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 & Workshops
NextGen SIG: In-Person Meet-up
June 21, 2025 1:00-3:00p EST
Julia Boyer Reinstein Library
1030 Losson Road Cheektowaga, NY 14227
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Upcoming Community Events
Concordia Cemetery Family History Day
July 19, 2025 10:00a-2:00p
Concordia Cemetery
438 Walden Ave.
Buffalo, NY 14211
Chautauqua History Expo
August 23, 2025 10:00a-4:00p
Fluvanna Community Church
3363 Fluvanna Ave.
Jamestown, NY 14701
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 for these upcoming dates:​​​​​​​​​​ ​​​​ ​
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Wed., June 18 12-4 p.m.
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Sat., June 21 12-5 p.m.
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Sat., June 28 1-4 p.m.
(supporting the BECPL's monthly Special Collections Tour)
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Sat., July 5 12-5 p.m.
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Wed., July 9 12-4 p.m.
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Fri., July 11 1-4 p.m.
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Fri., July 18 12-5 p.m.
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Wed., July 23 12-4 p.m.
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Wed., Aug 6 12-4 p.m.
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Fri., August 8 1-4 p.m.
In addition to these special assistance days, the collection remains accessible to all members and patrons during regular library hours.
Original Holland Land Company Vault
(Mayville, NY)
News and Updates
Jan 1, 2025: New and Returning Board Members Start Term
May 16, 2024: Buffalo and Erie County Public Library and the Western New York Genealogical Society's online exhibit, “Buffalo's Neighborhoods: Exploring Our Migrant and Immigrant Heritage," Named 2024 Winner of the National Genealogical Society Conference SLAM! Idea Showcase​
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