Though in decline for the last 50 years, Buffalo still enjoys a central role in the northeastern seaboard. It is the second largest city in the State of New York, trailing (by a fair margin) behind New York City. In a historical context, many important things have gone on here. Before the St. Lawrence Seaway was opened, Buffalo was an important town at the end of the Erie canal. Many industries eventually moved out once the St. Lawrence Seaway opened trade routes to the Atlantic through the shorter canal system.

As a border city, Buffalo has strong ties to Canada. It was heavily involved in the War of 1812, and the underground railroad. With the completion of the Peace Bridge in 1927, its role as an important land crossing to Canada was cemented into history.

Despite declining population numbers, Buffalo has remained at the heart of many important developments. Frank Lloyd Wright built many of his designs in Buffalo. The Bell Helicopter started its glorious track record here in Bell Aircraft Corporation's original headquarters. Buffalo Wings, a pub favorite across the continent, owes its name to this city.

Buffalo is still a great place to live and is well connected by roads to major cities like Toronto and New York City. It is definitely one of those nexus cities that will never disappear off the map.