Скачать или смотреть Driving Through Clarence, New York

Clarence Center is a picturesque, affluent hamlet and census-designated place (CDP) located within the Town of Clarence in Erie County, New York. Part of the Buffalo–Niagara Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area, Clarence Center has built a reputation for its charming small-town feel, well-preserved history, strong community identity, and suburban appeal. As of the 2021 estimate, the population stood at 3,337—a reflection of its steady residential desirability.

Though modest in population, Clarence Center holds an outsized role in the town's layout and culture. Located in the south-central region of Clarence, it is home to many municipal facilities, and while the official town hall falls under the Clarence ZIP code, Clarence Center’s own postal zone—ZIP code 14032—encompasses much of the town’s northern section.
History: From Van Tines Corners to Clarence Center

Founded in 1823, Clarence Center was originally known as Van Tines Corners, named after an early settler family. Its transformation from a rural stop into a central hub was largely due to the “Peanut” Line—a nickname for the rail line that reached the community in 1853. This railway brought industry, commerce, and visitors, and the local station was formally named “Clarence Center.”

Rail service continued for over a century, but was discontinued on December 31, 1977, ending an era. In a nod to its roots, the former railroad bed was converted into a scenic cycling and hiking trail, still affectionately referred to as the “Peanut Line.”
Colgan Air Flight 3407: A Tragic Moment in Clarence Center History

Clarence Center became the focus of national attention on February 12, 2009, when Colgan Air Flight 3407, a Continental Connection turboprop en route to Buffalo Niagara International Airport, crashed into a house on Long Street at approximately 10:20 PM. Tragically, 50 people perished, including all 44 passengers, five crew members, and one person on the ground.

The incident deeply affected the community, prompting a wave of support and reflection across the region. Roads in the neighborhood remained closed for days as investigations and memorials took place. The crash left a lasting mark on Clarence Center, uniting its residents in grief and resilience.
Geography and Setting

Clarence Center sits at 43°0′40″N, 78°38′5″W, occupying approximately 2.1 square miles (5.4 km²) of all land. As its name suggests, the hamlet is located near the center of the Town of Clarence. Despite its central geographic location, Clarence Center comprises the northernmost residential concentration within the town.

The area is defined by its rural-suburban blend, featuring tree-lined streets, historic homes, and open green spaces. A biking and hiking trail connects Clarence Center to Akron, New York, in the east and to Transit Road (NY Route 78) to the west, providing both recreational and commuter accessibility.