My Neighbor

Lisa Earle McLeod has a column about suicide in today's Buffalo News. She deals mainly with the legacy that devastates immediate families. I'd like to go a step further regarding the person who didn't marry, didn't have kids. Other people are still affected and are left try to deal with the mind-numbing senselessness of it all.

My neighbor John was the all around handyman of the block. He was the first person everyone called when something needed fixing, and he always had a smile on his face. About a month ago he hung himself.

To say that we all were shocked beyond belief is understating it. Apparently he'd had some legal problems initiated by tenants, but still...Useless speculation wonders if alcohol played a role in irreversible decision making.

It seems so incredibly selfish to say that everywhere I look in this house I see something he had fixed or something that he had yet to get around to. The Sunday night before he had called to tell me he'd be picking up some leftover parts the next day that were still in my kitchen. He said he'd been "under the weather" for a few days. Then his girlfriend called Monday night to see if he had shown up (no). She sounded worried "It's not like him..." before she cut herself off.

Then we got the news. It still messes with my head a bit. I can't imagine the emptiness felt by all of his many close friends. I can't imagine how his girlfriend must feel, especially since she was the one who found him at his cottage retreat. "My girl" he always called her. They were going to get married.

For me to call him a friend might be pushing it, but yet the term 'acquaintance' seems so cold. Somewhere in the middle, someone who was part of my life and part of the fabric of the neighborhood.

The now-vacant house on the corner looms large, seen every time we enter the street. I'm sure I'm speaking for all when I say that we wish John could've forced himself to see the stress through. We all miss John's presence in our lives.

So long, neighbor. So long, friend.

Alumni Mom - In Memory of Gretchen Stringer

The following originally appeared as part of a larger post about an alumni mom, Gretchen Stringer, back in July. She passed away Tuesday, peacefully and with her family. This is a tribute to a much admired citizen, volunteer, woman, and mother:

"Gretchen Engstrom Stringer was inducted into the WNY Women's Hall of Fame in 2001:

"Gretchen Stringer walks around with pockets full of energy, humor,inspiration and optimism, all of which she generously shares with anyone lucky enough to bump into her. And there have been scores so blessed over the decades of her business and volunteer careers. Gretchen’s distinctive style of leadership has inspired groups from Girl Scouts to Junior League provisionals, from community workers to businesswomen. Building a house, planning a celebration or serving a client, Gretchen goes the extra mile that makes everything she touches special."

She is highly regarded for her myriad contributions to the community and work in the field of volunteer administration. The Friends of Women's Rights had this to say about Gretchen when listing her as a member of their board of directors:

"Gretchen Stringer has actively served on more than 20 community boards, including the Girl Scouts Council, NABOW, Junior League, and the Erie County Commission on the Status of Women, and has received numerous honors for her volunteerism, including induction into the Western New York Women’s Hall of Fame in 2001. In 2005, the Volunteer Administrators of Western New York established the annual Gretchen Stringer Outstanding Award in the field of volunteer administration. Gretchen is currently the President and Owner of Volunteer Consultants."

Perhaps one of her most unique accolades was being chosen to carry the Olympic torch when it traveled through WNY in 1996.

She also served on the Clarence School Board. There's so much else to say about her other contributions, books, classes, seminars, inspirations, recognitions and such. She has not only served on several boards, she has also served down in the trenches.

Now semi-retired, Mrs. Stringer did an interview with WBFO and it can be heard on their site. She was accompanied by NYS Senator Mary Lou Rath, who then participated in the memory conversation (pictured). I'm sure the 40 minutes flew by, just like the years."

STRINGER - Gretchen (nee Engstrom) January 6, 2009, age 83; beloved wife of the late Loren F. Stringer; loving mother of Lizbeth, Pamela, Frederick (Lisa) and William (Giselle Maira) Stringer; cherished grandmother of Elspeth and Neil. The family will be present on Friday from 2-4 and 6-9 PM at the (Amherst Chapel) AMIGONE FUNERAL HOME INC., 5200 Sheridan Drive (Corner of Hopkins Road) where funeral services will be held on Saturday at 1:00 PM. Friends invited. On-line guest register at www.AMIGONE.com.

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Mark O'Connor - RIP

Clarence alumnus ('71) Mark O'Connor passed away January 2, 2009 from the complications of diabetes. RIP.

From the Clarence Bee: Mark Baldwin O'Connor, born in Buffalo, served in the US Army from 1972 until 1974. He was a truck driver for Path Trucking in Oakfield, later working for Montogomery Tank Lines, now known as Caledonia Lines. Mark was a motorcycle and NASCAR enthusiast.

