Here is a 128 page paper bound “lite” history of Buffalo as a rail
hub. During the 1860’s and 70’s, Buffalo was considered the second largest railroad hub in
the Unites States. Given its location,
it saw the effects of westward expansion as the country grew and greatly
benefited as a result. Buffalo rapidly became a city of importance as the
stockyards, grain, steel, automotive, and other industries began to establish
themselves in the area. Drawn by vast
amounts of fresh water, inexpensive hydropower, and good railroads, the Buffalo
region grew -- and with it, the railroads expanded. Buffalo earned the name of
the Queen City as it became the second-largest city in the state of New York,
and it was the railroad that brought the city to prominence.
Author Bio: Stephen G. Myers grew up along the tracks and
developed a love that turned into a career as a conductor at Buffalo's Frontier
Yard. Michael J. Connor's father was a
manager for the Erie Railroad, and Michael followed in his father's footsteps
to be a railroad man. Today he is
president of the Erie Lackawanna Historical Society. Both authors drew from their personal photograph
collections and sought out local historians and societies to compile vintage the
images of Buffalo’s Railroads.
