Industrial
In the 19th century, Buffalo experienced explosive growth as a transportation and industrial center, largely thanks to its position as the western terminus of the Erie Canal, which opened in 1825.
The most significant innovation of the time was Joseph Dart’s creation of the first steam-powered grain elevator in 1841. This invention enabled the efficient transfer of grain from lake ships to canal boats and rail cars, and secured Buffalo as the nation’s largest grain port. Today, several massive concrete grain elevators still line the Buffalo River and Buffalo Ship Canal.
With the increasing success of its various industries, Buffalo’s population ballooned from 10,000 inhabitants in 1832 to twenty-five times that amount in 1890. By the early twentieth century, Buffalo had become one of the largest cities in the United States.
In 1901, the Buffalo’s industrial prominence and innovation were featured at the Pan-American Exposition. While the assassination of President William McKlinley cast a shadow over the fair, the event remains an important testament to the city’s achievements.
Buffalo’s industrial fortunes declined in the last half of the 20th century, but its architectural, educational and cultural institutions are living evidence of the city’s proud industrial past.
