Larkinville facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Larkinville
The Hydraulics
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Neighborhood of Buffalo
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Larkin Square in 2014
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 Larkinville
Location in New York
Larkinville
Location in the United States
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| Country |  United States |
| State |  New York |
| County | Erie County |
| City | Buffalo |
Larkinville, also known as The Hydraulics, is a cool area in Buffalo, New York. It's located close to downtown Buffalo, South Buffalo, and Canalside. This neighborhood used to be a big industrial area.
Today, Larkinville is a lively spot with offices, shops, and a public space called Larkin Square. You can often find food trucks there, along with fun events and concerts. The neighborhood changed a lot because old factory buildings, especially those from the Larkin Soap Company, were fixed up and given new life. This process of improving an area is sometimes called gentrification.
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History of Larkinville
How Larkinville Got Its Start
In 1827, a group called the Buffalo Hydraulic Association was formed. They built the Hydraulic Canal. This canal was the first way to power factories in Buffalo. Soon, many mills started popping up in the area. This is why the neighborhood was first called The Hydraulics.
The Larkin Company Era
In 1876, a man named John D. Larkin began making soap in this neighborhood. This was the start of his famous company. It grew into a huge mail-order soap business by the early 1900s. People would order soap and other goods directly from the company, and they would be mailed to their homes.
By 1901, there were 87 shops on Seneca Street, between Larkin and Smith streets. Many of these businesses were in large warehouses and buildings. Some of these old buildings are still standing today! Famous buildings like the Larkin Administration Building and the Larkin Terminal Warehouse were built between 1902 and 1912. The Larkin Company did very well until the 1930s. After John Larkin passed away and the Great Depression hit, the company eventually closed in the 1940s. Sadly, the Larkin Administration Building was torn down in 1950.
Larkinville's Modern Comeback
In 2002, a group called the Larkin Development Group bought the Larkin Terminal Warehouse. Fixing up this building started a big change for the Hydraulics neighborhood. The Larkin Development Group bought many other buildings in the area. Their goal was to create a lively neighborhood with many different uses.
By 2012, Larkin Square officially opened. The Filling Station restaurant also opened its doors. More renovated buildings followed in later years. Since then, Larkinville has become a popular place for entertainment. It now has both homes and businesses, making it a vibrant community once again.
Cool Places to Visit in Larkinville
Larkinville is home to several interesting buildings and attractions. Here are some of the highlights:
- Larkin Terminal Warehouse: This is a huge 10-story building that used to be a warehouse. Now, it holds offices for big organizations like The John R. Oishei Foundation, Kaleida Health, and KeyBank.
- Remains of the Larkin Administration Building: You can still visit the spot where this famous building once stood. It's a reminder of the area's rich history.
- Larkin Square: This is the main gathering spot in Larkinville. It hosts many fun events:
- Food Truck Tuesdays: A popular event where many different food trucks gather.
- Larkin Live Wednesdays: Enjoy live music and entertainment.
- The Filling Station: This unique restaurant used to be a gas station!
- The Hydraulic Hearth Restaurant and Brewery: Located at 716 Swan Street, it's a great place to eat and drink.
- Buffalo Distilling Co.: Find this distillery in the Dutchman Building.
- Swan Street Diner: A classic diner experience at 700 Swan Street.
