1 200 79 https://nthistory.com/files/original/7c26c21f6c91c83232810dfb8692e785.jpg fb3c725be11bbac16297525b1fdca9d4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge opening, Webster Street, photo (c.1938).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1938 bridge photo webster https://nthistory.com/files/original/6be94ede3c922d58601211e63fe5992c.jpg 1f5bbd558fb011bfdb3b9cf08422f0d7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Niagara Silk Mills Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Niagara Silk Mills postcard" src="http://nthistory.com/custom/cover/44.jpg" /> Postcard c. 1913. According to a c.1913 news article, "The Niagara Silk Mills began business in an old wooden building on Sweeney street [around 1898] with thirty operatives." By 1913 the concern dominates Sweeney Street, standing where the old Vandervoort "mansion" on Sweeney was, and where Gateway Center is today. The Niagara Silk Mills (Van Raalte Silk Mills after 1917) produces ladies' undergarments, gloves, and similar fineries. They marketed their materials with the iconography of Niagara Falls (reminiscent of the Pan Am Exposition imagery), and with appearances by silent film sirens. By 1937 there are locations in Saratoga Springs, Dunkirk, Paterson and Boonton, N.J. Closed in 1963, the building along Sweeney was converted into the Downtowner Hotel in 1964 and later became the Packet Inn / Woodshed. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Van Raalte, Elks Club, canal from Tonawanda, photo (1925-10-13).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1925-10-13 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/19fdc6490aa76c4c88a8f9ddc8422785.jpg 670faf0ac717036c9c8e12b76628df59 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge south abutment construction, railroad bridge in use just east, photo (Annual canal report, c1918).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1918 Description An account of the resource Clear view of old train bridge with pediments bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/4526add5d0bd2700cc697192b5de5fa1.jpg 91107a5dd8aa1ffdbadb98538473e96b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge construction, coffer dam, railroad bridge in use, photo (Annual canal report, c1918).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1918 bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/86e53819be2de352184f4b53e7a85148.jpg 084e3b16279fd05f1b429786dd89234e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Firefighting in the Tonawandas Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="https://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/80.jpg" alt="Gratwick Hose No.6, Felton Street, c.1929" />Gratwick Hose No.6, Felton Street, c.1929 <blockquote>The greatest enemy the lumbermen had was fire. Annually it destroyed millions of dollars of lumber and cost many lives. A step forward came on May 7, 1876, when twenty of the most prominent residents of the Village of North Tonawanda gathered together in the school house at the corner of Main and Tremont Streets and formed themselves into a Company for the protection of property against the ravages of fire.  The newly formed Company petitioned the Village Board and in special session on May 15, 1876, the board approved and appointed them firemen of the Village and their company was called the North Tonawanda Bucket Company, later to be called the Columbia Hook and Ladder Company No. 1. North Tonawanda depended heavily on Volunteer Firemen and quickly grew to seven companies located at important places around the city.</blockquote> - Sarah E. Walter's thesis (nthistorymuseum.org). Allan Herschell "helped to organize the first fire company of North Tonawanda" (Biographical and portrait cyclopedia of Niagara County, New York, p.361). <table border="1" cellspacing="1" cellpadding="1" align="center"> <tbody> <tr> <td>Started</td> <td>Name</td> <td>Notes</td> </tr> <tr> <td>May 7, 1876</td> <td>North Tonawanda Bucket Company / Columbia Hook and Ladder Company No.1</td> <td>Thompson in 1893 directory</td> </tr> <tr> <td>March 1, 1886</td> <td>Active Hose Company No.2</td> <td>"Ironton Boys", Robinson south of Marion in 1893</td> </tr> <tr> <td>1886-1909</td> <td>Hydrant Hose Company No.3</td> <td>Sweeney and Main at bridge</td> </tr> <tr> <td>April 1887</td> <td>Live Active Hose Co. No.4</td> <td> Thompson St (1893), now Goundry and Vandervoort</td> </tr> <tr> <td>January 26, 1891</td> <td>Rescue Fire Company No.5</td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td>1886?</td> <td><a href="https://yellow.place/en/gratwick-hose-fire-company-6-north-tonawanda-usa">Gratwick Hose Company No.6</a></td> <td>Felton until 1962.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>1894</td> <td>Sweeney Hose No.7</td> <td> </td> </tr> </tbody> </table> Of Hydrant Hose Co. No. 3, it was said somewhere: <blockquote>The fighting crew of the old Hydrant Hose Company liked to fight fires so much, they would first fight the men of any other fire company who raced to a North Tonawanda fire to see who got the pleasure of conquering the flames. Often the flames ended up as the victor as the firefighters spent their energies in a brawl rather than on the element of nature.</blockquote> According to Harry Dorn in an article in this set, <blockquote>The Tonawanda Fire Dept. was organized in the early 1860s when the Village of Tonawanda had a population of 2,000...One of the frst companies was the Shepard Hose Company which after several years was known as the DeGraff Hose, Hydrant Hose Company and thewn on Aug 25, 1898 became National Hose No.1 [Ed. Hydrant Hose appears in newspaper record until at least early 1900s].</blockquote> Columbia Hook & Ladder in The Tonawanda News, May 9, 1896: <blockquote>Monday, June 15, has been selected as the date of the Firemen's Annual Parade. It is expected that it will prove of more than ordinary interest as unusual efforts will be put forth this year to make it an enjoyable spectacular affair. In this connection it is interesting to note that Thursday of this week was the twentieth anniversary of the founding of the first fire company In North Tonawanda. Previous to this date North Tonawanda had paid Tonawanda $300 a year for the fire protection that the Tonawanda companies afforded. The parent company of North Tonawanda was the Columbia Hook and Ladder Company; it is still in existence, but is now one of eight splendid companies of which North Tonawanda can boast. As before stated it was organized May 7, 1876, and its first president was Frank Fellows. It was organized under a famous old hickory tree which stood on the ground now occupied by the parsonage of the First Methodist Church. Nicholas Beckrich was the first foreman of this company and other members of this crack organization were John E. Oelkers, Frank Batt, H. U. Berger, M. J. Wattengel, W. P. Hayes, Jno. Spillman, Aug. Duckwitz, Fred Schultz, Isaac Gardei, Geo. Miller, John Haas, Julius Miller and others. A number of these early firemen are numbered among the most prominent residents of North Tonawanda but it is with considerable pleasure that they recall the days of their early triumphs.</blockquote> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Hydrant Hose Company, Sweeney and Main, photo (c1910).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1910 Description An account of the resource Identified as "Columbia Hook & Ladder" when collected, though from location and banner looks like Hydrant Hose to me. bridge firefighter person village https://nthistory.com/files/original/13df86f3200f100810f0a1cb695c635e.jpg 40255c85a08eab897722aa75e40cf2eb https://nthistory.com/files/original/23c1bd30180e61229cf142e306f17e21.jpg 32d44849deadd4f5fff880e9b3b7b6c9 https://nthistory.com/files/original/88d4289c8a806ef10fd038c56d9a991c.jpg 3c5e6890ed43e1831ebaef10193f1885 https://nthistory.com/files/original/6da82479665aae7d98e56ee09f37c7c8.jpg 6c0cc10b7b4e176ba70cfae5ac69603f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Trains and Trolleys Description An account of the resource Trains Soon after the Erie Canal is completed, railroads begin to compete for business. From <a href="https://researchworks.oclc.org/archivegrid/collection/data/930152959">researchworks.oclc.org</a>: <blockquote>In 1834 the Buffalo and Niagara Falls Railroad Company was incorporated to take over the Buffalo and Black Rock Company. It extended the lines to Niagara Falls and into Tonawanda. In 1853 the Buffalo and Niagara Falls Railroad Company was leased by New York Central Railroad and was merged in 1855.</blockquote> From <a href="https://www.niagarafallsinfo.com/niagara-falls-history/niagara-falls-municipal-history/railroads-of-niagara-falls/the-buffalo-niagara-falls-railroad/">niagarafallsinfo.com</a>: <blockquote>The Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad was incorporated on May 3rd, 1834. The Legislature of the State of New York passed a law to empower the railroad to construct a single or double track railroad between the City of Buffalo and the <a href="https://www.niagarafallsinfo.com/niagara-falls-history/niagara-falls-municipal-history/the-city-of-the-falls-plan/the-idea-for-the-city-of-the-falls/">Village at Niagara Falls</a>. The railroad had a mandate to operate for a 50 year term and was empowered to absorb all rights, privileges and franchises belonging to the Buffalo and Black Rock Railroad Company, which had been built and was being operated by horse power. The Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad began operating in 1845. The 28 mile trip from Buffalo to Niagara Falls was a three hour journey being pulled by a wood stoked steam locomotive.... In 1852, the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad relocated their tracks to the west side of the Erie Canal. On December 22nd 1853, the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad was leased to the New York Central Railroad. On April 23rd 1869, the New York Central Railroad began operations within the Niagara escarpment.</blockquote> From <a href="https://buffalohistory.org/Explore/Exhibits/virtual_exhibits/buffalo_anniversary/175th/page_e1.htm">buffalohistory.org</a>: <blockquote>The Buffalo and Niagara Falls Rail Road was the first in Erie County to use steam locomotives. Service from Black Rock to Tonawanda began in August, 1836; from Buffalo to Tonawanda in September; and by November, 1836, the train ran on a regular schedule between Buffalo & Niagara Falls.</blockquote> Railroads on the maps The <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/3974">1837 Tonawanda/Whitehaven map</a> shows the B&NF railroad already established on Webster. It also shows a "Road to Lockport" and a "Proposed railroad to Lockport" heading out "Detroit Street" (later, Goundry Street). In <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/1258">this 1838 map</a>, it appears the former "road" hosts a new "Tonawanda & Lockport Railroad." Some more info from <a href="https://www.newyorkcentraltrainstation.org/history-new-york-central-train-station">newyorkcentraltrainstattion.org.</a> By <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/3560">1852</a>, a third line, "The Canandaigua and Niagara Falls," is added. From <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elmira_and_Lake_Ontario_Railroad">Wikipedia</a>: <blockquote>On July 1, 1853, the Canandaigua and Niagara Falls Railroad opened between Canandaigua and North Tonawanda. It was also 6 ft (1,829 mm) broad gauge, and was leased by the Canandaigua & Elmira RR, giving it access to the Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge.</blockquote> In <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/1664">this 1854 map</a>, The Canandaigua route has changed to run south of the Erie Canal and then be carried over the canal into North Tonawanda at the foot of Oliver street. The cantilever bridge will later be built here. By the time of <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/240">this 1875 map</a>, a third railroad crosses the canal into North Tonawanda: The Erie, at the foot of Vandervoort street. As late as 1908, there are still tracks on the east side of Webster street. Looks like the railroad agrees to remove them in December 1921, not sure when it happens. Trolleys Before everybody in North Tonawanda could afford their very own muffler-less Honda Civic to run up and down Oliver Street, trolleys were an important means of personal transportation. Several lines ran throughout the city, moving people to and from their jobs, churches, or just out for a look around. Though they may seem romantic to us now, people griped about the trolleys the same way we complain about snow plows today. Apparently their slow speed was sometimes targeted: An item in this set describes a "well-known peddler" in the Gratwick area who is injured by a trolley car. The author drolly observes, "'Twould have been a real miracle if a Gratwick car could have got up enough speed to have killed him" (Tonawanda News, 1908-2-13). The trolley era did not last long. By the 1920s, the electric streetcar had been passed by the gasoline-powered bus as the most prevalent means of public transportation. Another article in this set from the Tonawanda News, "Carpenter now operates 14 busses in the Tonawandas," outlines the rise of the Carpenter Rapid Transit buses. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Electric Railway, Stumpf cabinet photo (1917-09-29).