Frank Perew, was a prominent vessel master and owner, as well as a freight forwarder and real estate investor. He was appointed to the Buffalo Board of Park Commissioners in May, 1876, serving until August, 1879 when he resigned the position.
Frank Perew was born 1826 in Clayton, NY, and began a life on the Great Lakes sailor as a youth. He steadily advanced himself to more responsible positions, and became a very capable vessel master and the owner of a number of lake vessels, beginning in the sail era, and then into the era of steel hulled, coal powered bulk carrier lake boats. He was so well known on the lakes that no fewer than 3 boats and a tug were named after him.
Captain Perew died at his home on Vermont street in Buffalo on 4 July 1898, after a lengthy period as an invalid. He is buried in Forest Lawn cemetery.
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