Meet Thora VanHorn, who began giving her time and expertise to the Martin House Museum Store after retiring as the buyer for the Millard Fillmore Gates Circle Hospital gift shop. She is proud to have been the first paid buyer in a hospital gift shop in Buffalo, paving the way for others with her skills.
Thora was born in Lyon’s Falls, NY, a small town nestled between Utica and Watertown. Her graduating class was comprised of six students, so it’s no surprise she spent a few years in New York City working in retail and living the big city life. After meeting her husband, a Buffalo resident, she moved to the city in 1963 and has called Buffalo home since that time.
Now at 82-years-old, Thora spends one day each week assisting the team in the Museum Store, a commitment she first made fifteen years ago. This busy volunteer can also be spotted at the BPO and Serendipity Thrift Shop. To say she keeps busy is an understatement.
Why the Martin House? “The Martin House is a fascinating place, and I’ve been able to witness the incredible restoration,” said Thora. “And while I’m able to use my skills to help with the operations of the store, I love the other volunteers and staff members that I get to work with each week.”
Thanks to Thora VanHorn for her dedication to the Martin House.
Interested in hearing about volunteer opportunities at the Martin House?
