With the National Preservation Conference coming this fall, the timing couldn’t be better to add six properties in both Erie and Niagara Counties to the National Register of Historic Places. The six locations described below have been given the seal of approval by the State Review Board and the State’s commissioner of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. It is expected that the Keeper of the National Register will give them the go ahead in the beginning of June.
The following properties are being recognized by the State Historic preservation office:
1. University Park Historic District
This land was purchased by Anthony J. Huck in the early 1900s and developed as a residential area within the city. Many of the homes have been preserved in their original state and convey the unique character of early 20th century neighborhoods. The establishment of a historic district started two years with a group of residents and the Preservation Board chair. Students from a University at Buffalo historic preservation class completed a survey and now the property is undergoing consideration.
2. Buffalo Seminary
This building, located at 205 Bidwell Parkway, was erected in 1909 to become home to the only non-sectarian, college preparatory school for women. George F. Newton, an architect from Boston, designed the building in Collegiate Gothic style. Not only is the building itself important, but the contributions of the school have greatly impacted the city of Buffalo.
3. 20th Century Club (Photo-Steel)
This building, located at 595 Delaware Avenue, was built in 1896 and became the first club in the entire country that was headed by women, to serve women. It is an example of the Classical Renaissance Revival style and also boasts the landscape design talent of Harold LeRoy Olmsted, who created the gardens that complement the building.
4. Engine House #2 and Ladder #9
This firehouse was initially designed and erected in 1875 by Porter & Watkins design firm as Engine House #2, but later was expanded in 1897 by Eckel & Akerman for Hook & Ladder #9. It played a central role in the history of Buffalo’s fire department, remaining an active firehouse from 1875-1997. The building’s design shows an example of late 19th century firehouse design.
5. Hazard H. Sheldon House
This building was created in 1857 and played an essential role in recruitment of local Civil War forces. From 1857-1900, the building was the home of Hazard H. Sheldon, HSQ, who was a Government Recruiting Agent in the village of Niagara Falls. The building itself is a unique example of Italian Villa design.
6. Allen Herschell Carousel Factory (Boundary Increase)
This location’s historic property designation was originally established in 1984. Exploration through the use of maps and photos determined that 39 Geneva Street should also be included as part of the Herschell complex. The building served as Allen Herschell’s office from 1915 to 1945 and contributed to the growth of local amusement parks and development of rides in those parks. The building will be undergoing restoration work to restore it to its original state.
For more information about the properties and photos depicting their historic features, visit the website.