OCONNOR - Mark B. January 2, 2009, beloved husband of Sandra J. (Currier) OConnor; step-father of Lisa Way and Christine Wyder; son of Dorothy (late John) OConnor Jr.; brother of Michael (Maureen) OConnor, JoEllen (late John) Blickensderfer and the late Brian OConnor; also survived by seven grandchildren, nieces, nephews and cousins. Friends received Sunday 2-4 PM at SHEPARD BROS. FUNERAL HOME, 10690 Main St., Clarence. A Mass of Christian Burial will be Monday, 10 AM at Nativity of BVM Church, 8550 Main St., Harris Hill.

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Weird Tales

Believe it or not, I hadn't seen the December 2008 edition of Buffalo Spree until yesterday afternoon. I'm still reading it, but already have come across references to "Hooded Knights on the Niagara" and Mike Rizzo's knowledge of Mob lore, this time concentrating on Buffalo (I'm actually more familiar with Mike's book "998", which is about Buffalo's retailing history).

Eerie coincidence, as I just wrote about these subjects the last few days.

And the cover! There are more throughout the magazine also used to introduce different subjects. That was part of what drew me to the magazine, besides the tales of scandal in Buffalo's history. I used a romance comic book cover just a few days ago myself when writing about the Buffalo Sabres.

Far from copying, as I hadn't seen Spree yet, I used to read these things back in the day, along with versions of Weird Tales, including Creepshow (the comic book) by Stephen King. I could relate, you might say.

From Spree's Facebook notes:

"Every region has its share of controversial happenings, from truly infamous crimes to merely ironic mishaps, and Western New York is no exception. This month we explore exciting tales of mob bosses, shady mayors, unsolved mysteries, and society murders. We’ve even tracked down some sports controversies and put together a scandal map and timeline. Spree might not know where all the bodies are buried, but we’ve certainly got some fascinating stories to share. It’s a mad, mad, mad, mad world, and WNY has contributed its share."

As far as I can tell, back issues of Buffalo Spree aren't available through their website, but maybe you know someone who has it in their magazine rack. Too bad I didn't pick this up when it first came out in order to give you a chance to buy your own copy...Lots of research went into this fascinating issue. Good read!

Books About the Early 1920's in WNY - Part 2

(About a month ago I bought 2 books to read, little realizing at the time that they both occupied the same space in time - the early 1920's in WNY. They also intersect briefly regarding an incident or two in the much broader common ground of Prohibition. They were not on the same side.)

Stefano Magaddino was a recent immigrant and Catholic by birth. This alone would have put him in the cross-hairs of the hooded knights. Like he even cared about them. However Magaddino wasn't fighting against the laws mandating Prohibition. Far from it. There was money to be made, and lots of it. The Buffalo-Niagara region was just the place to do it.

It was business, strictly business.

The Anti-Saloon League was a minor irritant at first. Once they hitched their wagon to the kkk they became emboldened. Petty bottle smashings started turning into a few major inconveniences for Magaddino and company. An annoying itch had become a pain in the posterior. You might say it caught their attention.

Don Stefano Magaddino was The Man in the Buffalo-Niagara Falls region and throughout southern Ontario. You might say he had the ins and outs of liquor smuggling covered, and much more.

A few fire-bombings later the preachers decided that maybe membership in the kkk wasn't all they had thought it would be. The sheets didn't give them quite the anonymity they craved, and certainly didn't protect them.

"Hooded Knights on the Niagara" was written using documentation from the 1920's. That means there was no mention of the Mob, as it didn't exist as far as periodicals of that time were concerned. Hoodlums and bootleggers also get scant attention.

For information on what else was happening regarding Prohibition on the Niagara Frontier back in the 1920's you need look no further than the life and times of Stefano Magaddino as described in "Mob Boss" by Mike Hudson. That's where you'll get the scoop on the men behind the steady influx of alcohol during this period.

Ever since reading the Reader's Digest condensed version of "The Valachi Papers" in one sitting while being the only kid at my aunt's house one long ago Thanksgiving, I have read many books that furthered the subject matter. "Mob Boss" fills in many of the blanks regarding the Outfit throughout WNY history. Facts are rounded out with folklore and memories of those who remember when.

I almost forgot - another look at Magaddino can be had through The Mob Tours, conducted in Niagara Falls by local author and historian Mike Rizzo. The website is pretty interesting too.

Two books, two viewpoints presented on facets of life during the Roaring 20's in WNY. I'm sure there are many more out there too. In fact, I may have a few of them on my bookshelf...

