
Image of Buffalo waterfront
Source: Library of Congress Digital Collections
Shared
History

Western New York’s strategic location on the Great Lakes has made it both a terminus and a gateway of migration. First home to Native American communities, the region was later settled primarily by New Englanders following the Revolutionary War. The opening of the Erie Canal provided an easy route west, attracting the first of many waves of immigrants from Europe. Many people remained in the area and have been followed by others from around the world.
Upcoming Programs & Events

SEPT 16 2023
"Death Records By A Different Name"
presented by Diane L. Richard
10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. EST
Zoom Meeting
Collection Assistance Days
Each month, WNYGS volunteers are on-site at the Central Library to assist researchers with the society's library collection and answer general research questions. Join us on the following dates in May and June:
-
Sat., 5/6 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
-
Sat., 5/13 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
-
Sat., 6/10 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. (Before and during B&ECPL Family History Day)
-
Sat., 6/24 1-3 p.m. (Before B&ECPL Special Collections Tour)
News and Updates

Original Holland Land Company Vault
(Mayville, NY)
Apr 1, 2023: WNYGS Website Team Launches New Members Area
Feb 1, 2023: Buffalo Deaths Collection Index Now Available Online
Jan 1, 2023: 2023 Winter/Spring Programs Announced