Podcast: Peter Burakowski On The History Musem

Did you know that that the disco floor module that was featured in Saturday Night FEVER was made at Litelab in Buffalo? Have you ever heard of Elephant Joe’s Sign Shop? What do artificial eyes have to do with Buffalo? What’s a death mask… and why did people have them cast when family members passed away? Some of these questions are answered by Peter in this podcast. For others you’ll have to go to the Historical Society yourself to see the exhibits.
So what piques the interest of a 24-year old Buffalonian when history is the topic? Peter not only works at the Historical Society, he also plays in a band called Shambu (named after a professor at Canisius). History and Indie music? A band named after a professor? Young guys like Peter are the future of our city… it’s great to see that he and others are paying attention to our past.
If you’re like me and only find yourself heading to the Historical Society for big events, then do yourself a favor and set aside a few hours to explore the fascinating exhibits that occupy the entire building. Until today I could not remember scaling the stairs to the second floor to see the array of historic memorabilia. In the bottom photo is an old log that used to transport oil to our houses (listen to Peter describe it in detail). Our city has so many stories to tell… so go ahead and listen to some of them.
Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society
25 Nottingham Court Buffalo NY 14216
The building may also be used for meetings and presentations. For more information, contact Robie Carmina. (716) 873-9644 ext. 302.