Books About the Early 1920's in WNY - Part 1

About a month ago I bought 2 books to read, little realizing at the time that they both occupied the same space in time - the early 1920's in WNY. They also intersect briefly regarding an incident or two in the much broader common ground of Prohibition. They were not on the same side.

After reading that the hooded knights had convened on Delaware Road and a few other places in Clarence in one of the books of Clarence alumnus Doug Kohler ('84), I became intrigued. This seemed at odds with the official bucolic history of the area. Some things just aren't spoken in polite company.

"Hooded Knights on the Niagara" by Shawn Lay covers the history of the resurrection of the kkk, their seduction of native-born white Protestants in the Buffalo area, and the attendant ugliness. Catholics and immigrants (many of whom were Catholic) were the main targets, with Prohibition being the glue that tied it all together.

Let me clarify now that the book is mainly centered in Buffalo and doesn't shed much light on the dark side of Clarence in the 1920's. Speculation has it that immigrants coming to work in the mines may have had some in an uproar, especially since many were the despised Catholics (heavily promoted by Protestant ministers were rumors of a plot by the Pope to take over America and become a foreign ruler, among other things).

German-Americans proved to be particularly susceptible to the allure of the group, perhaps in part due to being singled out and spat upon during the Great War. This was their chance to be oppressors rather than the oppressed. Curious how that works sometimes.

The preachers were on a rampage. Alcohol and Catholics were the main targets. Card playing and dancing were also looked upon as gateways to evils, which included gambling and prostitution.

The kkk sidled in and adjusted their agenda to specifically address these concerns, all to gain members and the accompanying dues and other fees. They also offered much valued secrecy and pageantry. The masons and other such organizations were big back then. Bottom line - money for the organization, anonymity for the members, power for both.

It was around this time that Stefano Magaddino moved to Niagara Falls.

More tomorrow.

Wolcottsburg Wolcottsville

A small article in the Buffalo News caught my attention Friday:

BERGHOLZ — The Historical Society of North German Settlements in Western New York is trying to help a German man get photos of clothing worn by Germans who came to the United States during the 19th century.

Elaine Timm, of Niagara Falls, said Werner Karsch, of Schmolin, Germany, is looking for photos of clothing worn by those who left the Uckermark region of Germany in 1860 or earlier. Ancestors from that region now live in areas that include Wheatfield, Martinsville and Wolcottsville, Timm said.

Call Timm at 716-421-2217. She said she will take a photo of the articles and forward it to Karsch.

First I'm trying to remember if my mom has any old pictures. Then I look up the history of photography and find that modern methods didn't really start until the 1880's, so now we're talking daguerreotypes most likely.

Then I started thinking about the "Wolcottsville -Wolcottsburg" names, and how I keep forgetting which one is which. I spent a lot of time in Wolcottsburg in Erie County, not Wolcottsville in Niagara County...Yes, I had to look it up.

I don't feel bad about not remembering the name, because even those charged with recording and photographing historical buildings, cemeteries and other resources in Clarence called it Wolcottsville. Having spent an hour skimming through the PDF file I can truthfully say that I'm almost nitpicking.

A lot of work went into this presentation. Even though I thought some valuable places were missed, there is so very much included. After the history is presented the photographs start. You can scroll through by street name & number and do the "I remember" or the "I didn't know that" thing frequently, especially if you no longer live in the area.

Immigrants from the Uckermark area settled in Erie County too, in Wolcottsburg (also known as West Prussia, back in the day). According to Sue Roll, the Hartwig family came from the village of Bergholz near Löcknitz. These towns are north-northeast of Berlin in the province of Bradenburg, located in historical Prussia.

The history of settlers in Wolcottsville (in Niagara County) can be found via the Moll Brothers site, as they thoroughly researched their family history. The Alfred Moll family ended up in Wolcottsburg in later years.

A different article in the News is about a visit to Germany by a Niagara County group, which is interesting from their perspective. I can get huffy about the Clarence Germans being ignored, but why continue in a divisive tradition...

At first glance it would seem curious that 2 similar groups would not have merged. But back then there were no cars, no fast and easy way to stay in touch. This is assuming they would have wanted to. Far from banding together, they were noted for digging their heels in at the slightest difference of opinion and forming new communities. In Wolcottsburg the church split for a while, with the breakaway faction building a new place to worship right next door.

It is an accurate stereotype that Germans can be stubborn, which can be a plus or a minus, take your pick:

1. Unreasonably, often perversely unyielding; bullheaded.
2. Firmly resolved or determined; resolute.

If I've lost your attention, try to at least check on the Historical Resources file (takes a while to fully load) and the Moll Brothers history.

