By Pat McGonigle
Every weekend, ten thousand people used to fill the boardwalk in Charlotte to swim, ride rollercoasters and even watch wild animal tamers. The glory days from the turn of the 20th century are long gone, but some volunteers are working hard to keep that history alive.
"These are memories we want to save for future generations," said Marie Poinan, a member of the Charlotte Village and Transportation Museum Board.
Right now, the "museum" is an assorted group of volunteers, ancient photographs and memorabilia from 100 years ago. But with a new pledge of support from the Rochester City Council, Poinan hopes to have a brick-and-mortar location by the end of the year. The council approved $27,000 in neighborhood development funds towards securing a building for the Charlotte Museum.
Poinan says the facility won't just be old photographs, however.
"We're thinking about classes on boat building and programs on railroad history in the area," said Poinan. "A lot of outdoor programming."
State Assemblymen Joe Robach and Joe Morelle are also pledging some financial assistance from Albany for this project.
Poinan says the museum board members are currently in negotiations to secure a building for the museum, so they can't reveal a potential location. The board hopes to have the Charlotte Village and Transportation Museum open by the end of the year.