Buffalo has a rich history of industrial greatness, immortalized still by the presence of the grain elevators on the shores of Lake Erie. Take a virtual trip back in time to 1943 to see how Buffalonians lived, worked, and played during the World War II era.
Buffalo’s industrial presence was growing.
Marjory Collins
Workers were kept busy emptying wheat from grain boats into the grain elevators.
Marjory Collins
Patriotism was thriving in the midst of WWII.
Royden Dixon
Women were urged to join the workforce.
Marjory Collins
Many women worked on repairing locomotive wheels for the railroad industry…
Marjory Collins
… and on the lines at Republic Steel.
Marjory Collins
Despite the war, Buffalo’s population made attempts at resuming normal life. Some took to shopping as they sought normalcy.
Marjory Collins
Others enjoyed celebrations that allowed them to temporarily forget the conflict.
Marjory Collins
For some, the “late-night moving picture show” was a perfect reprieve from daily stress.
Marjory Collins
And, of course, many enjoyed Buffalo’s night life at the soda bar and “Swingshift dances” held at the Main-Utica Ballroom.
Marjory Collins
Marjory Collins
If only we could have seen it in color! Have you heard tales of Buffalo’s fascninating history from the 1940’s? Share your stories with us in the comment section below.
Marjory Collins
Royden Dixon
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