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From the Gowanda PennySaver News "Reflections" series compiled by Mary Pankow. issue date - December 16, 2001

Undated photo

J. Straub Carriage Manufactory - Joseph Straub, blacksmith and wagon maker, comes to Gowanda about 1858 and opens a business on Buffalo Street. According to a scrapbook dated 1898, "Soon after coming here, he made a buggy for Samuel Munger, which has been in almost constant use ever since, it having never been run away with or given out in any particular. It has been repaired and cut down and is yet in good condition and a handy conveyance. Its first cost was $150, more than three times the present prices." In 1899, the news reads, "The carriage shop of Joseph Straub on Buffalo Street has been made into a store for the new clothiers and the corner window is a very fine one. Altogether it presents a good appearance." Straub passes away on 1901 at about 70 years of age. A charter member of the A.O.U.W., he is survived by his wife, two sons and two daughters. (Photo courtesy of Gowanda Area Historical Society.)