Historic maps of Buffalo are not only interesting to observe, they also help to tell important stories about the ever-changing landscape of this city’s neighborhoods. While many of the maps are in good shape and have been well-preserved, there are others that have been compromised over time. Such is the case with a sub-division map for the Central Park Bennett-Pierce Tract.
In order to safeguard the contents of the map, The Campaign for Buffalo History, Architecture & Culture, in cooperation with Erie County Clerk Mickey Kearns, photographically and digitally rendered a reproduction of the document. The project – made possible through a grant from Peter and Ellen Reese, long term residents of Central Park – was carried out by noted WNY photographer Daniel Cappellazzo. The preservation effort ensures that key parts of Buffalo’s geographic history remain as intact as possible.
It is interesting to note that the original map and accompanying deed restrictions were filed by cement magnate and developer Lewis J. Bennett (May 18, 1892) for whom Bennett High School is named. The filing was for a large tract of land divided into 29 city blocks, bounded by Main Street, Amherst Street, Linden Avenue, and Parkside Avenue (Woodbridge, formerly Wood Ave was – and still is – the northerly boundary too). Ultimately, this Central Park neighborhood became known for attracting prominent architects who designed impressive homes for notable residents. Almost all of these houses still stand today, which is attributed to Bennett and his vision.
“Historic research on Buffalo buildings and sites always eventually passes through the County Clerk’s office in Old County Hall,” said Campaign Research Fellow Tim Tielman. “The Central Park map is becoming difficult to read, with folds, discoloration, fading of inks, and tears. Nailing down the exact location of an event or dimensions of site requires looking at the deeds, descriptions and surveys is vital, but you certainly don’t want to risk further damage to historic documents. That can be avoided by certified digital restorations, and we are happy to be able to rescue such an important piece of Buffalo history for future generations.”
Kearns said, “It is part of my job to preserve old records such as this map for use in real estate transactions, court proceedings and to inform residents of their rights and limits with respect to their properties. It is also my duty to provide certified accurate copies of such records. Unfortunately, the passage of time and handling can render these records illegible or non-reproducible. I am happy to have a chance to collaborate in this project to preserve this map for one of Buffalo’s oldest intact neighborhoods.”
“Buffalo’s history is fascinating, and it is very rewarding to be able to work on preserving a small but significant piece of it and to render it useful to the general public,” added Mr. Cappellazzo, who over decades has worked in the photographic realm for New York Times, Washington Post, USA Today, and the AP and UPI, among others.
Cappellazzo added that he was happy to be able to work on a project in his hometown.