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1917-09-29 automobile bridge carriage photo https://nthistory.com/files/original/f76e95ea46ee5cc58e0964364306d7c2.jpeg 901a40f27ae38ca3729be778729f52de https://nthistory.com/files/original/bd70f5df7a0aba8ea0c1da21fffc733e.png ec20a60d433795ce8fa9fd4f7e528e4c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Swing Bridges Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016)" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/91b.jpg" />Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016) North Swing Bridge (Chutes Bridge) Apr 21 1883 "An act to incorporate the Tonawanda Island Bridge Company, for the purpose of constructing and operating a bridge from Tonawanda island to North Tonawanda [passed]" - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IYJZAAAAYAAJ">Gen Statutes of State of New York.</a> <a href="https://archives.nypl.org/mss/2372#c1061817">Tonawanda Island Bridge Co. Minutes in NYPL</a> (some maps too) TIBC ceased to be with the absorption of subsidiary lines in 1913:  "The [New York Central Railroad Co.] merged with itself, on March 7, 1913, the following named [ten] companies, whose properties had been operated under various leases and agreements and whose entire capital stock was owned by The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company."  There is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonawanda_Island_Railroad">Tonawanda Island Railroad</a> operated from 1983 until a February 12, 1996 emergency order deems the swing bridge its single piece of rolling stock deficient. "While inspecting the bridge on January 2, 1996, Inspector Anderson fell through the bridge due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge timbers." Bridge #7708810. "On June 28, 1965, the entire bridge caught on fire and the creosoted deck planks burned up in a spectacular blaze." (Taylor). This event hurried in the <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/4026">Durkee bridge</a>. South Swing Bridge "March 2, 1885 - Petition was received from A. M. Dodge & Co., asking permission to construct and maintain a swing bridge across Tonawanda Harbor, landing in Erie County to be at or near foot of Clay Street" - Tonawanda News, 1941-11-07. December 18, 1886, Susupension Bridge Journal reports "Engines and cars have been passing over and back on the swing bridge of the N. Y. Central Railroad which spans the Tonawanda Creek." According to a Tonawanda News article, the southern bridge is last used in the 1940s, when the Continental Can company closes. <ul> <li data-start="2511" data-end="2545"> Bridge IDs: B18-A and B18-C. </li> <li data-start="2546" data-end="2594"> Car limits: 120 tons max per coupled cars. </li> <li data-start="2595" data-end="2704"> Engine classes restricted because of weight — lighter switchers only. </li> </ul> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Swing bridge to Tonawanda Island, photo (George Hunter, c1965).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1965 bridge swingbridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/ecd2d311b23825c7870aaa928fc9e5a1.jpeg c6012bd034e279d756dd1272fd388145 Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Cantilever bridge being tested, photo (c.1922, Bridgehunter.com).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1922 bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/22c562d6865f9e1e435a1fff3161c262.jpg 56325e684107bff846f1181db1256315 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Long bridge damaged, train crossing canal, photo (1916-03-30).jpg Description An account of the resource From <a href="https://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252011%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201916%2520Jan-Sep%2520Grayscale%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201916%2520Jan-Sep%2520Grayscale%2520-%25201258.pdf%23xml%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FdtSearch%2Fdtisapi6.dll%3Fcmd%3Dgetpdfhits%26u%3Dffffffffd10f52cb%26DocId%3D1961679%26Index%3DZ%253a%255cDISK%2520U%26HitCount%3D47%26hits%3D23%2B89%2Bd7%2Bd8%2Bf1%2B102%2B1b4%2B202%2B215%2B217%2B442%2B492%2B4a6%2B595%2B5c4%2B64e%2B69e%2B88f%2B890%2B8bc%2B8da%2B8fe%2B928%2B92e%2B9d9%2Ba50%2Ba74%2Ba8b%2Bab8%2Bb23%2Bb9f%2Bbe8%2Bc44%2Bc5b%2Bc7d%2Bcaf%2Bcb7%2Bd39%2B1083%2B1128%2B112b%2B11e4%2B120f%2B12b0%2B12d5%2B12da%2B12e3%2B%26SearchForm%3D%252fFulton%255fform%252ehtml%26.pdf&uri=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252011%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201916%2520Jan-Sep%2520Grayscale%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201916%2520Jan-Sep%2520Grayscale%2520-%25201258.pdf&xml=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FdtSearch%2Fdtisapi6.dll%3Fcmd%3Dgetpdfhits%26u%3Dffffffffd10f52cb%26DocId%3D1961679%26Index%3DZ%253a%255cDISK%2520U%26HitCount%3D47%26hits%3D23%2B89%2Bd7%2Bd8%2Bf1%2B102%2B1b4%2B202%2B215%2B217%2B442%2B492%2B4a6%2B595%2B5c4%2B64e%2B69e%2B88f%2B890%2B8bc%2B8da%2B8fe%2B928%2B92e%2B9d9%2Ba50%2Ba74%2Ba8b%2Bab8%2Bb23%2Bb9f%2Bbe8%2Bc44%2Bc5b%2Bc7d%2Bcaf%2Bcb7%2Bd39%2B1083%2B1128%2B112b%2B11e4%2B120f%2B12b0%2B12d5%2B12da%2B12e3%2B%26SearchForm%3D%252fFulton%255fform%252ehtml%26.pdf&openFirstHlPage=false">Tonawanda News</a>: <blockquote>WATERLOGGED BOAT SWEPT OVER THE DAM A waterlogged canal boat came down the Tonawanda creek late last night and went over the old dam. It became lodged underneath the bridges at Webster street. The wrecking crew of the New York Central came here today to release the craft, fearyig that damage might result to the railroad bridge. A boat house was also swept over the dam last night. It piled up against one of the abutments of the Central's bridge and was broken to pieces.</blockquote> Also pictured: Scanlon's Hall, State National Bank, Elks, Sweeney Building. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1916-03-30 bridge canal downtown train webster https://nthistory.com/files/original/9888865d818fdfd3b95d2c1666da18b3.jpg 89772e3e78806dafc2ddc25458599294 Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Tonawanda Terminal completed, photo (NYSA, 1916-08-29).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1916-08-29 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/80ea2bebcfd63ba56f5b4466801c80a5.jpg 180a0fe6cdc84de3ebd951313b277e28 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource South abutment. Webster Street bridge, photo (NYSA, 1918-10-15).jpg Description An account of the resource First Trust of Tonawanda. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1918-10-15 bridge canal tonawanda https://nthistory.com/files/original/6c502b1c517764d962a884e60479cc17.jpg d9965d461ba3f005f2cc791f6b7365d7 Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource North side of canal looking east from the Main Street Bridge in Tonawanda, photo (NYSA, 1909-03-09).jpg Description An account of the resource Canal boats, bridge at Oliver before cantilever, Herschell merry-go-rounds on Sweeney. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1909-03-09 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/1098a487344a8680df6d8e6054acaada.jpg 2c09981e400649254b4b0bacad9cbcb7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Main and Delaware Street Bridge, Tonawanda, photo (NYSA, 1905-05-12).jpg Description An account of the resource Harvey H. Quinn of Buffalo boat. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1905-05-12 bridge canal tonawanda https://nthistory.com/files/original/446806d89b1f90560e437eb6f9c2e7df.jpg 51e4b6e1d86f043cc826e3c9c5096b5e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Main-Webster Street Bridge; north span, looking north, photo (NYSA, 1920-06-07).jpg Description An account of the resource Scanlon, Sweeney Building, Real Estate Exchange, National Bank Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920-06-07 bridge webster https://nthistory.com/files/original/b184399c0623d2055d82a54ca58df6d1.jpg 47d0210a2112c1eb79d33481126b695e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Main-Webster Street Bridge, Tonawanda; pier built. Erecting steel, photo (1919-11-10).jpg Description An account of the resource Sweeney building, Van Raalte silk Mills Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1919-11-10 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/ffa054add5f8a24de7313095491486df.jpg d3cd6805b60d5407206aa974a5a2e079 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Boats at Tonawanda Terminal, looking east, photo (NYSA, 1920-11-22).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920-11-22 bridge canal cantilever tonawanda https://nthistory.com/files/original/40304dfb9ce0067ef3aa243587bef011.jpg 0256fc79774403d506ebe3321f47f3e7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge, Tonawanda, looking north, photo (1920-11-22).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920-11-22 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/c5f75a154c2569824ef698a03af19196.jpg cade3efa6447b9458c49fb3d10a62436 https://nthistory.com/files/original/5108088c1aa9623794a48d7853d841f1.jpg 92b10ddb89fd5e28c8a1d624813f688a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Martinsville Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="../../../custom/cover/56.jpg" alt="Postcard view looking north up Old Falld Blvd" />Old Falls Boulevard, looking north from Lockport Ave. to Niagara Falls Blvd. Postcard detail, c.1900. The northeast part of North Tonawanda known as "Martinsville" is named after the father of the Protestant Reformation, Martin Luther. It is settled by German Lutheran farmers, beginning around 1843. They settled in narrow farms along the west bank of Tonawanda Creek. As the area developed, a "downtown" emerged along William Street, present-day Old Falls Blvd, near Lockport Rd. (pictured above). The village boasted its own post office, stores and places of entertainment.  Most of Martinsville was incorporated into the then-booming City of North Tonawanda in 1897. The sections of Martinsville east of present-day Old Falls and Niagara Falls boulevards are considered part of Wheatfield. The real estate transaction that brought many of the settlers to the area, its early growth, and the contentious religious devotion of its people are described in <a href="http://www.nthistory.com/items/show/606">History of Niagara County 1821-1878</a>: <blockquote>In 1843 Carl Sack, Erdman Wurl and Fred Grosskopf purchased of William Vandervoote 400 acres, at $15 per acre, on the Tonawanda creek, in the southeast corner of the town, four miles east of Tonawanda village, in what is now known as the village of Martinsville. Lutheran religious antecedents caused the adoption of this name by the disciples of Martin Luther. The original purchase was divided into small lots of three acres and up- ward, as others were able to purchase, to provide for the location of thirty families the first season. They erected ten log houses in the autumn, each of which was occupied by three or four families during the winter and until joint efforts relieved the immigrants by building others. The families remained in Buffalo until the first houses were built, obtaining the best accommodations they could find. Forbidding as the prospect in the beginning must have been, it has been changed to the appearance of prosperity. The church organization is the controlling element in the government of the community, now consisting of one hundred families, connected with the two now existing, the result of divided feeling, but not an abandonment of the Lutheran faith.</blockquote> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bushes Bridge across Erie Canal, Martinsville, postcard (c1920).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920 bridge canal martinsville https://nthistory.com/files/original/0da449b6d05eb7ef7cc29737692bee62.jpg 92dc3d873c5a195fd71071cf110f6b12 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Tonawanda Dam, looking S, photo (1916-04-10).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1916-04-10 bridge canal dam long https://nthistory.com/files/original/7b2faf2875a6f57c535ce9acd48278d2.jpg 91d0cd8d33ce76891682a5d24b87566e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Swing Bridges Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016)" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/91b.jpg" />Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016) North Swing Bridge (Chutes Bridge) Apr 21 1883 "An act to incorporate the Tonawanda Island Bridge Company, for the purpose of constructing and operating a bridge from Tonawanda island to North Tonawanda [passed]" - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IYJZAAAAYAAJ">Gen Statutes of State of New York.</a> <a href="https://archives.nypl.org/mss/2372#c1061817">Tonawanda Island Bridge Co. Minutes in NYPL</a> (some maps too) TIBC ceased to be with the absorption of subsidiary lines in 1913:  "The [New York Central Railroad Co.] merged with itself, on March 7, 1913, the following named [ten] companies, whose properties had been operated under various leases and agreements and whose entire capital stock was owned by The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company."  