And If you have any pertinent photographs of clothing from the 1860's, give Ms. Timm a call!

Buffalo Memorial Auditorium - Auctioning Off Pieces, Saving the Memories

This afternoon I plan on wandering over to the Buffalo Convention Center to attend the Farewell to The Aud event. It's not like one can say goodbye there though. One needs to go down to the actual site for that.

One more glimpse of the place where I saw my first real concert - Jethro Tull - and many more after that...Both many more Jethro Tull concerts, and many more other bands too. Tickets for the orange seats, bought at Norton Hall/the Student Union at UB, were typically purchased due to cost concerns, with full plans to actually park our butts elsewhere.

One of the last times I was in the Aud for a concert was for Bob Seger and his "Like a Rock" tour. I was with someone not familiar with this routine and when I was attempting to wander through lower seats she said in a loud voice "I thought we had orange seats!" after which the usher looked at us and shook his head. I pointed out to her exactly where these seats were, way way up at the top. As we walked away I explained the plan, which she said I should have done previously. I thought she knew! We later watched from a side view in the blues.

Wrestling matches too. I remember my father watching Haystack Calhoun and Gorgeous George on the black and white television. In later years I would go to the Aud to cheer on Hulk Hogan, Jake the Snake, Ricky Steamboat, and various other wrestlers, all while taking pictures, like the one here (I didn't give them ALL away after I had moved on). Some of these I would later sell to wrestling magazines and to fans.

The first match I went to, tagging along with friends on a nothing to do night, featured Jesse "The Body" Ventura (later to be Governor of Minnesota) wearing his boa and Adrian Adonis (real name Keith Franke, of Kenmore). I was smitten with the whole thing, for a while anyway. I lost interest eventually when it became too much like work, and it was more intriguing to take a closeup of a praying mantis in front of us (at an outdoor match at the Hamburg Fairgrounds) than Sergeant Slaughter.

I actually didn't see too many Buffalo Sabres games at the Aud. My first hockey games there were for the Buffalo Bisons, while sitting in the gray seats. They weren't comfortable then, but much better than those orange seats that we viewed the Buffalo Braves from...and one of my kids thinks the upper level of the Arena is scary...Fear of falling was a given. I don't see how anyone could even want to drink too much beer up there.

My kids got to see the Shrine Circus in the Aud (from the safety of lower seats), so they have a bit of themselves in the building too.

Now the seats are for sale - the blue ones anyway. The oranges were bolted to the floor and it wasn't practical to undo them for sale. A tool probably rolled down the aisle and went crashing to the floor in a slow motion foreshadowing of doom for any who tried to pry them loose :) Down with the ship...er, Aud... for them!

Anyway, there promises to be various vendors of memorabilia set up, and I definitely plan on coming away with something, even if it's just a hockey puck. You can have your picture taken in front of a fake front, but I'd rather go down to the foot of Main for the real thing.

For those who couldn't make it to Buffalo this weekend, there will also be an online auction of some of the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium seats that have been set aside for just this purpose. Get ready to shell out some bucks, as people bid as high as $1000 for 4 attached seats. Not me. I'll take a picture instead.

12/10/08 Update: Possible auction of the orange seats

Clarence Teacher - In Memory of Jerome Werblow

Jerome Werblow was an English and public speaking teacher at Clarence Junior High School back in the day (not sure when he retired). I remember him taking the whole class to see "To Sir, With Love" when it first came out. I think he kinda wanted someone to try to sing it to him - didn't happen. A bit late, but I'd like to finally say on behalf of all the students whose lives he touched that the song "To Sir, With Love" is dedicated to Mr. Werblow.

WERBLOW - Jerome V. November 10, 2008; beloved husband of Gloria (Resman) Werblow; devoted father of Ellen Werblow of NC, Leslie (Todd) Platts of PA and Barbara (Gary) Catalfu of NC; loving grandfather of T.J. and Tom Platts, Ryan and Kevin Catalfu; brother of Jack (Suzanne) Weblow. Proudly served his country in the Air Force during the Korean conflict and will be fondly remembered by his many students from Clarence Jr. High School, he was an avid sports fan. Graveside services will be held Thursday 2 PM at Elmlawn Cemetery, meet at the Brighton Rd. entrance. In lieu flowers memorials may be made to the Autism Society of NC, 505 Oberlin Dr., Suite 230, Raleigh, NC 27605. The family will receive friends at his former residence, Thursday evening through Sunday. Arrangements by the MESNEKOFF FUNERAL HOME, (639-8890)

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James Montoro - RIP

Clarence alumnus ('79) James Montoro passed away recently in Vermont. Rest in peace.

