Old 1st Ward Community Association

The Irish who came to Buffalo in the 1800’s settled in what became the «First Ward» area. They worked in the grain mills and other business in that area. The area grew quickly, families were raised, corner stores opened, lots of taverns found customers. It was a self contained area, the people came and did not have to go anywhere else, they found housing, work, play and shopping in the area.
Over time the area changed, the mills closed, families moved to the suburbs. What was called «The First Ward» is now called «The Old First Ward» by many. There remains lots of history in the area, and some of the families stayed and passed down houses over the years. IN the 1970s this Association was founded to provide a community center among other thins. Over the years the Association has changed focus as the needs of the area have changed.
Members of the Association have taken pet projects on and gotten things done. RiverFest Park is one example. A park that did not exist before is now a great place to go for families. You can access the Buffalo River from there and kayak. Have a picnic. Visit with friends or just take a walk along the water.
Associations like these can be the backbone of an area, and this is a good example of that.
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