There is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonawanda_Island_Railroad">Tonawanda Island Railroad</a> operated from 1983 until a February 12, 1996 emergency order deems the swing bridge its single piece of rolling stock deficient. "While inspecting the bridge on January 2, 1996, Inspector Anderson fell through the bridge due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge timbers." Bridge #7708810. "On June 28, 1965, the entire bridge caught on fire and the creosoted deck planks burned up in a spectacular blaze." (Taylor). This event hurried in the <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/4026">Durkee bridge</a>. South Swing Bridge "March 2, 1885 - Petition was received from A. M. Dodge & Co., asking permission to construct and maintain a swing bridge across Tonawanda Harbor, landing in Erie County to be at or near foot of Clay Street" - Tonawanda News, 1941-11-07. December 18, 1886, Susupension Bridge Journal reports "Engines and cars have been passing over and back on the swing bridge of the N. Y. Central Railroad which spans the Tonawanda Creek." According to a Tonawanda News article, the southern bridge is last used in the 1940s, when the Continental Can company closes. <ul> <li data-start="2511" data-end="2545"> Bridge IDs: B18-A and B18-C. </li> <li data-start="2546" data-end="2594"> Car limits: 120 tons max per coupled cars. </li> <li data-start="2595" data-end="2704"> Engine classes restricted because of weight — lighter switchers only. </li> </ul> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource South swing bridge in operation (c1950).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1950 bridge creek https://nthistory.com/files/original/4b4c286e804a3f17ac656fc7697cf676.jpg 97fc214456f84f9e8e3d217a30d06694 https://nthistory.com/files/original/7489547397096a1acdbaf3bfeaa42b92.jpg 6fdc10cc96133103ae576081a209de4c https://nthistory.com/files/original/5aeeae04e18433cd09871d3991b2f8a9.jpeg 14608892d97d76ad0d5113efc24fffa4 https://nthistory.com/files/original/d8ff1c6742a4859f9e6bb48904cc08f6.jpeg 9219e667733d09853dfa3bd2f8157f50 Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Entrance to New Barge Canal, postcards (1912-1917).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1912 bridge canal collection creek hd https://nthistory.com/files/original/7ee2b100bfb4c40fec1cfc71305615f8.jpg 3a016c688e913e50da90d759dabce71e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge opening over canal, photo (1921).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1921 bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/bbc38dac5700fb25b023e93cde42bb4d.png 4724c23428affc3d64f002bd8537aa20 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Downtown Description An account of the resource Most of North Tonawanda's downtown area developed between 1875 and 1900. In this collection are preserved views of many vanished buildings: The YMCA and City Hall at the southeast corner of Tremont and Main; the 6-story 1891 Smith building (Real Estate Exchange) at the northeast corner of Tremont and Webster, the gothic stone State National Bank at the northwest corner of Sweeney and Webster, and Scanlon's Hall on the southwest corner of the same intersection, to name a few. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource View from Real Estate Exchange building c1910, photo (Historical Society of the Tonawandas).png bridge canal dam tonawandacreek trolley https://nthistory.com/files/original/c83c7872c72e56d0e35b25e71582b96f.jpg 156082d2a7e7b1c3db839e1b0478a079 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Railroad Bridge over canal at Vandervoort Description An account of the resource The Erie Bridge at Vandervoort carried Erie Railroad trains, electric streetcars--and apparently courageous pedestrians across the Tonawanda Creek and Erie Canal. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bridges over Tonawanda Creek, aerial photo detail (1927).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1927 bridge canal creek interpretive https://nthistory.com/files/original/ca5f1f9ce3fbce632dff76e209de3dd1.jpg 6a8a9676dbe41382e5fce237c832ce0e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Main Street, jack-knife, and Vandervoort bridges across NY Barge Canal, photo (Erie Canal Museum, 1920-11-21).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920-11-21 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived <a href="https://eriecanalmuseum.org/">Erie Canal History Museum</a> bridge canal creek https://nthistory.com/files/original/89a941c73270584b144b2d323bf878fe.jpg 3e401a56a5df3dc56d56f427f0c48d42 https://nthistory.com/files/original/4948f1d1b829cee0b468cb6b173f1653.jpg 527425b7988766735d04b65c6035757a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Derrick boat to remove Tonawanda dam, postcard (1918-01).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1918-01 bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/c4772c4ef2abfdc766d41b819009a97c.jpg 42a62aae8c454b735a56aa13909487ac Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Trains and Trolleys Description An account of the resource Trains Soon after the Erie Canal is completed, railroads begin to compete for business. From <a href="https://researchworks.oclc.org/archivegrid/collection/data/930152959">researchworks.oclc.org</a>: <blockquote>In 1834 the Buffalo and Niagara Falls Railroad Company was incorporated to take over the Buffalo and Black Rock Company. It extended the lines to Niagara Falls and into Tonawanda. In 1853 the Buffalo and Niagara Falls Railroad Company was leased by New York Central Railroad and was merged in 1855.</blockquote> From <a href="https://www.niagarafallsinfo.com/niagara-falls-history/niagara-falls-municipal-history/railroads-of-niagara-falls/the-buffalo-niagara-falls-railroad/">niagarafallsinfo.com</a>: <blockquote>The Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad was incorporated on May 3rd, 1834. The Legislature of the State of New York passed a law to empower the railroad to construct a single or double track railroad between the City of Buffalo and the <a href="https://www.niagarafallsinfo.com/niagara-falls-history/niagara-falls-municipal-history/the-city-of-the-falls-plan/the-idea-for-the-city-of-the-falls/">Village at Niagara Falls</a>. The railroad had a mandate to operate for a 50 year term and was empowered to absorb all rights, privileges and franchises belonging to the Buffalo and Black Rock Railroad Company, which had been built and was being operated by horse power. The Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad began operating in 1845. The 28 mile trip from Buffalo to Niagara Falls was a three hour journey being pulled by a wood stoked steam locomotive.... In 1852, the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad relocated their tracks to the west side of the Erie Canal. On December 22nd 1853, the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad was leased to the New York Central Railroad. On April 23rd 1869, the New York Central Railroad began operations within the Niagara escarpment.</blockquote> From <a href="https://buffalohistory.org/Explore/Exhibits/virtual_exhibits/buffalo_anniversary/175th/page_e1.htm">buffalohistory.org</a>: <blockquote>The Buffalo and Niagara Falls Rail Road was the first in Erie County to use steam locomotives. Service from Black Rock to Tonawanda began in August, 1836; from Buffalo to Tonawanda in September; and by November, 1836, the train ran on a regular schedule between Buffalo & Niagara Falls.</blockquote> Railroads on the maps The <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/3974">1837 Tonawanda/Whitehaven map</a> shows the B&NF railroad already established on Webster. It also shows a "Road to Lockport" and a "Proposed railroad to Lockport" heading out "Detroit Street" (later, Goundry Street). In <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/1258">this 1838 map</a>, it appears the former "road" hosts a new "Tonawanda & Lockport Railroad." Some more info from <a href="https://www.newyorkcentraltrainstation.org/history-new-york-central-train-station">newyorkcentraltrainstattion.org.</a> By <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/3560">1852</a>, a third line, "The Canandaigua and Niagara Falls," is added. From <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elmira_and_Lake_Ontario_Railroad">Wikipedia</a>: <blockquote>On July 1, 1853, the Canandaigua and Niagara Falls Railroad opened between Canandaigua and North Tonawanda. It was also 6 ft (1,829 mm) broad gauge, and was leased by the Canandaigua & Elmira RR, giving it access to the Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge.</blockquote> In <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/1664">this 1854 map</a>, The Canandaigua route has changed to run south of the Erie Canal and then be carried over the canal into North Tonawanda at the foot of Oliver street. The cantilever bridge will later be built here. By the time of <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/240">this 1875 map</a>, a third railroad crosses the canal into North Tonawanda: The Erie, at the foot of Vandervoort street. As late as 1908, there are still tracks on the east side of Webster street. Looks like the railroad agrees to remove them in December 1921, not sure when it happens. Trolleys Before everybody in North Tonawanda could afford their very own muffler-less Honda Civic to run up and down Oliver Street, trolleys were an important means of personal transportation. Several lines ran throughout the city, moving people to and from their jobs, churches, or just out for a look around. Though they may seem romantic to us now, people griped about the trolleys the same way we complain about snow plows today. Apparently their slow speed was sometimes targeted: An item in this set describes a "well-known peddler" in the Gratwick area who is injured by a trolley car. The author drolly observes, "'Twould have been a real miracle if a Gratwick car could have got up enough speed to have killed him" (Tonawanda News, 1908-2-13). The trolley era did not last long. By the 1920s, the electric streetcar had been passed by the gasoline-powered bus as the most prevalent means of public transportation. Another article in this set from the Tonawanda News, "Carpenter now operates 14 busses in the Tonawandas," outlines the rise of the Carpenter Rapid Transit buses. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Wurlitzer depot, photo, c1930.jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1930 bridge station trolley https://nthistory.com/files/original/5b1e1fbd5e72e4bbfa323767f7be2c56.jpg 309b291b7aacb2ee9e384e621c192b88 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Trains and Trolleys Description An account of the resource Trains Soon after the Erie Canal is completed, railroads begin to compete for business. From <a href="https://researchworks.oclc.org/archivegrid/collection/data/930152959">researchworks.oclc.org</a>: <blockquote>In 1834 the Buffalo and Niagara Falls Railroad Company was incorporated to take over the Buffalo and Black Rock Company. It extended the lines to Niagara Falls and into Tonawanda. In 1853 the Buffalo and Niagara Falls Railroad Company was leased by New York Central Railroad and was merged in 1855.</blockquote> From <a href="https://www.niagarafallsinfo.com/niagara-falls-history/niagara-falls-municipal-history/railroads-of-niagara-falls/the-buffalo-niagara-falls-railroad/">niagarafallsinfo.com</a>: <blockquote>The Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad was incorporated on May 3rd, 1834. The Legislature of the State of New York passed a law to empower the railroad to construct a single or double track railroad between the City of Buffalo and the <a href="https://www.niagarafallsinfo.com/niagara-falls-history/niagara-falls-municipal-history/the-city-of-the-falls-plan/the-idea-for-the-city-of-the-falls/">Village at Niagara Falls</a>. The railroad had a mandate to operate for a 50 year term and was empowered to absorb all rights, privileges and franchises belonging to the Buffalo and Black Rock Railroad Company, which had been built and was being operated by horse power. The Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad began operating in 1845. The 28 mile trip from Buffalo to Niagara Falls was a three hour journey being pulled by a wood stoked steam locomotive.... In 1852, the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad relocated their tracks to the west side of the Erie Canal. On December 22nd 1853, the Buffalo & Niagara Falls Railroad was leased to the New York Central Railroad. On April 23rd 1869, the New York Central Railroad began operations within the Niagara escarpment.</blockquote> From <a href="https://buffalohistory.org/Explore/Exhibits/virtual_exhibits/buffalo_anniversary/175th/page_e1.htm">buffalohistory.org</a>: <blockquote>The Buffalo and Niagara Falls Rail Road was the first in Erie County to use steam locomotives. Service from Black Rock to Tonawanda began in August, 1836; from Buffalo to Tonawanda in September; and by November, 1836, the train ran on a regular schedule between Buffalo & Niagara Falls.</blockquote> Railroads on the maps The <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/3974">1837 Tonawanda/Whitehaven map</a> shows the B&NF railroad already established on Webster. It also shows a "Road to Lockport" and a "Proposed railroad to Lockport" heading out "Detroit Street" (later, Goundry Street). In <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/1258">this 1838 map</a>, it appears the former "road" hosts a new "Tonawanda & Lockport Railroad." Some more info from <a href="https://www.newyorkcentraltrainstation.org/history-new-york-central-train-station">newyorkcentraltrainstattion.org.</a> By <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/3560">1852</a>, a third line, "The Canandaigua and Niagara Falls," is added. From <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elmira_and_Lake_Ontario_Railroad">Wikipedia</a>: <blockquote>On July 1, 1853, the Canandaigua and Niagara Falls Railroad opened between Canandaigua and North Tonawanda. It was also 6 ft (1,829 mm) broad gauge, and was leased by the Canandaigua & Elmira RR, giving it access to the Niagara Falls Suspension Bridge.