MONTORO - James C. Age 47, of Middletown Springs, VT, formerly of Clarence, NY, passed away on October 24, 2008 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was buried in Vermont. Beloved husband of Wendy Leffel; cherished son of John and Rose Montoro; dearest brother of John (Melinda) Montoro and Linda (Dr. Samuel) Ruggiero; loving uncle of Carami and Christian Montoro, and Matthew and Julia Ruggiero; also survived by several aunts, uncles and cousins. James was a graduate of Clarence High School and Purdue University with a degree in Biomedical Engineering, and did graduate work at the University of Buffalo. He was employed by Honeywell. A memorial mass will be celebrated in his honor on January 3, 2009 at 9:00 AM at St. Gabriels Roman Catholic Church, Elma. Flowers gratefully declined, donations may be made to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.

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Francine Marino Storm - RIP

Clarence alumna ('80) Francine Marino Storm passed away October 30, 2008 after a long struggle with reoccurring Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma. She had been at Millard fillmore Suburban Hospital for the last few weeks, struggling to get strong enough to return home one more time, but it was not to be. Rest in peace, Francine.

STORM - Francine M. (Marino) October 30, 2008, beloved wife of Michael Storm; mother of Joseph Storm; daughter of Joseph and Angeline (Massaro) Marino; daughter-in-law of John and Gertrude Storm; sister of Joel Scime; survived by many nieces and nephews. Family present to receive friends Monday from 4-8 PM at the PERNA-PELLEGRINO FUNERAL HOME, 1671 Maple Rd. Family and friends are asked to assemble for a Mass of Christian Burial to be celebrated Tuesday at 10 AM from Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Clarence). Interment Mt. Calvary Cemetery. Flowers gratefully declined. Arrangements by Connie Perna-Pellegrino.

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Kupferschleeger Road

Clarence has it's very own notable Halloween spot on the north side of town. Last week's Art Voice picked up on it as it was doing a tour of local spooky areas:

"Lastly we park our butts outside Delaware Road off Transit as the clock inches toward midnight. No one travels down Delaware Road except fanatics like us: a dark road that never sees cars, surrounded by woods. We sit there and listen to the trees. We tell stories about local hicks who hang squirrels and like to eat 16-year-old kids. We look for the mystery of night. Then there’s no more talk, just the beating of our hearts, and the breaths that we take, until someone lights a cigarette and says, “I’m tired. Let’s get out of here.”

The first issue I have with it is the location, obviously. It's not directly off of Transit, rather it's between Goodrich and Salt Roads in the part of town known as Wolcottsburg. Local hicks? Well, this IS campfire scary story time after all.

I also saw another Delaware Road mention online on StrangeUSA from 2006:

"In the early morning hours of spring and fall driving down this old carriage road you can feel a presence of old world culture. If on the right night one can make out a man standing roadside holding a lantern, and two feet on the right or left you can see a young girl waiting with the man for something. Warning: Rumors of a kid beaten pretty badly, please do not stop, it may not be safe."

Oh pooh. What rumors? However it has been little more than a wide heavily wooded trail for over 150 years, so something may have happened. Spooky it is. Not safe? At least it's paved now, which it wasn't in the 60's and before. Driving down two muddy tire ruts going through the closely hovering trees in the midnight hour or any other time brings fears of getting stuck, but that's about it...Of course, if stuck, all those other hobgoblins may come shuffling out of the woods :)

Back in the day when this route was first carved through the forest it was called Kupferschleeger Road (aka Francis Road) after the farmer whose property it bordered. Remember there was a predominant Prussian-German community there at the time. In fact the corner on Goodrich was site to many festivities in the late 1800's, including a beer garden and the first carousal. Probably was spooky then too if someone wandered off.

According to a book written by Clarence alumnus ('84) and teacher Doug Kohler about the North Country of Clarence, the white-sheeted ones came to town in the early 1920's and held a rally deep on the road in 1924. Now THAT'S scary.

The first time I drove my kids down there while killing time they freaked out, and it was broad daylight...Daylight in the outside world that is. The woods have a way of taking time away and replacing it with an otherwordly experience. "Mom, are you sure you know where we are? Mom, can we leave now? Mom?" There's only so fast you can safely drive from one end to the other. Besides, I wanted to savor the atmosphere:)

This Halloween night, or any other time for that matter, check it out for yourself. Woooo!

(HT to Bill)

Jeff Putney - RIP

Clarence alumnus ('72) Jeff Putney passed away October 24, 2008. Rest in peace Jeff.

