By Deputy County Executive Lisa M. Chimera
This month our nation celebrated its 250th Birthday, with events commemorating this historic milestone held across Erie County. Many of these celebrations were led in part by the Erie County Historical Commission, a group dedicated to preserving the rich history of our region.
The celebrations continue Sunday, August 2 when we recognize one of the most important but least celebrated days in our nation’s history, that in which 56 members of the Second Continental Congress began signing the Declaration of Independence.
“716 Celebrates: Stars, Stripes and Signers” is a free, family-friendly event featuring live entertainment, historical reenactors, family activities, military heritage, food, exhibits and more, all culminating in a major waterfront fireworks spectacular. I invite all to join us from 4:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park for this great celebration. To learn more visit www.buffalonavalpark.org/event/716-celebrates .
Visit Buffalo is continuing to sponsor events across Erie County recognizing America 250. Check with your city, town or village to see what’s happening near you, or go to eriecounty250.com.
This year is also a very special one for our region as we mark 125 years since Buffalo hosted the Pan-American Exposition. In 1901, Buffalo became the center of culture, design and innovation as crowds gathered to see great displays showcasing the new power of electricity, giving Buffalo its nickname, the “City of Light.”
This historic anniversary will be recognized on Saturday, August 1 with a walking tour hosted by The Buffalo History Museum, the only structure from the exposition still standing. Walk along the streets of Buffalo while learning about the grounds where over 8 million people from around the world enjoyed exhibits, shows and feats of design. Cost is $20 per person and includes a souvenir map. To learn more and to register visit www.buffalohistory.org/event/pan-american-walking-tour-3
Year-round there is much to explore and learn about our region’s rich history. Forest Lawn Cemetery is the final resting place for notable figures, including veterans from the Revolutionary War, President Millard Fillmore, groundbreaking politician Shirley Chisholm and many more historic Americans. The cemetery is open to the public daily. Docent-led walking tours are also available on select dates for $20. Or jump on the Famous Sunday in the Cemetery Trolley Tour for $30. For more information visit forest-lawn.com.
Erie County also plays home to many historic books and artifacts. You can experience the nearly 500,000 unique materials in a behind-the-scenes look at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library’s Special Collections Department at the Central Branch Library on the fourth Saturday of each month. Registration is suggested but not required. To learn more visit buffalolib.org/whats-happening.
Lastly, I remind everyone to save the date for “Doors Open Buffalo,” presented by Explore Buffalo. This annual choose-your-own-adventure event will take place on Saturday, September 26. Get excited about our region’s architectural and historical significance. More details coming soon!
I wish everyone a great rest of their summer, one that we will surely remember for many years to come!