</blockquote> In <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/1664">this 1854 map</a>, The Canandaigua route has changed to run south of the Erie Canal and then be carried over the canal into North Tonawanda at the foot of Oliver street. The cantilever bridge will later be built here. By the time of <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/240">this 1875 map</a>, a third railroad crosses the canal into North Tonawanda: The Erie, at the foot of Vandervoort street. As late as 1908, there are still tracks on the east side of Webster street. Looks like the railroad agrees to remove them in December 1921, not sure when it happens. Trolleys Before everybody in North Tonawanda could afford their very own muffler-less Honda Civic to run up and down Oliver Street, trolleys were an important means of personal transportation. Several lines ran throughout the city, moving people to and from their jobs, churches, or just out for a look around. Though they may seem romantic to us now, people griped about the trolleys the same way we complain about snow plows today. Apparently their slow speed was sometimes targeted: An item in this set describes a "well-known peddler" in the Gratwick area who is injured by a trolley car. The author drolly observes, "'Twould have been a real miracle if a Gratwick car could have got up enough speed to have killed him" (Tonawanda News, 1908-2-13). The trolley era did not last long. By the 1920s, the electric streetcar had been passed by the gasoline-powered bus as the most prevalent means of public transportation. Another article in this set from the Tonawanda News, "Carpenter now operates 14 busses in the Tonawandas," outlines the rise of the Carpenter Rapid Transit buses. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Martinsville Station, photo (c.1905).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1905 bridge martinsville station train trolley https://nthistory.com/files/original/7d07f0650ae1db0256a05f2399fd2b80.jpg 7d1067dfa1ed6bcba594f7d4a8338e32 Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource New York Central Railroad Bascule Bridge (Erie Canal Museum, 1920-10-08).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920-10-08 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://cdm16694.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/srr_ecm/id/1892/rec/26 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/173e1c57f2507a145a806356771589f0.jpg 6f9424e4198c38fc0876b52e1b0c9dd3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Downtown Description An account of the resource Most of North Tonawanda's downtown area developed between 1875 and 1900. In this collection are preserved views of many vanished buildings: The YMCA and City Hall at the southeast corner of Tremont and Main; the 6-story 1891 Smith building (Real Estate Exchange) at the northeast corner of Tremont and Webster, the gothic stone State National Bank at the northwest corner of Sweeney and Webster, and Scanlon's Hall on the southwest corner of the same intersection, to name a few. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster Street, photo (Erie Canal Museum, 1920-08-03).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920-08-03 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived https://cdm16694.contentdm.oclc.org/digital/collection/srr_ecm/id/1874/rec/24 (used) Description An account of the resource Niagara Savings and Loan, White Star Hotel, Scanlon, State National Bank, Sweeney Building. bridge downtown webster https://nthistory.com/files/original/ebad7b6842b1a7557752e26d303ad4ff.jpg 65bba3a24e68e9ab58b2ec28c581b7df https://nthistory.com/files/original/225792fac830cf60c2431c718e5dbe66.jpg aecd7407fff43f09f5f6f1d7bde89db4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Lumber Business of the Tonawandas Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/48.jpg" alt="Map of the Lumber District of the Tonawandas, 1893" />In the heyday of the Tonawandas' lumber years, practically every available inch of the Niagara riverfront and Tonawanda Island is covered in lumber (shown as lettered, colored portions in the map above). <a href="http://nthistory.com/items/show/1848">1893 Sanborn Insurance map</a>. In the mid-to-late 19th century, vast forests of Midwest timber are cut, dressed and shipped by water to the exploding towns and cities of the east, largely through the Tonawandas. The villages' advantageous location (between the Great Lakes and the Erie Canal) and the natural harbor afforded by Tonawanda Island make it one of the largest lumber ports in the country by 1890. A lock allows small craft to jump between the Niagara River and the Erie Canal via the non-canalized portion of Tonawanda Creek. Scores of lumber comanies spring up here, and their yards vaccum up almost every available inch of real estate along the Niagara River, Tonawanda Creek, and Tonawanda Island. Docks are built over the water, and millions of feet of lumber stored in great blocks are stacked to the sky. They are brought here largely on lake vessels from Lake Erie, where they are moved onto canal boats by lumbershovers and stevedores and hauled by canal boat captains (along with other goods) to points east. The big business means big money, and conflict between the laborers and employers sometimes turns deadly. Articles in this collection describe the lumbershovers strikes of 1892 and 1893, the first of which resulted in the death of a police officer, and both of which required the National Guard to be deployed. A separate collection, "<a href="http://nthistory.com/collections/show/136">Murder at the Docks</a>," digs into the 1895 double murder of canal boat captain Lorenzo Phillips and his son Charles as the captain attempted to haul a load of lumber from P. W. Scribner's Tonawanda dock in defiance of a boatmen's union agreement. As the forests of the midwest were depleted and shipping routes and technology changed, the lumber heyday of the Tonawandas receded into the past. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Birdseye View of the Twin Cities Harbor and Lumber District, postcard (c1910).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1910 bridge lumber tonawandaisland https://nthistory.com/files/original/fdfdb3d00e79f1f70538ff4036214475.jpg b41d404eb2c9cc04f5357d556853189d https://nthistory.com/files/original/7a1efebafc8cb6de290f807368b9cfa3.jpg a8edab5962c5e6d6b2827857c21e62c4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal, Sweeney Street on left, former Main Street bridge in center, hi-res photo (LOC, c 1905).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1905 Source A related resource from which the described resource is derived Library of Congress Description An account of the resource Facing east along the Erie Canal, with Sweeney Street (at present-day Gateway Park) on the left bank. It would seem we are looking at three different bridges in this photo: The near bridge appears to be the "iron bridge" at the foot of NT's Main street depicted on an 1893 map. The same map shows a "covered bridge" at Oliver (where the "jack-knife" train bridge is today) and another "iron bridge" further east, at Vandervoort (there is no bridge there today). Also pictured: Fire Engine House (at least on 1893 map) overhanging the canal, just before the first iron bridge; possible Stevens & McIntyre Wagon Shop beyond; "Merry Go Rounds" signage is visible beyond that. bridge canal carriage horse towpath https://nthistory.com/files/original/ba0a4f489a3e8080d4d8fd1ecac2142a.jpg 42aaaba2579b3e74af17e736dc8982dc Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Swing Bridges Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016)" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/91b.jpg" />Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016) North Swing Bridge (Chutes Bridge) Apr 21 1883 "An act to incorporate the Tonawanda Island Bridge Company, for the purpose of constructing and operating a bridge from Tonawanda island to North Tonawanda [passed]" - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IYJZAAAAYAAJ">Gen Statutes of State of New York.</a> <a href="https://archives.nypl.org/mss/2372#c1061817">Tonawanda Island Bridge Co. Minutes in NYPL</a> (some maps too) TIBC ceased to be with the absorption of subsidiary lines in 1913:  "The [New York Central Railroad Co.] merged with itself, on March 7, 1913, the following named [ten] companies, whose properties had been operated under various leases and agreements and whose entire capital stock was owned by The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company."  There is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonawanda_Island_Railroad">Tonawanda Island Railroad</a> operated from 1983 until a February 12, 1996 emergency order deems the swing bridge its single piece of rolling stock deficient. "While inspecting the bridge on January 2, 1996, Inspector Anderson fell through the bridge due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge timbers." Bridge #7708810. "On June 28, 1965, the entire bridge caught on fire and the creosoted deck planks burned up in a spectacular blaze." (Taylor). This event hurried in the <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/4026">Durkee bridge</a>. South Swing Bridge "March 2, 1885 - Petition was received from A. M. Dodge & Co., asking permission to construct and maintain a swing bridge across Tonawanda Harbor, landing in Erie County to be at or near foot of Clay Street" - Tonawanda News, 1941-11-07. December 18, 1886, Susupension Bridge Journal reports "Engines and cars have been passing over and back on the swing bridge of the N. Y. Central Railroad which spans the Tonawanda Creek." According to a Tonawanda News article, the southern bridge is last used in the 1940s, when the Continental Can company closes. <ul> <li data-start="2511" data-end="2545"> Bridge IDs: B18-A and B18-C. </li> <li data-start="2546" data-end="2594"> Car limits: 120 tons max per coupled cars. </li> <li data-start="2595" data-end="2704"> Engine classes restricted because of weight — lighter switchers only. </li> </ul> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Swing bridge to Tonawanda Island, photo (c.1930).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1930 bridge tonawandaisland https://nthistory.com/files/original/cf9d913973843db2e589bb726bb61782.jpg 60ac1ae346cbec9e6106b29a74410145 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster Street and Erie Canal Bridge, postcard (c1930).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1930 bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/cba178df67c8ad36e968f0221d311c56.jpg b4b6c7dd8dbcd85efdecc71257a74fdb Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Downtown Description An account of the resource Most of North Tonawanda's downtown area developed between 1875 and 1900. In this collection are preserved views of many vanished buildings: The YMCA and City Hall at the southeast corner of Tremont and Main; the 6-story 1891 Smith building (Real Estate Exchange) at the northeast corner of Tremont and Webster, the gothic stone State National Bank at the northwest corner of Sweeney and Webster, and Scanlon's Hall on the southwest corner of the same intersection, to name a few. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster and Bridge, split, postcard (1948).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1948 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/7d2234dfb9156f707ce8fc1f17d4bd7e.jpg 0ad0ee4339e7040c72784fda20216335 https://nthistory.com/files/original/f32475e9bbe7dcb083e3ee45088471cf.jpg 3603f2945ce455183c5557d909014dac Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bridge over Erie Barge Canal dividing Tonawandas, postcard (c1920).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1920 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/22d165a63dfa525839cab0131435488b.jpg 60f5f7402e286a94f4b66bbd9e987144 https://nthistory.com/files/original/d5ea33b8fefc3701a6c7294b8abcdf6a.jpeg 0093a4b2f8145c7bbe7a25b0cda578eb https://nthistory.com/files/original/e0d0b437eac1ec293f57f32e6b1f5924.jpg 3cee29bf8151f199ddd5c45d2ddd3843 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bridge over Erie Barge Canal connecting, postcard (1960).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960 bridge canal downtown topaz webster https://nthistory.com/files/original/fb35c1eabac3aa7ef5abaae0b9513d87.jpg 0ad0ee4339e7040c72784fda20216335 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bridge over Erie Barge Canal, postcard (c.1930).jpg Description An account of the resource Showing First Trust, Tonawanda Power Co., more. Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1930 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/0cd792f62c5ba72bc999a269fa57ca15.jpg a657660c776336eb8ba0b2ab8a23afd8 https://nthistory.com/files/original/2523e0bd0bf30f709886a366f9741638.jpg c6e35815bcb4d12801bc8043941fcaa4 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Martinsville Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="../../../custom/cover/56.jpg" alt="Postcard view looking north up Old Falld Blvd" />Old Falls Boulevard, looking north from Lockport Ave. to Niagara Falls Blvd. Postcard detail, c.1900. The northeast part of North Tonawanda known as "Martinsville" is named after the father of the Protestant Reformation, Martin Luther. It is settled by German Lutheran farmers, beginning around 1843. They settled in narrow farms along the west bank of Tonawanda Creek. As the area developed, a "downtown" emerged along William Street, present-day Old Falls Blvd, near Lockport Rd. (pictured above). The village boasted its own post office, stores and places of entertainment.  