Every Monday this month, we’re sharing a unique postcard from Niagara’s past, along with some of the history behind the image.

This week, we’re taking a look at the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Center.

The crown jewel of the Urban Renewal program, The convention center was a stunningly massive piece of modern architecture, opened to glorious fanfare on 1974. It would go on to host the likes of Elvis, Miss USA, and 18,000 bowlers.

At the center of the Niagara Falls convention center was E. Dent Lackey plaza, named after the (in)famous leader of Urban Renewal in the Falls.

In 2003, the convention center was converted into the Seneca Niagara Casino, which now makes the building and the land sovereign territory. Lackey Plaza has also been demolished: a fitting end to the legacy of one of the most incendiary mayors in the city’s history.

-Sheepie ❤