Coinciding with the evolution of the academic programs and community outreach programs, the center began to research and collect historic boats, information, and artifacts relative to the region's rich maritime heritage.
These interests led to the research, design, and construction of a replica of the once ubtiquitous Buffalo Harbor Water Taxis, now housed in the Buffalo and Erie county Historical Museum. (See Article: Western New York Heritage Magazine).
From these beginnings, the center has continued to seek out watercraft peculiar to this area for collection, restoration, or replication if needed. Most recently students and volunteers have built the 28-foot two-masted Erie Boat "Scajaquada," circa 1885, and the 18-foot Buffalo Bird Class 1898 racing catboat.