Most of Martinsville was incorporated into the then-booming City of North Tonawanda in 1897. The sections of Martinsville east of present-day Old Falls and Niagara Falls boulevards are considered part of Wheatfield. The real estate transaction that brought many of the settlers to the area, its early growth, and the contentious religious devotion of its people are described in <a href="http://www.nthistory.com/items/show/606">History of Niagara County 1821-1878</a>: <blockquote>In 1843 Carl Sack, Erdman Wurl and Fred Grosskopf purchased of William Vandervoote 400 acres, at $15 per acre, on the Tonawanda creek, in the southeast corner of the town, four miles east of Tonawanda village, in what is now known as the village of Martinsville. Lutheran religious antecedents caused the adoption of this name by the disciples of Martin Luther. The original purchase was divided into small lots of three acres and up- ward, as others were able to purchase, to provide for the location of thirty families the first season. They erected ten log houses in the autumn, each of which was occupied by three or four families during the winter and until joint efforts relieved the immigrants by building others. The families remained in Buffalo until the first houses were built, obtaining the best accommodations they could find. Forbidding as the prospect in the beginning must have been, it has been changed to the appearance of prosperity. The church organization is the controlling element in the government of the community, now consisting of one hundred families, connected with the two now existing, the result of divided feeling, but not an abandonment of the Lutheran faith.</blockquote> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal looking South, Martinsville, Buschs Bridge, photo (1914).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1914 bridge canal martinsville https://nthistory.com/files/original/3bf5a6c5444a3a01f426649319ad6b96.jpg b56637725444755d33d22edee3f55950 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Downtown Description An account of the resource Most of North Tonawanda's downtown area developed between 1875 and 1900. In this collection are preserved views of many vanished buildings: The YMCA and City Hall at the southeast corner of Tremont and Main; the 6-story 1891 Smith building (Real Estate Exchange) at the northeast corner of Tremont and Webster, the gothic stone State National Bank at the northwest corner of Sweeney and Webster, and Scanlon's Hall on the southwest corner of the same intersection, to name a few. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster Street, Bridge over Canal, postcard (c1940).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1940 bridge canal webster https://nthistory.com/files/original/b118aa3c277078e58455b56b02bbb8cf.jpg 8ceadc5e02e71227127507f4f94aa194 https://nthistory.com/files/original/f2052b4426ed378ec7cf11ea39f95295.jpeg 7149b2bfda60f49f1e9e8565d09c4e48 https://nthistory.com/files/original/beefdfa23e19379d2f818e6b2b23bb29.jpeg 3cca6b04ec8640e25364bb4adac29e7f https://nthistory.com/files/original/2a3c47977a86942a34d1d13758183d69.jpeg 40419a240c2eebd017c487cfe590ae2f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Lumber Business of the Tonawandas Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/48.jpg" alt="Map of the Lumber District of the Tonawandas, 1893" />In the heyday of the Tonawandas' lumber years, practically every available inch of the Niagara riverfront and Tonawanda Island is covered in lumber (shown as lettered, colored portions in the map above). <a href="http://nthistory.com/items/show/1848">1893 Sanborn Insurance map</a>. In the mid-to-late 19th century, vast forests of Midwest timber are cut, dressed and shipped by water to the exploding towns and cities of the east, largely through the Tonawandas. The villages' advantageous location (between the Great Lakes and the Erie Canal) and the natural harbor afforded by Tonawanda Island make it one of the largest lumber ports in the country by 1890. A lock allows small craft to jump between the Niagara River and the Erie Canal via the non-canalized portion of Tonawanda Creek. Scores of lumber comanies spring up here, and their yards vaccum up almost every available inch of real estate along the Niagara River, Tonawanda Creek, and Tonawanda Island. Docks are built over the water, and millions of feet of lumber stored in great blocks are stacked to the sky. They are brought here largely on lake vessels from Lake Erie, where they are moved onto canal boats by lumbershovers and stevedores and hauled by canal boat captains (along with other goods) to points east. The big business means big money, and conflict between the laborers and employers sometimes turns deadly. Articles in this collection describe the lumbershovers strikes of 1892 and 1893, the first of which resulted in the death of a police officer, and both of which required the National Guard to be deployed. A separate collection, "<a href="http://nthistory.com/collections/show/136">Murder at the Docks</a>," digs into the 1895 double murder of canal boat captain Lorenzo Phillips and his son Charles as the captain attempted to haul a load of lumber from P. W. Scribner's Tonawanda dock in defiance of a boatmen's union agreement. As the forests of the midwest were depleted and shipping routes and technology changed, the lumber heyday of the Tonawandas receded into the past. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Lumber District, postcard (1919).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1919 Description An account of the resource A view from the southern portion of a lumber-bedecked Tonawanda Island across the "Little (Niagara) River" onto a lumber-bedecked North Tonawanda. boat bridge collection lumber river swingbridge tonawandaisland https://nthistory.com/files/original/be5fecefd4fe5f933f1d42b29bc63ae4.jpg 4ffca5c2eb3c7244507239de1725421f Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Swing Bridges Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016)" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/91b.jpg" />Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016) North Swing Bridge (Chutes Bridge) Apr 21 1883 "An act to incorporate the Tonawanda Island Bridge Company, for the purpose of constructing and operating a bridge from Tonawanda island to North Tonawanda [passed]" - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IYJZAAAAYAAJ">Gen Statutes of State of New York.</a> <a href="https://archives.nypl.org/mss/2372#c1061817">Tonawanda Island Bridge Co. Minutes in NYPL</a> (some maps too) TIBC ceased to be with the absorption of subsidiary lines in 1913:  "The [New York Central Railroad Co.] merged with itself, on March 7, 1913, the following named [ten] companies, whose properties had been operated under various leases and agreements and whose entire capital stock was owned by The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company."  There is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonawanda_Island_Railroad">Tonawanda Island Railroad</a> operated from 1983 until a February 12, 1996 emergency order deems the swing bridge its single piece of rolling stock deficient. "While inspecting the bridge on January 2, 1996, Inspector Anderson fell through the bridge due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge timbers." Bridge #7708810. "On June 28, 1965, the entire bridge caught on fire and the creosoted deck planks burned up in a spectacular blaze." (Taylor). This event hurried in the <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/4026">Durkee bridge</a>. South Swing Bridge "March 2, 1885 - Petition was received from A. M. Dodge & Co., asking permission to construct and maintain a swing bridge across Tonawanda Harbor, landing in Erie County to be at or near foot of Clay Street" - Tonawanda News, 1941-11-07. December 18, 1886, Susupension Bridge Journal reports "Engines and cars have been passing over and back on the swing bridge of the N. Y. Central Railroad which spans the Tonawanda Creek." According to a Tonawanda News article, the southern bridge is last used in the 1940s, when the Continental Can company closes. <ul> <li data-start="2511" data-end="2545"> Bridge IDs: B18-A and B18-C. </li> <li data-start="2546" data-end="2594"> Car limits: 120 tons max per coupled cars. </li> <li data-start="2595" data-end="2704"> Engine classes restricted because of weight — lighter switchers only. </li> </ul> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Swing bridge with train, photo from article (Tonawanda News, 1961-02-08).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1961-02-08 bridge tonawandaisland train https://nthistory.com/files/original/cd20abb8fe24de2761541ef5c8159441.jpg 359f378624ba183a124e38ccc1ed5e11 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Swing Bridges Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016)" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/91b.jpg" />Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016) North Swing Bridge (Chutes Bridge) Apr 21 1883 "An act to incorporate the Tonawanda Island Bridge Company, for the purpose of constructing and operating a bridge from Tonawanda island to North Tonawanda [passed]" - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IYJZAAAAYAAJ">Gen Statutes of State of New York.</a> <a href="https://archives.nypl.org/mss/2372#c1061817">Tonawanda Island Bridge Co. Minutes in NYPL</a> (some maps too) TIBC ceased to be with the absorption of subsidiary lines in 1913:  "The [New York Central Railroad Co.] merged with itself, on March 7, 1913, the following named [ten] companies, whose properties had been operated under various leases and agreements and whose entire capital stock was owned by The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company."  There is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonawanda_Island_Railroad">Tonawanda Island Railroad</a> operated from 1983 until a February 12, 1996 emergency order deems the swing bridge its single piece of rolling stock deficient. "While inspecting the bridge on January 2, 1996, Inspector Anderson fell through the bridge due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge timbers." Bridge #7708810. "On June 28, 1965, the entire bridge caught on fire and the creosoted deck planks burned up in a spectacular blaze." (Taylor). This event hurried in the <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/4026">Durkee bridge</a>. South Swing Bridge "March 2, 1885 - Petition was received from A. M. Dodge & Co., asking permission to construct and maintain a swing bridge across Tonawanda Harbor, landing in Erie County to be at or near foot of Clay Street" - Tonawanda News, 1941-11-07. December 18, 1886, Susupension Bridge Journal reports "Engines and cars have been passing over and back on the swing bridge of the N. Y. Central Railroad which spans the Tonawanda Creek." According to a Tonawanda News article, the southern bridge is last used in the 1940s, when the Continental Can company closes. <ul> <li data-start="2511" data-end="2545"> Bridge IDs: B18-A and B18-C. </li> <li data-start="2546" data-end="2594"> Car limits: 120 tons max per coupled cars. </li> <li data-start="2595" data-end="2704"> Engine classes restricted because of weight — lighter switchers only. </li> </ul> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource No More Swinging, swing bridge controls, photo (Tonawanda News, 1972-05-05).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1972-05-05 bridge tonawandaisland https://nthistory.com/files/original/6174342d8671ffe98b05e317db089d0c.jpg 465c5e04ee6344c671c3747428f60353 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Swing Bridges Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016)" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/91b.jpg" />Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016) North Swing Bridge (Chutes Bridge) Apr 21 1883 "An act to incorporate the Tonawanda Island Bridge Company, for the purpose of constructing and operating a bridge from Tonawanda island to North Tonawanda [passed]" - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IYJZAAAAYAAJ">Gen Statutes of State of New York.</a> <a href="https://archives.nypl.org/mss/2372#c1061817">Tonawanda Island Bridge Co. Minutes in NYPL</a> (some maps too) TIBC ceased to be with the absorption of subsidiary lines in 1913:  "The [New York Central Railroad Co.] merged with itself, on March 7, 1913, the following named [ten] companies, whose properties had been operated under various leases and agreements and whose entire capital stock was owned by The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company."  There is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonawanda_Island_Railroad">Tonawanda Island Railroad</a> operated from 1983 until a February 12, 1996 emergency order deems the swing bridge its single piece of rolling stock deficient. "While inspecting the bridge on January 2, 1996, Inspector Anderson fell through the bridge due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge timbers." Bridge #7708810. "On June 28, 1965, the entire bridge caught on fire and the creosoted deck planks burned up in a spectacular blaze." (Taylor). This event hurried in the <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/4026">Durkee bridge</a>. South Swing Bridge "March 2, 1885 - Petition was received from A. M. Dodge & Co., asking permission to construct and maintain a swing bridge across Tonawanda Harbor, landing in Erie County to be at or near foot of Clay Street" - Tonawanda News, 1941-11-07. December 18, 1886, Susupension Bridge Journal reports "Engines and cars have been passing over and back on the swing bridge of the N. Y. Central Railroad which spans the Tonawanda Creek." According to a Tonawanda News article, the southern bridge is last used in the 1940s, when the Continental Can company closes. <ul> <li data-start="2511" data-end="2545"> Bridge IDs: B18-A and B18-C. </li> <li data-start="2546" data-end="2594"> Car limits: 120 tons max per coupled cars. </li> <li data-start="2595" data-end="2704"> Engine classes restricted because of weight — lighter switchers only. </li> </ul> Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Landmark Bridge Removal Is Slated, photo article (Tonawanda News, 1973-07-19).