PUTNEY - Jeffrey C. October 24, 2008, of Clarence, NY, beloved brother of Gail (Ken) Skeens, Michael (Elaine) Conover, John Putney, Nancy (Reginald) Sutton, Leslie Seamans (Doug Byrd) and the late Mark Putney; also survived by nieces and nephews; predeceased by his mother, Betty Jean Staubitz Putney. Friends received today 6-8 PM with a time to share at 7:30 PM at SHEPARD BROS. FUNERAL HOME, 10690 Main St., Clarence. A Graveside Service will be Monday 11 AM at Clarence Fillmore Cemetery, Ransom Rd., Clarence. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. View/Sign Guest Book

Clarence Teacher - In Memory of Herbert Bosch

Long time Clarence school teacher Herbert Bosch passed away on October 2, 2008. I never had him for English, but Budd Bailey ('73) recalls him as the teacher that cured him of any interest in reading Shakespeare after junior year elective. However he's willing to concede that Shakespeare was more to blame for that than Mr. Bosch.

The '69 Saga had a two page photo spread in appreciation of Mr. Bosch, and I borrowed a few of the pictures to share here (photo from later years appeared in the News).

From the Buffalo News:

May 16, 1923 — Oct. 2, 2008

Herbert A. Bosch, a retired Clarence High School English teacher, died Oct. 2 in Mercy Hospital. He was 85.

Born in Port Jervis, the Elma resident came to Buffalo with his family in the late 1920s. He attended School 54 and Fosdick- Masten Park High School.

A Navy veteran, Mr. Bosch served on destroyer escorts in the Pacific, Mediterranean and Atlantic theaters during World War II. After the war, he received his bachelor’s degree in education from Wagner College and his master’s degree in education from the University of Buffalo.

Before retiring in 1984, he taught for 31 years, starting at Cattaraugus and Amherst Central high schools. His last 25 years as a full-time teacher were at Clarence High, where he was known for singing “The Night Before Christmas” before the annual holiday break and once narrating a school band performance of “Peter and the Wolf” in Kleinhans Music Hall.

After retiring, he was a substitute teacher at Iroquois Central High School for many years. A lover of history and nature, he volunteered at Tifft and Beaver Meadow nature preserves and was president of the Elma Library board.

Surviving are his wife of 61 years, Carol Kenline Bosch; five sons, Peter, Stephen, Jonathan, David and Daniel; two daughters, Kathy (Sister Ambrosia) and Janey; a brother, Paul; and a sister, Ruth Becker.

A memorial service will be at 3 p. m. Oct. 25 in St. John’s Lutheran Church on Woodward Road in Elma.

BOSCH - Herbert A. October 2, 2008. Beloved husband of 61 years of Carol (nee Kenline) Bosch; father of Peter (Laurie), Stephen, Jonathan, Kathy (Sister Amvrosia), David (Kathy), Daniel (Melanie) and Janey; grandfather of 19; Opa of 15. Mr. Bosch donated his body to UB. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo, Inc. or Tifft Nature Preserve. Memorial service to be held October 25th at 3 PM in St. Johns Lutheran Church, Woodard Rd., Elma.

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Williams Hall

100 years ago the Clarence Center Volunteers Firemen Company was formed. E.W. Eshelman donated the land for a fire hall and the company set out to raise money to build one. The first firemen's picnic was held in July of that year for fundraising, and the tradition has continued ever since. Wesley Williams donated a large sum of money to the fund, thus "Williams Hall".


As time went on more space was needed for trucks, since there was only one doorway, on the lower left. Eventually another hall was built and the original was mothballed. Now it's gone, but you knew that if you went to the picnic last year.

Now the site of Williams Hall bears a marker with a plaque on the back - gone but not forgotten. While demolition by neglect still irks me, it's not uncommon, unfortunately. The Buffalo Memorial Auditorium being another example of this mindset, as well as the grand interior of the no longer used entrance to the Buffalo Science Museum (at least that may be renovated).

There is a bright side - now the bandstand can be seen from Clarence Center Road. This isn't the place that Route 66, Hit n Run, and West of Mark will play - they'll be on a stage in the beer tent. No, this bandstand will be home to a more low-key style. The groups there will play the kind of music that all ages can enjoy while eating or resting from walking around.

The picture of Williams Hall is also a reminder to take photos of historic buildings while you can. You never know - one day you may show up to capture an image for posterity, camera in hand, and find out it's gone. I should know, because it happened to me.

Clarence Historical Museum

Today is the "History Day" part of the Clarence Heritage Days weekend celebration. That brings us directly to the front door of the Clarence Historical Museum, located at 10465 Main Street, on the north side of the Town Park. It will be open all weekend so that residents and visitors alike can view the collected materials relating to early and present day Clarence.

