then interviews with Godard and Rose, who insist they had no union.
A Midnight Attack (Buffalo Courier 1896-03-25).pdf
Youth arrested vandalizing closed Strand, article (Tonawanda News, 1933-03-24).jpg
Vaudeville performers wanted, Strand Theatre, ad (Tonawanda News, 1931-12-22).jpg
Strand Theatre, ad (Niagara Falls Gazette, 1922-09-27).jpg
Six boys plead not guilty to theft charges, apprehension in Strand basement, article (Tonawanda News, 1926-06-02).jpg
Pianist Jon Janik once accompanied silent films at Strand, article (Tonawanda News, 1985-12-14).jpg
Two girls taken in raids fined, June Young's, Red Pump, Lola's Place, article (Tonawanda News, 1934-07-28).jpg
The Red Pump, Tonawanda, ad (1928-12-24).jpg
The Red Pump, 791 Niagara Street, Tonawanda, matchbook (c1935).jpg
Six women arrested by raiding party in Tonawanda, Goose Island, Red Pump, article (Tonawanda News, 1934-06-18).jpg
Sheriff again sends raiders to big house, Red Pump, Kitty Kuhn's Place, Lola Raison, article (Courier-Express, 1934-07-18).jpg
Dry agents raid Red Pump at 842 Niagara Street, Tonawanda, article (Tonawanda News, 1929-02-16.jpg
Drinkery raided fourth time by local dry squad, Red Pump, article (Courier-Express, 1929-02-16).jpg
Four Held in Raid, Red Pump, Tonawanda, Odd hiding place, article (Buffalo News, 1932-10-20).jpg
Post's Band, Blue House Bunch, Tonawanda, photo (1909).png
Brass band with scarves in field. R. W. King photographer, 316 14th Street, Buffalo, N. Y.
Gratwick Hose, Felton location (Sanborn Insurance map, 1951).jpg
Letter from Wm Rice to Lathrop and Gerber of Tonawanda, suspension bridge (1839-02-23).jpeg
Could this letter be a contractor or engineer sourcing material for the Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge, which would be completed eight years later, in 1948? It comes from eBay, described thus by the seller: It deals with William Rice of New York, who is writing to Lathrop and Gerber in Tonawanda, New York in 1839 to discuss drafts and planks of wood and boats, and building a suspension bridge someplace in New York.
Prominent Tonawandas residences, photos (The Tonawandas of To-Day, c1905).jpg
Showing the homes of Eugene de Kleist, Guy White, A.C. Tuxbury, W. G. Palmer, J. S. Thompson, H. J. Knapp, Frederick Robertson, A Cluster, S. C. Peuchen, R. T. Jones, L. A. Kelsey, W. B. Kerr.
Remington Rand buildings, photo gallery (Dennis Reed Jr., 2008-10-27).jpg
Wulf Bottling Works truck, 20 Minerva, 1938 photo (from Tonawanda and North Tonawanda- 1940-1960 By Historical Society of the Tonawandas).jpg
Wulf Bottling Works, Tonawanda NY, label (c.1942).jpg
Wulf Bottling Works closed for day, Norman W Wulf Sr (1964-07-22).jpg
Wulf Bottling Works, 285 Main Street, North Tonawanda, beer license notice (Tonawanda News, 1944-07-08).jpg
Wulf Bottling Works, 20 Minerva, Tonawanda, ad (Tonawanda News, 1936-12-08).jpg
Wulf Bottling plans to move, article (Tonawanda News, 1958-11-11).jpg
Norman W Wulf Sr., obituary (Tonawanda News, 1964-07-22).jpg
Herman P. Schroeder saloon, 870 Oliver Street, photo (Kearns, Bille, c1915).jpg
Village Inn, photo (Forgotten Buffalo, c2002).jpg
Village Inn, photo (Google Maps, c2021).jpg
Village Inn proprietor has novel hobby, article (Tonawanda News, 1943-03-18).png
Village Inn lists music by Cavallaro, article (Tonawanda News, 1947-05-09).png
Village Inn ad (Tonawanda News, 1975-08-15).png
Village Inn ad (Tonawanda News, 1949-10-07).png
Village Inn ad (Tonawanda News, 1948-02-24).png
Village Inn, war movies ad (Tonawanda News, 1944-12).png
Village Inn, Movies article (Tonawanda News, 1944-10-26).png
Village Inn, For Sale ad (Tonawanda News, 1946).png
Village Inn, Burgundy Room, ad (Tonawanda News, 1952-09-05).png
Village Inn, ad (Tonawanda News, 1947-05-09).png
Erie Canal lock at Tonawanda, photo (Tonawanda and North Tonawanda, Images of America, Volume 1).jpg
Locking into the Niagara River. See also Erie Canal lock into the Niagara River.
Tonawanda and North Tonawanda, Images of America, Volume 1.
Wurlitzer printing plant, photos (1926-07-31 PRE p 10B).JPG
Bach's Cornet Band, N. Tonawanda, photo (1914).jpg
According to the 1973 Flashback item, this 1914 photo shows Bach's Cornet Band "standing in front of the restaurant and saloon formerly operated by Julius Bach at Schenck and Bryant Streets." Others identified include Michael Lawlor, Herman Miller, Ed Kowsky and William Runde Jr. In 1894, Julius Bach is moved to take out ads in local papers advising "All persons are hereby notified not to trust my son, Ferdinand Bach, as I will pay no debts contracted by him."
Alexander's from Manhattan Street, photo (Dennis Reed Jr 2020).jpg
Wurlitzer and Sawyer Creek, watercolor (2017).jpg
Richardson Boats, water color (2017).jpg
Cantilever counterweight, watercolor (2017).jpg
Wurlitzer at night, colored sketch (2016).jpg
Walck Road Incinerator, colored sketch (2017).jpg
Southern swing bridge center, colored sketch (2016).jpg
Schenck building, ink and wash (2016).jpg
Schenck and Oliver apartments, ink and wash (2017).jpg
Schenck and Oliver, ink and wash (2017).jpg
Robinson Street power building, colored sketch (2017).jpg
Magyar Reformation church, sketch (2017).jpg
Gateway Park sheds, ink and wash (2017).jpg
Riviera Theater Maidens, colored sketch (2016).jpg
Renaissance Bridge, ink and wash (2017).jpg
Rainbow Sports at night, inl and markers (2017).jpg
Pre Civil War Gratwick home, colored sketch (2017).jpg
Platters Chocolate Cafe, ink and wash (2017).jpg