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1973-07-19 bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/79935116f47faf6800c2e254f7243e5e.jpg 52106df2bb171b0b8281c8ba5c2234db Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource The Swing Bridges Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" alt="Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016)" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/91b.jpg" />Both swing bridges in one photo. North (“Chutes”) bridge in the foreground. South swing bridge visible in the distance at the entrance to the Erie Canal. Photo: Dennis Reed Jr (2016) North Swing Bridge (Chutes Bridge) Apr 21 1883 "An act to incorporate the Tonawanda Island Bridge Company, for the purpose of constructing and operating a bridge from Tonawanda island to North Tonawanda [passed]" - <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=IYJZAAAAYAAJ">Gen Statutes of State of New York.</a> <a href="https://archives.nypl.org/mss/2372#c1061817">Tonawanda Island Bridge Co. Minutes in NYPL</a> (some maps too) TIBC ceased to be with the absorption of subsidiary lines in 1913:  "The [New York Central Railroad Co.] merged with itself, on March 7, 1913, the following named [ten] companies, whose properties had been operated under various leases and agreements and whose entire capital stock was owned by The New York Central and Hudson River Railroad Company."  There is a <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tonawanda_Island_Railroad">Tonawanda Island Railroad</a> operated from 1983 until a February 12, 1996 emergency order deems the swing bridge its single piece of rolling stock deficient. "While inspecting the bridge on January 2, 1996, Inspector Anderson fell through the bridge due to the deteriorated condition of the bridge timbers." Bridge #7708810. "On June 28, 1965, the entire bridge caught on fire and the creosoted deck planks burned up in a spectacular blaze." (Taylor). This event hurried in the <a href="https://nthistory.com/items/show/4026">Durkee bridge</a>. South Swing Bridge "March 2, 1885 - Petition was received from A. M. Dodge & Co., asking permission to construct and maintain a swing bridge across Tonawanda Harbor, landing in Erie County to be at or near foot of Clay Street" - Tonawanda News, 1941-11-07. December 18, 1886, Susupension Bridge Journal reports "Engines and cars have been passing over and back on the swing bridge of the N. Y. Central Railroad which spans the Tonawanda Creek." According to a Tonawanda News article, the southern bridge is last used in the 1940s, when the Continental Can company closes. <ul> <li data-start="2511" data-end="2545"> Bridge IDs: B18-A and B18-C. </li> <li data-start="2546" data-end="2594"> Car limits: 120 tons max per coupled cars. </li> <li data-start="2595" data-end="2704"> Engine classes restricted because of weight — lighter switchers only. </li> </ul> Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Big Jump, Big Splash, photo (Tonawanda News, 1971-06-24).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1971-06-24 bridge recreation https://nthistory.com/files/original/b0c4a2d5f7510eeb6b17ed331037d9a6.jpg 6435890017cfe991241bf439918b2876 https://nthistory.com/files/original/4ba05d29545073c72447fed0eb21eb0d.jpg 123252dba93b0aa25e8096a55b424afb Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Barge Canal, postcard (c1960).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960 bridge canal creek https://nthistory.com/files/original/9a02dafe36c68e16b5f3113be797536f.jpg 888696bd9493f7e3bcda177389490c38 Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Delaware street bridge 2 (c1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/bf26e20b6eda00fc3d2e231728bac720.jpg ef176c55766f6a5aba6740a22531388f Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Delaware street bridge, maybe Elks Club (c1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/549ca49c3c2c541f9740b89f94fc00bf.jpg 9c73d711cbd528105a5160d2213bfbae Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Delaware street bridge (c1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/53f9bec7f483151a1639a0640acc8644.jpg 356da93ea1914892cd2b2b5f43a932e1 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge with miscreants about (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/172378b69459bfe61bd00b2058f77a89.jpg c28e7f831f42c680f3ca0fa3d3bcf90e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge watch tower in winter (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/a12b50fdcc35f47d8b7f302e0c7952b6.jpg ad13c4f2b3ab5b61190e1ba59e038a22 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge demolition, open with (hopefully) workers atop, hi-res photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/a471af3065f7bd3cad6ee3ec6d6e579f.jpg 228cba1f9a2ab6b9e3f74dfb8edaee6e Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge open, Marine Midland clock, hi-res photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/72bb838f0ee15717b67925e353461666.jpg 76b543056acf6bd4ad151a93dae85b31 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge in winter, Niagara First Savings (c1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/f263c7c457decdaadb324df2e013b826.jpg 61130f9ed283333cfb67b7281013dd49 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge from Tonawanda (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/4f41e8b3bbc34bc46e23d17a0d20004d.jpg 91db55b21ae28c872a0667d3e20fa14c Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge demolition, hi-res photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/a08fb29fae77d61832cd28afbd0afb38.jpg f24e7aa593934086eecaaea25ebe41c3 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge demolition, photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/45bdc76b1c660f5d9cfb8afd0646fe4b.jpg 2083710e6566a7c38adf25ad31ab1031 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge demolition, Main street approach, hi-res photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/77fd26b55d3060092039239028eddb5d.jpg 584fa35ac2ca767895a0f89f4fd26b40 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge demolition, hi-res photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/44c91b378b7ab73de2971a4338bc793d.jpg 5d75044574b611b7300dec52f7aeef09 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge demolition, hi-res photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/57e482b96689cd6d34cfe887fd495c51.jpg 9b24ee69cb5136dfee2aa92a455c7346 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge across the Erie Canal in winter (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/52a3be7fed8a493653ff11adf4738878.jpg f39ed3d692bcb91acf83848ebb835c33 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge, North Tonawanda side (c1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/6dcd45e2b3b27ee1e8de06074db50389.jpg 826e960d864c6e5bc20c342232634a0b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bascule bridge, Bethlehem Steel Bridge Co. plate, photo (1978).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1978 bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/0c765b4176fb0fd6c1339770e2006b8c.jpg d1171ded2f64512986438250c5990ca0 https://nthistory.com/files/original/e67a5c1105c6634fbc5efa8bbadc0b40.jpg 123252dba93b0aa25e8096a55b424afb Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Webster to Main Street Bridges Description An account of the resource ? - 1916: The Long Bridge - Engineers were already discussing the replacement of the Long Bridge when weeks of heavy spring flooding and a collision with an out-of-control scow compromise the middle support pier on the evening of March 28th, 1916. Around 10 p.m. that evening, bridge pedestrians hear a great crash and feel vibrations. "Several of the women on the structure became so weak from fright they had to be assisted from the bridge by their escorts" (Tonawanda News, March 29, 1916). The police quickly close the bridge traffic. But the worst is not over. The bridge begins slowly sinking into the creek and is soon impassable. The New York Telephone Company (whose main cable crossed the bridge) warns connectivity between the halves of the Niagara Frontier might be cut off. More canal boats are carried by the current over the dam and into the bridges, as is the body of a North Tonawanda schoolteacher, Miss Mary Hill, who was missing since January. It is presumed a suicide, though "no cause has been assigned for her act" (Ibid). 1920-1978: The bascule (lift) bridge - The replacement bridge was engineered to open and let masted boats to pass on the south side. According to a plaque on the site, it was built by the Bethlehem Steel Bridge Corporation. The <a href="https://www.eriecanal.org/texts/Whitford/1921/chap32.html">Whitford book on eriecanal.org</a> gives the following contract information: <table> <tbody> <tr> <td>Contract No.</td> <td>Work</td> <td>Contractor</td> <td>Date</td> <td>Cost</td> </tr> <tr> <td>147</td> <td>Bascule bridge, Main and Webster Sts., Tonawanda</td> <td>Lathrop, Shea & Henwood Co.</td> <td>9/10/17</td> <td>$254,019</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> This collection features photos of the bascule bridge in its heyday, as well as a black-and-white series depicting its 1978 demolition, and the rerouting of the Main and Young street approaches. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource View of Barge Canal, Bascule bridge, Tonawanda Board and Paper co., postcard (c1960).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1960 boat bridge canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/efb14870a03b8078ed89fb4fece3bb7f.jpg e99dc9595d746cc4b457452ded6aa68e Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Ellicott Park and bridge, photo (c1980).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1980 boat bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/829ad5a6d146fb2a5aa4c63243b3dc9c.jpg 58d991e7765d3962f7b7e5e92b8c5011 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Railroad Bridge over canal at Vandervoort Description An account of the resource The Erie Bridge at Vandervoort carried Erie Railroad trains, electric streetcars--and apparently courageous pedestrians across the Tonawanda Creek and Erie Canal. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Bridge, Tonawanda, postcard (1916).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1916 Description An account of the resource This bridge no longer exists; it carried the former Erie RR across Tonawanda Creek at the foot of Vandervoort Street. Heading northwest, the railroad line continued to just east of the present-day Railroad Museum, along East Oliver Street, and across Oliver Street. bridge railroad https://nthistory.com/files/original/90f6f12eb3271812f61d840a7e6b67bb.png 24484a73119e82dfde0f434cb4567959 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Downtown Description An account of the resource Most of North Tonawanda's downtown area developed between 1875 and 1900. In this collection are preserved views of many vanished buildings: The YMCA and City Hall at the southeast corner of Tremont and Main; the 6-story 1891 Smith building (Real Estate Exchange) at the northeast corner of Tremont and Webster, the gothic stone State National Bank at the northwest corner of Sweeney and Webster, and Scanlon's Hall on the southwest corner of the same intersection, to name a few. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Tonawandas Newest Civic Center, photos and article (Ton News 1924).png Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1924 Description An account of the resource Abandonment of Erie Canal from Ellicott Creek, removal of train tracks from Webster in NT and Main in Tonawanda, automobiles. Also view of Van Raalte Silk Mill, First Trust bank, Sweeney Building. bridge https://nthistory.com/files/original/ecdccf768f590ea5900ecdd52732fc6d.jpg 4ee3616b9fb2c8ab31879f38706c5ae2 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Lumber Business of the Tonawandas Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/48.jpg" alt="Map of the Lumber District of the Tonawandas, 1893" />In the heyday of the Tonawandas' lumber years, practically every available inch of the Niagara riverfront and Tonawanda Island is covered in lumber (shown as lettered, colored portions in the map above). <a href="http://nthistory.com/items/show/1848">1893 Sanborn Insurance map</a>. In the mid-to-late 19th century, vast forests of Midwest timber are cut, dressed and shipped by water to the exploding towns and cities of the east, largely through the Tonawandas. The villages' advantageous location (between the Great Lakes and the Erie Canal) and the natural harbor afforded by Tonawanda Island make it one of the largest lumber ports in the country by 1890. A lock allows small craft to jump between the Niagara River and the Erie Canal via the non-canalized portion of Tonawanda Creek. Scores of lumber comanies spring up here, and their yards vaccum up almost every available inch of real estate along the Niagara River, Tonawanda Creek, and Tonawanda Island. Docks are built over the water, and millions of feet of lumber stored in great blocks are stacked to the sky. They are brought here largely on lake vessels from Lake Erie, where they are moved onto canal boats by lumbershovers and stevedores and hauled by canal boat captains (along with other goods) to points east. The big business means big money, and conflict between the laborers and employers sometimes turns deadly. Articles in this collection describe the lumbershovers strikes of 1892 and 1893, the first of which resulted in the death of a police officer, and both of which required the National Guard to be deployed. A separate collection, "<a href="http://nthistory.com/collections/show/136">Murder at the Docks</a>," digs into the 1895 double murder of canal boat captain Lorenzo Phillips and his son Charles as the captain attempted to haul a load of lumber from P. W. Scribner's Tonawanda dock in defiance of a boatmen's union agreement. As the forests of the midwest were depleted and shipping routes and technology changed, the lumber heyday of the Tonawandas receded into the past. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Harbor Scene, postcard (c1900).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1900-01 boat bridge lumber https://nthistory.com/files/original/90fe501fe62479c4b18d366ddcf49ba5.jpg 9e1bbe27e137743e376119390f6e5d76 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Lumber Business of the Tonawandas Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/48.jpg" alt="Map of the Lumber District of the Tonawandas, 1893" />In the heyday of the Tonawandas' lumber years, practically every available inch of the Niagara riverfront and Tonawanda Island is covered in lumber (shown as lettered, colored portions in the map above). <a href="http://nthistory.com/items/show/1848">1893 Sanborn Insurance map</a>. In the mid-to-late 19th century, vast forests of Midwest timber are cut, dressed and shipped by water to the exploding towns and cities of the east, largely through the Tonawandas. The villages' advantageous location (between the Great Lakes and the Erie Canal) and the natural harbor afforded by Tonawanda Island make it one of the largest lumber ports in the country by 1890. A lock allows small craft to jump between the Niagara River and the Erie Canal via the non-canalized portion of Tonawanda Creek. Scores of lumber comanies spring up here, and their yards vaccum up almost every available inch of real estate along the Niagara River, Tonawanda Creek, and Tonawanda Island. Docks are built over the water, and millions of feet of lumber stored in great blocks are stacked to the sky. They are brought here largely on lake vessels from Lake Erie, where they are moved onto canal boats by lumbershovers and stevedores and hauled by canal boat captains (along with other goods) to points east. The big business means big money, and conflict between the laborers and employers sometimes turns deadly. Articles in this collection describe the lumbershovers strikes of 1892 and 1893, the first of which resulted in the death of a police officer, and both of which required the National Guard to be deployed. A separate collection, "<a href="http://nthistory.com/collections/show/136">Murder at the Docks</a>," digs into the 1895 double murder of canal boat captain Lorenzo Phillips and his son Charles as the captain attempted to haul a load of lumber from P. W. Scribner's Tonawanda dock in defiance of a boatmen's union agreement. As the forests of the midwest were depleted and shipping routes and technology changed, the lumber heyday of the Tonawandas receded into the past. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Harbor Scene, postcard (1906).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1906 boat bridge lumber https://nthistory.com/files/original/e65dd63fcc32ad4b966cbfdb521de998.jpg 089bc255d6e66b68c2f47c1efc9fd4b5 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Goose Island (Tonawanda) Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/26.jpg" alt="Goose Island as seen from Tonawanda Island, postcard detail, ca 1913" />Goose Island as seen from Tonawanda Island, postcard detail, ca 1913. "Goose Island" was the name of a triangular piece of land in Tonawanda formerly cut off from the mainland by the Erie Canal. The island was first settled by Tonawanda's well-to-do, its shady trees giving "Chestnut Street" its name. It had a cemetery (whose graves were moved to Sweeney Cemetery) and a schoolhouse. As the lumber industry picked up in the 1860s, the character of the island changed dramatically, and it would soon be known all over the country by canawlers and sailors as a "red-light" district. The canal from Tonawanda to Buffalo is filled in around 1927, effectively reconnecting the recalcitrant island to its parent. In 1966 the remaining buildings that housed the old saloons, bordellos and dwellings were razed as part of broader "Urban Renewal" efforts. Today, the only trace of old Goose Island is the old path of Chestnut Street, which is followed by the north edge of Tops parking lot and the southern part of Niagara Shore Drive. 1937 Coppola indictment dismissed. 1951 several of the old buildings, slated for demolition anyway by the State Housing Commission as part of their postwar plan, <a href="https://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252011%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2520-%25201604.pdf%23xml%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FdtSearch%2Fdtisapi6.dll%3Fcmd%3Dgetpdfhits%26u%3Dffffffffffbb5d89%26DocId%3D2065199%26Index%3DZ%253a%255cDISK%2520U%26HitCount%3D19%26hits%3D49%2B4a%2B90%2B91%2B1a8%2B2c7%2B395%2B3cc%2B409%2B422%2B42a%2B458%2B627%2B744%2Bfee%2B1119%2B115a%2B115f%2B1166%2B%26SearchForm%3D%252fFulton%255fform%252ehtml%26.pdf&uri=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252011%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2520-%25201604.pdf&xml=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FdtSearch%2Fdtisapi6.dll%3Fcmd%3Dgetpdfhits%26u%3Dffffffffffbb5d89%26DocId%3D2065199%26Index%3DZ%253a%255cDISK%2520U%26HitCount%3D19%26hits%3D49%2B4a%2B90%2B91%2B1a8%2B2c7%2B395%2B3cc%2B409%2B422%2B42a%2B458%2B627%2B744%2Bfee%2B1119%2B115a%2B115f%2B1166%2B%26SearchForm%3D%252fFulton%255fform%252ehtml%26.pdf&openFirstHlPage=false">are set on fire</a> by an arson.  A 1923 article claims an 1886 fire "totally destroyed" Goose Island. First mention 1897 (Frank Alliger's novelty concern) Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Harbor, Goose Island, postcard (1913).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1913 boat bridge horse labor lumber https://nthistory.com/files/original/1e735f5cb8ca4206c6bdad938f9f7ac7.png eb02b03709e0ab9e2cb25f357f06d877 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Lumber Business of the Tonawandas Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/48.jpg" alt="Map of the Lumber District of the Tonawandas, 1893" />In the heyday of the Tonawandas' lumber years, practically every available inch of the Niagara riverfront and Tonawanda Island is covered in lumber (shown as lettered, colored portions in the map above). <a href="http://nthistory.com/items/show/1848">1893 Sanborn Insurance map</a>. In the mid-to-late 19th century, vast forests of Midwest timber are cut, dressed and shipped by water to the exploding towns and cities of the east, largely through the Tonawandas. The villages' advantageous location (between the Great Lakes and the Erie Canal) and the natural harbor afforded by Tonawanda Island make it one of the largest lumber ports in the country by 1890. A lock allows small craft to jump between the Niagara River and the Erie Canal via the non-canalized portion of Tonawanda Creek. Scores of lumber comanies spring up here, and their yards vaccum up almost every available inch of real estate along the Niagara River, Tonawanda Creek, and Tonawanda Island. Docks are built over the water, and millions of feet of lumber stored in great blocks are stacked to the sky. They are brought here largely on lake vessels from Lake Erie, where they are moved onto canal boats by lumbershovers and stevedores and hauled by canal boat captains (along with other goods) to points east. The big business means big money, and conflict between the laborers and employers sometimes turns deadly. Articles in this collection describe the lumbershovers strikes of 1892 and 1893, the first of which resulted in the death of a police officer, and both of which required the National Guard to be deployed. A separate collection, "<a href="http://nthistory.com/collections/show/136">Murder at the Docks</a>," digs into the 1895 double murder of canal boat captain Lorenzo Phillips and his son Charles as the captain attempted to haul a load of lumber from P. W. Scribner's Tonawanda dock in defiance of a boatmen's union agreement. As the forests of the midwest were depleted and shipping routes and technology changed, the lumber heyday of the Tonawandas receded into the past. Letters and Letterhead Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Eastern Lumber Company letterhead, detail (1899).png Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1899 boat bridge lumber https://nthistory.com/files/original/1131ec86862e94ba1ee62d9e17757a70.png 09310af8977f88115e74905448be26c8 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Lumber Business of the Tonawandas Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/48.jpg" alt="Map of the Lumber District of the Tonawandas, 1893" />In the heyday of the Tonawandas' lumber years, practically every available inch of the Niagara riverfront and Tonawanda Island is covered in lumber (shown as lettered, colored portions in the map above). <a href="http://nthistory.com/items/show/1848">1893 Sanborn Insurance map</a>. In the mid-to-late 19th century, vast forests of Midwest timber are cut, dressed and shipped by water to the exploding towns and cities of the east, largely through the Tonawandas. The villages' advantageous location (between the Great Lakes and the Erie Canal) and the natural harbor afforded by Tonawanda Island make it one of the largest lumber ports in the country by 1890. A lock allows small craft to jump between the Niagara River and the Erie Canal via the non-canalized portion of Tonawanda Creek. Scores of lumber comanies spring up here, and their yards vaccum up almost every available inch of real estate along the Niagara River, Tonawanda Creek, and Tonawanda Island. Docks are built over the water, and millions of feet of lumber stored in great blocks are stacked to the sky. They are brought here largely on lake vessels from Lake Erie, where they are moved onto canal boats by lumbershovers and stevedores and hauled by canal boat captains (along with other goods) to points east. The big business means big money, and conflict between the laborers and employers sometimes turns deadly. Articles in this collection describe the lumbershovers strikes of 1892 and 1893, the first of which resulted in the death of a police officer, and both of which required the National Guard to be deployed. A separate collection, "<a href="http://nthistory.com/collections/show/136">Murder at the Docks</a>," digs into the 1895 double murder of canal boat captain Lorenzo Phillips and his son Charles as the captain attempted to haul a load of lumber from P. W. Scribner's Tonawanda dock in defiance of a boatmen's union agreement. As the forests of the midwest were depleted and shipping routes and technology changed, the lumber heyday of the Tonawandas receded into the past. Letters and Letterhead Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Eastern Lumber Company, letterhead (1899).png Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1899 boat bridge lumber https://nthistory.com/files/original/3050418546c1a4d2ad2789e53cca3936.jpg f70ab07b7d80f4850519be7e979e842d https://nthistory.com/files/original/d2e77cb0e23fbf9d790fd3de7db3b761.jpg 856a9b8e556068057bc6ee7eedd41465 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Goose Island (Tonawanda) Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/26.jpg" alt="Goose Island as seen from Tonawanda Island, postcard detail, ca 1913" />Goose Island as seen from Tonawanda Island, postcard detail, ca 1913. "Goose Island" was the name of a triangular piece of land in Tonawanda formerly cut off from the mainland by the Erie Canal. The island was first settled by Tonawanda's well-to-do, its shady trees giving "Chestnut Street" its name. It had a cemetery (whose graves were moved to Sweeney Cemetery) and a schoolhouse. As the lumber industry picked up in the 1860s, the character of the island changed dramatically, and it would soon be known all over the country by canawlers and sailors as a "red-light" district. The canal from Tonawanda to Buffalo is filled in around 1927, effectively reconnecting the recalcitrant island to its parent. In 1966 the remaining buildings that housed the old saloons, bordellos and dwellings were razed as part of broader "Urban Renewal" efforts. Today, the only trace of old Goose Island is the old path of Chestnut Street, which is followed by the north edge of Tops parking lot and the southern part of Niagara Shore Drive. 1937 Coppola indictment dismissed. 1951 several of the old buildings, slated for demolition anyway by the State Housing Commission as part of their postwar plan, <a href="https://fultonhistory.com/highlighter/highlight-for-xml?altUrl=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252011%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2520-%25201604.pdf%23xml%3Dhttps%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FdtSearch%2Fdtisapi6.dll%3Fcmd%3Dgetpdfhits%26u%3Dffffffffffbb5d89%26DocId%3D2065199%26Index%3DZ%253a%255cDISK%2520U%26HitCount%3D19%26hits%3D49%2B4a%2B90%2B91%2B1a8%2B2c7%2B395%2B3cc%2B409%2B422%2B42a%2B458%2B627%2B744%2Bfee%2B1119%2B115a%2B115f%2B1166%2B%26SearchForm%3D%252fFulton%255fform%252ehtml%26.pdf&uri=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FNewspaper%252011%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2FNorth%2520Tonawanda%2520NY%2520Evening%2520News%25201951%2520%2520Grayscale%2520-%25201604.pdf&xml=https%3A%2F%2Ffultonhistory.com%2FdtSearch%2Fdtisapi6.dll%3Fcmd%3Dgetpdfhits%26u%3Dffffffffffbb5d89%26DocId%3D2065199%26Index%3DZ%253a%255cDISK%2520U%26HitCount%3D19%26hits%3D49%2B4a%2B90%2B91%2B1a8%2B2c7%2B395%2B3cc%2B409%2B422%2B42a%2B458%2B627%2B744%2Bfee%2B1119%2B115a%2B115f%2B1166%2B%26SearchForm%3D%252fFulton%255fform%252ehtml%26.pdf&openFirstHlPage=false">are set on fire</a> by an arson.  