A couple of weeks ago I stopped by and was shown around by the museum curator, Clarence alumna ('71) Alicia Bush Braaten (pictured). There are various sections on military history (including current residents in the armed forces), domestic life, industry, schools (including yearbooks from back when through 2008), and much more.

The Goodrich-Landow log cabin is also located on the grounds and is available for inside tours. It was interesting to learn that the phrase "sleep tight" originated in the need to tighten the ropes that held the mattress up. The "bed bugs" part is self-explanatory.

I've posted the pictures I took in a web album for all to browse through. I'll be adding more as I go back on a later date and meander though the parts I missed that day, due to becoming fascinated on one side of the museum, while at the same time, reminiscing with a childhood friend :) So much to see, so little time alloted...Time flies, both that day and in the historical sense.

Today there will be a special focus on old time games and activities for an afternoon of memories. From the brochure:

"Outside there will be a checkers tournament, croquet, nine pins, game of graces, jacks, marbles, and more! Inside the building speakers will present short programs at the top of each hour. Historic re-enactors will be on the grounds to answer questions, especially the age old one, "Was life easier back then?"

Ha!

The regular hours of the Museum are Wednesday 10am - 2pm and Sunday 1pm - 4pm (March 1 - October 31). The hours for Clarence Genealogy research at the Gerber Greatbatch Library, 10871 Main Street are Wednesday 9:30am - 12noon (716-749-1623).

Mark Putney - RIP

Clarence alumnus ('74) Mark Putney passed away July 23, 2008 after a long illness. He counted the late Rich Beyer (Class '70) among his closest friends . Rest in Peace Mark.

PUTNEY - Mark D. July 23, 2008 of Clarence, NY. Beloved brother Gail (Ken) Skeens, Michael (Elaine) Conover, John Putney, Nancy (Reginald) Sutton, Jeffrey Putney and Leslie Seamans; also survived by nieces and nephews. Predeceased by his mother Betty Jean (Staubitz) Putney. Friends received Saturday 3-5:30 with a service at 6 PM at SHEPARD BROS FUNERAL HOME, 10690 Main St., Clarence. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Roswell Park.
Published in the Buffalo News on 7/25/2008 Guest Book • Funeral home info • Flowers • Charities

In Memory of Jerry Gorman

Clarence alumnus ('74) Jerry Gorman died yesterday morning, with his partner and caregiver, Judy Monin, by his side. From Judy's walk page:

"Faster than a speeding bullet, more powerful than a locomotive, able to leap tall buildings in a single bound…Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s Superman!

Yes, Superman! Strange visitor from another planet who came to earth with powers and abilities far beyond those of mortal men.

Superman! Who can change the course of mighty rivers, bend steel in his bare hands, and who disguised as Jerry Gorman, mild-mannered IT Manager for a great metropolitan juice manufacturer, fights a never-ending battle for Truth, Justice, and to “Strike Out” ALS!"

Darn kryptonite, disguised as ALS...

Jerry first contacted me a short 2 weeks ago to ask everyone to join him in the Walk to Defeat ALS. The request still stands. From his sister Deborah (Class '72):

"In his last days, Jerry followed his team results in the ALS Walk avidly. It was something he could do even while bedridden, since he still had enough muscle function to use his computer. As a most avid competitor (we used to call him the "Terminator Moderator" when we played board games), he was happy to finally reach #1 in both team and individual races.

We are now asking anyone who wants to know of a charity to support in Jerry's name to donate to the Walk to Defeat ALS. We are determined to keep him as King of the Race in this year when he will not be with his walkers.

ALS is one of those diseases that doesn't get much attention because it affects a relatively small number of people, but it is so incredibly harsh and inexorable.

Jerry enjoyed life even when it threw him some very hard knocks. He had a talent for that, and I try now to take a lesson from him.

Jerry has generated love throughout his life, and it means so much to me as his sister to know that so many people honor him with their kind words."

Take the time to read previous posts that Jerry contributed to, and that many have left condolences on. Take the time to go to Jerry's Journey, and also the team page, to read the stories by clicking on the many names. Take the time to remember Jerry by donating to "Strike out ALS!"

Most of all, remember Jerry. He will live on in the hearts of many and continue to be an inspiration for us all.

"Rest in Peace" almost doesn't seem fitting. Somehow I have a feeling that he'll continue the fight from the other side. Rock on Jerry! We'll miss you.

