A new pictorial history book "Tonawanda and North Tonawanda: 1940-1960," is set to be released Oct. 6th..
Authored by the Historical Society of the Tonawandas, the book has over 200 pictures of the past.
Between the years 1940 and 1960, Tonawanda and North Tonawanda virtually redefined themselves. The waning lumber industry gave way to manufacturing that accommodated first the war effort and then postwar market demands.
After the war, soldiers returned to family life, and the baby boom began.
New homes, schools, and roads were built, local industries expanded, businesses took root. Jobs were plentiful, as were consumer goods such as televisions, modern appliances and cars. Community pride was evident, with volunteers swelling the ranks of fire companies, churches, and service clubs. Downtown had shops, department stores, restaurants, and there were entertainment venues such as the Riviera and Melody Fair.
"Tonawanda and North Tonawanda: 1940-1960" celebrates an era when teenagers attended school dances and hung out at Zeffery's, the Sugar Bowl, and Pee Wee's Pizzeria.
The book includes many previously unpublished photographs, made available by local families, several of them of well-known personalities such as Dr. Jennie Harris, Stan Warren, and Jim Hurtubise.
Its authors think that readers will be intrigued by the obvious postwar camaraderie - evident in the book - that literally permeated the community on all levels: residents, local businesses and even industry.
People were eager to build a great community together.
The book is or soon will be available at area bookstores, independent retailers, online retailers, or through the publisher, Arcadia Publishing at (888)-313-2665. |