A 1923 article claims an 1886 fire "totally destroyed" Goose Island. First mention 1897 (Frank Alliger's novelty concern) Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Birds-eye view of some of the dockage, postcard (1908).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1908 Description An account of the resource Manhattan Street is in the foreground. Just beyond is some of that famous lumber (Dodge & Bliss and J. W Scribner are two firms who stacked it here), and the swing bridge connecting to North Tonawanda to Tonawanda's "Goose Island." The little buildings at mid-left appear to be the <a href="http://www.nthistory.com/items/show/993">bordellos and saloons</a> that lined Tonawanda Street; the larger structures to the right are the Tonawanda Board and Paper Co.; on the far right of the postcard is the southern tip of Tonawanda Island. boat bridge gooseisland lumber https://nthistory.com/files/original/bb56b1ab5145f7689b67b960d9fbee80.jpg d98d976c608bc094ba02076f210b28d9 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Tonawanda & Wheatfield Electric Co., Tonawanda Power Co., National Grid Description An account of the resource <img class="cover" src="http://www.nthistory.com/custom/cover/37.jpg" alt="National Grid transformer station in 2023. Photo by Dennis Reed Jr." /> The Robinson Street "transformer building" is built by the Niagara Falls Power Company in 1895 as part of their unprecedented 23-mile transmission sending current from Nigara Falls to Buffalo. The building is later operated by the Tonawanda Power Company, who distribute the hyrdo-electricity locally. Today the historic building is owned by National Grid. Photo by Dennis Reed Jr., 2023. <h2>Motive power before the grid</h2> In the 1800s, in North Tonawanda and elsewhere, mills are powered primarily by waterwheels, while factories rely on stationary steam engines fueled by coal or wood to drive machinery and reduce human and animal labor. Beginning in the 1870s, electric dynamos appear, typically driven by steam engines, producing electricity mainly for lighting. There is no interconnected electrical grid. Electricity is generated locally, on site, by individual factories, private companies, or municipalities for their own use or a limited number of nearby customers. <h2>Tonawanda & Wheatfield Electric Light Company first located on Tonawanda Island</h2> In 1889, the Tonawanda & Wheatfield Electric Light Company operates a dynamo on the north end of Tonawanda Island. The dynamo is fed by wood shavings from the Doebler Planing Mill. The company supplies electricity to a small number of North Tonawanda subscribers. Arc lights on a few streets are run. Their office is at the northeast corner of Main and Goundry in an old frame building. <a href="http://nthistory.com/items/show/3942">1891 Buffalo Express Pictorial</a>: "The Tonawanda and Wheatfield Electric Co. are now building a $40,000 plant near the north end, to furnish power for an electric street railroad. These facilities, with a telephone service and telegraph office, leave but little to be desired. The docked frontage on the property is now nearly two miles in length. The Tonawanda City Water Works, located on the west side of the island, are fully described elsewhere." The Niagara Falls Power Company builds transmission line and transformer house at Robinson Street Meanwhile, electrical experts at the Niagara Falls Power Company and others have been convening for a few years about how to best harness Niagara Falls's tremendous kinetic energy for the electrical age, and what to do with all that energy, which would be far more than could be used locally. The answer: send it to the much larger city of Buffalo, 23 miles south.  In late 1895, the Niagara Falls Power Company begins building an unprecedented long-distance power line to Buffalo (mostly along the boundary of the old Mile Reserve). "This transmission line will run over a private right of way from the Niagara Falls Power Company's station at Niagara Falls to Tonawanda, and thence down one bank of the Erie Canal to Buffalo. The entire line will be fenced in" (<a href="https://reference.insulators.info/publications/view/?id=205&h0=tonawanda">Electrical Review</a>, August 5, 1896). It is operational by November 1896. (Amazing <a href="https://digital.hagley.org/AVD_1990_265">images of line construction</a> from Hagley Archives). The long distance line uses alternating current (AC) transmitted at high voltages, which could travel long distances with minimal loss. A ‘transformer house’ like the one established on Robinson street would step down (transform) some of the high voltage lines to more manageable and safer levels for local distribution. Other lines passing through this North Tonawanda substation continued at high voltage to Buffalo and Lockport, to be stepped down at other transformer houses before being used locally.  Tonawanda Lighting and Power Company incorporated Landmarks of Niagara County: "The Tonawanda Lighting and Power Company was incorporated February 23, 1897, with a capital of $150,000, and is the successor of the Tonawanda and Wheatfield Electric Light Company, which was organized in 1890 The company supplies both Tonawanda and North Tonawanda, and operates in all about 290 arc and 2,400 incandescent lamps. Frank M. Gordon is local manager." They will step down power for local distribution in a yard north of the Niagara Falls Power Company's Robinson Street transformer house.  1900: "At Tonawanda, 10 miles from Buffalo and 14 miles from Niagara Falls, the transmission line from the falls to Buffalo is tapped and power from it is transformed, converted and regenerated into the various kinds and voltages of current desired tor traction, arc and incandescent lighting and distribution to motors. There is no electrical generating plant driven by steam power in Tonawanda or North Tonawanda either for street railway or central station loads. The work at Tonawanda is carried on by the Tonawanda Power Company, which is closely allied financially with the other Niagara power interests, such as the Niagara Palls Power Company and the Cataract Power and Conduit Company. The Tonawanda Power Company consists of the consolidation of the Tonawanda Light and Power Company, which formerly operated a steam-driven central station of the usual type in Tonawanda, and the Tonawanda Cataract Power Company, which previous to the consolidation was formed for advancing the Niagara power interests in Tonawanda. The consolidated company has erected a transforming station immediatey beside the right of way of the transmission line at a convenient point in North Tonawanda about a mile east of the business center and just a short distance south of the branch of the Erie running to Lockport, which branch is operated by electric power from this transforming station." Former switching tower Where the new pocket park is now, on the Twin City Highway side, was once a two-story “switching tower” which was wired to the transformer house. Added around 1902, this adjunct tower was actually owned by the Niagara Falls Power company. It helped engineers manage and troubleshoot defects in the multiplying lines. Most of the high voltage lines carrying electricity from the massive turbines at Niagara Falls ran into this tower. In 1920, a horrific explosion kills 13 men early Halloween morning (read our blog post, <a href="https://www.nthistory.com/articles/tonawanda-power-company-disaster/">The Tonawanda Power Company Disaster</a>). An NT fire chief <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Safety_Maintenance_Production/Njw6AQAAMAAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=Superintendent+Albert+S.+Allen+tonawanda&pg=PA221&printsec=frontcover">alleges the work was rushed</a> in Safety News and Comment. The January 1921 Safety Bulletin <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/Safety_Bulletin/XwkUAAAAIAAJ?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=tonawanda+power+substation+tower&pg=RA24-PA2&printsec=frontcover">provides more context and details</a> (a storm and wind outside) and a photo of the ruined second floor of the switching tower. <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/State_of_New_York_Supreme_Court_Appellat/-NBRpQpR-lwC?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=tonawanda+power+substation+tower&pg=RA3-PA17&printsec=frontcover">Rose Derby's suit</a>. Superintendent Frank S. Wahl's (and others!) testimony in <a href="https://www.google.com/books/edition/New_York_Court_of_Appeals_Records_and_Br/wU3z2XtqKz8C?hl=en&gbpv=1&dq=tonawanda+power+substation+tower&pg=PA178&printsec=frontcover">Yates's survivor's suit provides</a> more tower details, tower role, and what he saw on the scene (where the dead were found). Fault is ultimately found to be with the equipment provider, who left no instruction to remove the wood blocks used in shipping. In 1925 the company become "associated with" Buffalo General Electric, Niagara Falls Power Co. and others. In 1929, they open a new headquarters on Sweeney and Webster, today Buffalo Suzuki Strings. The Robinson street transformer house and environs is now owned and operated by National Grid. This <a href="https://reference.insulators.info/publications/search/?query=tonawanda&submit=Search%20https://reference.insulators.info/publications/view/?id=5168&h0=tonawanda%C2%A0">collection of electric literature</a> has many fine details and photos of the 1896 construction of the line. <a href="https://americanhistory.si.edu/ja/collections/archival-item/sova-nmah-ac-0949-ref88">Photo archive at the Smithsonian</a>. Advertisement A graphic or text document produced by an entity for promotional purposes. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Niagara Mohawk, illustrated ad (1958).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1958 bridge electricity https://nthistory.com/files/original/aa7330d5791b47027c669a0df3be6c9c.jpg c02b5705ee5d2b532a4a6e8d286cdc8a Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource South Niagara Street Showing Erie Canal, Tonawanda, postcard (c1900).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1900 boat bridge canal tonawanda https://nthistory.com/files/original/4e975d1874d4528530c9de01b67d2ce1.jpg ee69425eb8bb2444cf99313ae0496b61 https://nthistory.com/files/original/6ac959de772fd0e92d5d3466bcb98397.jpg a1f606196a2ae9dcb04ce1867b508b8c https://nthistory.com/files/original/f43209ca97803d12eb7abff800fb513b.jpg 3d543298fa40628018ae9f1ec896f1c6 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal and South Niagara Street, looking east, Tonawanda, postcard (c 1900-1910).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1900 bridge canal erie-canal tonawanda towpath https://nthistory.com/files/original/c5d3e1dade0964919f5a65f0072b0246.JPG 25316b4f32697fb77972146d408fd9a7 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bridges over Erie Canal, postcard (c1950).JPG Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1950 Description An account of the resource Bascule bridge in the distance. bridge canal erie-canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/f8dd4dd51cb3d9e52fac2d17c9881096.jpg d56cd901ab6c0be004b2b7a5926f165b Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Postcard A pictorial representation of a place or entity, intended to be written upon and mailed. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Bridge over Erie Barge Canal dividing Tonawandas, postcard (c1925).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1925 Description An account of the resource First National Bank, Tonawanda Power Co. also pictured. bridge canal erie-canal https://nthistory.com/files/original/49ce30445fb2149d44e522e5c49a25c4.jpg ad6cf28d685bcafb85e4af923b7c4932 Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Erie Canal Description An account of the resource The Erie Canal in North Tonawanda followed the existing Tonawanda Creek from Pendleton. The first work done locally was the 1823 construction of a wooden dam near present-day Gateway Park to raise the level of the creek four feet. A lock was also built to permit passage between the Niagara River (and Great Lakes) and the canal. Early documents also mention a guard lock just east of the lock. After the Civil War, the depth of the entire canal was increased to accomodate larger boats. Starting around 1909 work was done on our section of the canal as part of Contract 19 to improve the prism, or bottom shape (see <a href="https://nthistory.com/collections/show/152">photos of Contract 19</a>) In 1918 the dam was removed when the length of the Erie was re-engineered to become the Erie Barge Canal. The Tonawanda and Buffalo portions of the canal were abandoned at that time, making North Tonawanda the canal's new western terminus. In 1923 Tonawanda began filling in the old canal. The work was not yet complete in 1929. Photo A photographic depiction of a person or place. Dublin Core The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/. Title A name given to the resource Barge Canal Terminal at North Tonawanda, photo (1916).jpg Date A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource 1916 boat bridge canal erie-canal