(the pictures are from Jerry's team pages and include Jerry & Judy, and at the Brown's in FL)

GORMAN - Gerald V. (Jerry) July 24, 2008. Loving companion of Judy (Kaminski) Monin; dear father of Jeanna, Michael and Alexandra Gorman; son of Jeanette B. (Buccella) Licata and the late Donald Gorman Sr.; brother of Deborah (Benito Cachinero) Gorman, Rosemary (Robert) McLennan, William (Kathleen) Gorman, late Donald (Carla) Gorman, Jr.; uncle of Benito and Alexander Cachinero-Gorman, Chase Gorman, Ashley and Natalie Gorman, Emma, Abby, and Hannah Palmerton; also survived by many aunts, uncles, and cousins. Funeral from the JAMES W. CANNAN FUNERAL HOME, INC. (Southtowns Chapel) 3155 Orchard Park Road, Monday at 9:30 and from St. Mary of the Lake Church at 10:30 AM. Friends may call Saturday and Sunday from 2-4 and 7-9 PM. In lieu of flowers donations may be sent to Jerrys Journey-Buffalo Walk to Defeat A.L.S., P.O. Box 784, Dunkirk, NY 14048. Online registers book at www.cannanfh.com Published in the Buffalo News from 7/25/2008 - 7/27/2008

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In Memory of Becky Neiss

Clarence alumna ('79) Becky Neiss passed away suddenly on July 4, 2008. She has been described by everyone as one of the nicest people, and a really wonderful person. Becky was fun to be around, and she was caught on camera at last year's Labor Day picnic as she was hanging out with friends (pictured above).

Becky worked as an administrative assistant in the Economics Department at UB. She loved her work family, and they were very important to her.

Becky will live on in spirit in the hearts of many. Condolences to both family and friends.

Rest in peace.

From the Buffalo News:

NEISS - Rebecca July 4, 2008, age 47, of Williamsville, NY, beloved daughter of Rebecca J. (Woodworth) and the late Charles R. Neiss; dear sister of John C. (late Marylouise), Sharon A. (Mark) Phillips, Charles V. and James C. (Marie) Neiss; also survived by her loving dog and companion, Bailey Blueberry Neiss, nieces, nephews, many relatives and friends.

Friends received Tuesday 4-8 PM at SHEPARD BROS. FUNERAL HOME, 10690 Main St., Clarence where a Funeral Service will be held Wednesday at 10 AM. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Animal Humane Society of your choice.

Becky was a 1979 graduate of Clarence High School, and also of SUNY at Buffalo, where she earned a BA in Psychology.

Published in the Buffalo News on 7/6/2008. Guest Book • Funeral home info • Flowers • Charities

At The Foot of Breckenridge Street

Much has been in the news lately about the collapse and potential revival of the historic White Brothers Livery. Sam Savarino was able to take ownership of it yesterday for $1, and thus insure maximum effort and ability towards restoring it. That's a far cry from the original $400,000 asking price for a building assessed at $40,000. After allowing it to deteriorate, the previous owner didn't want to take responsibility for his lack of action. Surprise, surprise.

This started me wandering, camera in hand, to another old building in the area. Sort of a "whatever happened to" type of thing.

Also on the west side is the Breckenridge Street Church (pictured) which was built in 1827. Located at the end of Breckenridge, it too was the focus of much hand-wringing until Rich Products agreed to preserve it. I think that means mothball it, but at least it's not demolished.

The Breckenridge Street Church (also known as the Union Meeting House) exists on land that was originally part of a large parcel owned by Peter Porter, of Porter Avenue and War of 1812 fame. Supposedly when President Grover Cleveland was in town he attended services there. It is now classified as a warehouse.

Right around the corner from it, at 19 Mason Street, is a little house that was built in 1800. That means (if the date is accurate) that it survived the War of 1812, in which most of Buffalo was burned to the ground.

Although Mason is listed as a street, it actually is a narrow alley. Located among warehouses, it's easy to miss - I thought it was a driveway for loading docks. The house itself is the only residence left on the street that at one time overlooked the Niagara River.

Currently, the Mason Street House has bars on the windows and doors. It has siding on it, so it has been taken care of but lacks the "original look". However, it's so isolated that I wouldn't want to be there after the workers have left for the day (as a matter of fact, even with a worker visible I didn't get out of the car).

It doesn't seem to be architecturally significant, and other than being old, nothing special. I would think it's construction and interior details would be historically interesting though, unless it was gutted somewhere along the line.

The Mason Street House survived the burning of Buffalo...that alone should count for something!

(the map is from 1894 and is part of the City of Buffalo Atlas located on the Erie County/Real Property website; click on sections within for detail)

Update: More pictures of the church and the little house on Mason