Toussaint
Sanborn Map of Cedar and William in Buffalo, NY 1925- Feb. 1951, vol.2 1926-Apr. 1950 sheet 189.
A 1937 Buffalo Evening News article describing the performance of Louis Armstrong at Tousaint's resturant.
Known Name(s)
Toussaint
Address
292 Williams St. Buffalo, NY
Establishment Type(s)
Tavern
Physical Status
Demolished
Description
Toussaint was located in a four-story building on the northeast corner of William and Cedar. It had a Mansard roof clad in composition shingles. The walls were 12 inches thick, and the height from the ground to the eaves was 38 feet according to the updated 1950 Sanborn map. The building extended down Cedar with multiple additions, one- and two-story on height, including one labeled "Amusement Mach. Sales and Service." On William, the building was flanked by a large show room for furniture.
Detailed History
Little is known about Toussaint other than it being a tavern. It was on William Street within the commercial section of the African American neighborhood on Buffalo's East Side. The Bison Upholstered Furniture Company showroom and factory was adjacent. A 1937 Buffalo Evening News article describes an incredible performance by legendary African American Jazz musician Louis Armstrong. The lot is currently occupied by new houses.
