The waterways of the Niagara Frontier played a central role in the history and prehistory of the region and promise to shape the development of the region's future. The vital water links of the area not only attracted the work of the best naval architects from the east coast but also spawned unique or specially adapted boats. From the earliest canoes and flat bottomed bateaux to canal packets and majestic yachts, the area presents a rich and fascinating history. It is the mission of the Historic Boat Museum to bring this compelling story of Buffalo's maritime heritage to life.
6,000 square feet of exhibition space allows the display of some 25 to 30 boats ranging from a 1930s Penn Yan dinghy to a 25 foot racing keelboat. Also on display are photos, models, and paintings of boats of the Niagara Frontier. A maritime library is also being developed, with a collection of historic boat plans, scholarly journals, magazines, books, and archival documents.
