Cheektowaga, NY, has a rich history that has shaped the community into what it is today. The town’s story begins long before European settlers arrived, rooted in the lives of the Native American peoples who first called this land home. Over the centuries, Cheektowaga, New York, has evolved from its indigenous roots as a hunting ground to a thriving suburban town, marked by periods of growth, industrial development, and cultural transformation.
The name Cheektowaga itself is a testament to its indigenous heritage, derived from the Erie-Seneca word “Ji-ik-do-wah-gah,” meaning “place of the crabapple tree.” The Neutrals originally inhabited this area, and later, the Seneca tribe of the Iroquois League used the land primarily for hunting and fishing. One notable early settlement was Falls Village, situated along the north bank of Cayuga Creek, where longhouses stretched from Borden Road to Union Road. This rich Native American history laid the foundation for the town’s identity long before it became part of the United States.
Revolutionary Change and Early Settlements
The Revolutionary War brought dramatic changes to the region. Following the defeat of the Six Nations, including the Seneca, these tribes were compelled to cede their lands and relocate to reservations. The southern part of what is now Cheektowaga, NY, was once part of the Buffalo Creek Indian Reservation.
The transition of land ownership to European settlers began with the Holland Land Company, which purchased vast tracts of land in Western New York. Early settlers, such as Apollo Hitchcock, arrived in 1808, establishing farms, mills, and distilleries that would become the backbone of the community. Hitchcock and his family were influential civic leaders who made significant contributions to the town’s early development and governance.
Birth of a Town: Governance and Growth in the 19th Century
By the early 19th century, Cheektowaga, NY, was part of a larger township before being officially established as its own town in 1839, following a division from Amherst. The first town meeting took place at Elnathan Bennett’s residence, with Alexander Hitchcock, son of Appollos, serving as the first town supervisor.
This period also saw the establishment of the Ebenezer Community of True Inspiration within the township, a communal experiment that later became part of the neighboring town of West Seneca. The early economy was largely agricultural, with farmers producing crops and livestock that supported nearby Buffalo and Black Rock, connecting to markets via the Erie Canal.
Rails and Trolleys: Transportation Shaping Cheektowaga
The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century marked a significant turning point for Cheektowaga, New York. Rail lines cut through the town, encouraging the development of suburbs and new villages such as Depew and Sloan. The electric trolley system further accelerated growth, facilitating the development of residential subdivisions and expanding the town’s population.
However, by the 1930s, trolley lines were abandoned, reflecting shifts in transportation trends. The 20th century introduced new forms of connectivity with the establishment of the Buffalo Municipal Airport in the 1920s and the construction of the New York State Thruway, which included three major interchanges within Cheektowaga, New York. These transportation hubs positioned the town as a prime location for industrial expansion during and after World War II.
Industrial Boom and Suburban Expansion
Industrial growth transformed Cheektowaga, NY, from a rural farming community into a thriving suburban and industrial town. Factories such as the Westinghouse Electric Corporation plant provided employment opportunities for decades. The post-war era witnessed rapid residential development, particularly in the northern parts of the town, which had lost much of its rural character.
Modern schools and infrastructure have been built to support the growing population. By 1939, the town’s population was approximately 25,000, but it surged to over 84,000 by 1960 and reached nearly 99,000 by 1990. This growth reflects the town’s ongoing appeal as a center of commerce, industry, and community life.
A Community of Culture and Progress
Today, Cheektowaga, New York, stands as one of the most progressive towns in the state, balancing its rich historical legacy with modern development. Its diverse population includes a significant Polish-American community, which contributes to the town’s cultural fabric. Landmarks such as St. John Gualbert’s Parish and the Shrine of the Holy Relics of the Saints highlight the town’s cultural and religious heritage.
The Walden Galleria, opened in 1989, is a commercial hub that draws visitors from across the region. The town’s history is preserved and celebrated by organizations like the Cheektowaga Historical Association, ensuring that the story of this community continues to inspire future generations.
Looking Back, Moving Forward
Reflecting on Cheektowaga, NY, I see a town that has continually adapted and grown while honoring its rich past. From its indigenous roots and agricultural beginnings to its role as an industrial and suburban center, the town’s history is a testament to resilience and progress. The people of Cheektowaga, NY, have built a community that values its heritage and looks confidently toward the future, making it a remarkable example of American town development.
Sources: tocny.org, buffalo.palmercare.com, en.wikipedia.org
Header Image Source: tocny.org
