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With a population of around 15,130 as of the 2020 census, Tonawanda is a small but thriving city located just north of Buffalo in Erie County, New York. Known as the "Lumber City" due to its history in the lumber industry, Tonawanda sits on the Niagara River and Erie Canal, offering beautiful waterfront views and plenty of recreational opportunities.

History of Tonawanda

The Tonawanda area was originally inhabited by the Neutral Nation Native Americans. In 1805, the Holland Land Company surveyed the area and laid out the village of Tonawanda. By 1830, Tonawanda had grown into an important lumber port on the Niagara River and Erie Canal. The city was incorporated in 1853.

By the early 1900s, Tonawanda was home to over a dozen lumber yards and planing mills. Although the lumber industry declined in the 1920s, Tonawanda continued to grow as a manufacturing center. Major employers included the Tonawanda Iron and Steel Company, later taken over by Bethlehem Steel, and Spaulding Fibre, which produced vulcanized fibre.

To learn more about the history of Tonawanda, visit the Tonawanda Public Library website or Tonawanda Historical Museum.

Economy and Major Employers

Today, manufacturing remains an important part of Tonawanda's economy. Major employers include:

• Praxair, Inc. - 1 Lafayette Ave, Tonawanda NY 14150, (716) 879-4077 - Industrial gases
• Tonawanda Engine Plant - 2995 River Rd, Buffalo, NY 14207, (716) 871-9109 - Automotive engines
• DuPont - 251 River Rd, Buffalo, NY 14207, (716) 879-3360 - Advanced materials
• Arkema Inc. - 900 Maple Rd, Buffalo, NY 14150, (716) 871-4848 - Specialty chemicals

Other major industries include healthcare, education, retail and tourism. The city is home to Kenmore Mercy Hospital as well as a federal veterans medical center. For more on the Tonawanda economy, visit the Tonawanda Chamber of Commerce website.

Attractions and Landmarks

One of Tonawanda's most iconic landmarks is the historic Tonawanda Carousel located at 100 Broad St, Tonawanda, NY 14150. This early 1900s carousel features over 50 hand-carved and hand-painted animals and chariots.

Other notable attractions include:

• Tonawanda Historical Museum - 100 Niagara St, Tonawanda NY 14150
• Aquarium of Niagara - 701 Whirlpool St, Niagara Falls, NY 14301
• Niagara Falls State Park - 332 Prospect St, Niagara Falls, NY 14303

Outdoor recreational opportunities abound, including biking along the Erie Canal trail, boating on the Niagara River, and enjoying the parks and preserves.

Geography and Climate

Tonawanda is located at 43.0165° N, 78.8726° W. It has a humid continental climate, with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. The Niagara River and Erie Canal define the western border of the city.

Government

Tonawanda has a mayor-council form of government. The current mayor is Rick Davis. Contact information for Tonawanda City Hall is:

Tonawanda is located within Erie County. Visit the Erie County website to learn more about county government services and information.

Education

Tonawanda is served by the Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda Union Free School District. The district operates 6 elementary schools, 2 middle schools, 1 high school, and 1 alternative learning center. Visit the district website to learn more.

Higher education options include nearby Buffalo State College, University at Buffalo, Niagara County Community College, Niagara University, and Trocaire College.

Transportation

Tonawanda is served by the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority's bus and metro rail system. The Buffalo Niagara International Airport is a 15 minute drive from Tonawanda. Major highways include I-290, I-190, NY 266, and NY 324.

For more on getting around Tonawanda, visit the NFTA website.

Things to Do

Tonawanda offers many fun activities and events for visitors and residents alike. Enjoy a ride on the historic carousel, take in a minor league baseball game at the Buffalo Bisons stadium, walk or bike along the picturesque Niagara riverfront, visit one of the many parks, or explore the shops and restaurants downtown.

Annual events include the Lumber City Festival, Taste of Tonawanda, Music Fest, and Christmas in the City. For more on local happenings, check out Tonawanda's Facebook page.

Living in Tonawanda

With its small-town feel, natural beauty, strong sense of community and proximity to Buffalo's big city amenities, Tonawanda is an attractive place to call home. Housing options range from historic homes to new developments. The median home value is around $150,000.

Tonawanda offers a vibrant parks system, top-rated schools, and family-friendly amenities. Low taxes and cost of living, safe streets and neighborhoods, and ample employment opportunities add to the appeal.

To learn more about living in Tonawanda, contact the Chamber of Commerce or visit the city's website.

Google Map of Tonawanda, NY