History

Our History

Van Buren Point is an historic summer community that has welcomed families for generations. Some cottages have been cherished by the same families for over 80 years. Notably, Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain) owned lot 10 at Van Buren Point from 1879 until 1882.

The origins of Van Buren Point date back to 1784, when it was known as Van Buren Harbor. The documents and photographs below offer a glimpse into the rich history of our community.

If you have historical pictures or documents, please let us know so that we can share them here.

Please email them to vbpboard@gmail.com.

articles and historic content

Van Buren Point Sales Brochure

This fascinating brochure describes VBP as it was in the (early) 40s. Produced by A-K-D Printing Company, Erie PA

A Brief History of Van Buren Point (1974)

This document was presented at the Commemoration of the 25th Anniversary of the Community Center in July, 1974

Updated History of Van Buren Point (1999)

This document was presented by the Women's Club at the 50th Anniversary of the Community Center in July, 1999

Community Center and Women's Club

This document has original materials from the formation of the Community Center and Women's Club

Andy's Store

This brief summary from 2008 describes the history of Andy's store

About Mark Twain and VBP

This document describes Samuel Clemens' connection to the region and details his brief property ownership at Van Buren Point

Dunkirk Evening Observer

This document has various articles clipped from the Dunkirk Evening Observer between 1911 and 1950.

Buffalo News Items

This document has various articles clipped from The Buffalo Times, Buffalo Morning Express and Buffalo Evening News

Jan Wattterworth History

Jan Watterworth recalls her years at VBP dating back to the late 1930's.