Western New York and the Gilded Age

Born from the success of the Erie Canal, the communities of Western New York enjoyed a century of growth and prosperity during America's Gilded Age. Buffalo was one of the richest cities in America and dominated industry and politics, producing two presidents. Wealth and architectural opportunity enticed figures like Frank Lloyd Wright, while the events of the Pan-American Exposition and a presidential assassination and inauguration attracted the world's attention. Drawing on the natural resources of Niagara Falls and profiting from a friendly relationship with Canada, the people of Western New York enjoyed luxurious leisure time and documented their adventures in photo albums and postcards. It is these images and remembrances, beautifully reproduced in this book, that capture this charming time in Western New York's history.

Julianna Fiddler-Woite is the great-great-granddaughter of Michael Snyder, namesake of Snyder, New York. In 2009, she published Snyder, New York: A Brief History, a more complete supplement to Snyderville: History of a Village, Portrait of a Family (1997, out of print). Julianna is a local college instructor who specializes in educational research and writing.
Mary Beth Paulin Scumaci is a lifelong resident of Western New York. Born and raised in Lockport, she is a canawler by birthright. Mary Beth is a New York State certified elementary school teacher and a clinical assistant professor with the School of Education at Medaille College in Buffalo, New York. She lives with her family in Williamsville, New York.
Peter C. Scumaci is a New York State certified high school social studies teacher and part-time photographer. Peter's passion for photography, combined with his extensive knowledge of history, influences his photography. Peter lives with his family in Williamsville, New York.