:: HISTORY ::

Erie Beach was the site of the American Victory over the British in the War of 1812 and a path to the underground railway that assisted slaves escaping the US during the Civil War.

In 1885 Erie Beach began its glittering career as a modest family picnic grove. In 1901 it was dubbed Fort Erie Grove & Merry-go-round..an indication of things to come.

Frank V. E. Bardol, an entrepreneur and contactor tuned the picnic grove in 1910 into an entertainment complex, attracting up to 50,000 people in a single day. The famous Casino was completed in 1911 and at it's time was the most modern dance hall, presenting at the entrance the largest outdoors swimming pool.

Prohibition in the US during the twenties caused an increase in visitors at Erie Beach via excursion boats from Buffalo. Dancing, swimming, a zoo, and athletic field & stadium featuring top entertainers, gardens & luxurious promenades were features which resulted in Erie Beach being proclaimed as Buffalo's answer to Atlantic City.

The Peace Bridge connecting Canada and the US was completed in 1927 and Erie Beach closed in 1930.

     Photos courtesy of Cathy Herbert