KeyBank and the First Niagara Foundation Provide Generous Support

We are pleased to announce that KeyBank, in partnership with the First Niagara Foundation, is investing $100,000 in Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House. This gift will support the Martin House Endowment Fund, created to preserve and sustain the historic site, ensuring that future generations will have the opportunity to experience and learn about world-class architecture, design, and landscape.

“For both locals and tourists, the Martin House is a cultural destination that brings many to Buffalo each year. It is a symbol of architectural excellence and part of the rich fabric of the history of our region,” said Elizabeth Gurney, Director of Corporate Philanthropy for KeyBank and Executive Director of the First Niagara Foundation. “KeyBank and the First Niagara Foundation are proud to help protect and preserve the Martin House so people from across the world will be able to experience this marvel for decades to come.”

“The ongoing investments from KeyBank and the First Niagara Foundation confirm the importance of preservation heritage and architectural tourism, and this generous gift to the Martin House Endowment Fund highlights the importance of securing our future.” said Mary Roberts, Executive Director of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House. “It’s inspiring and gratifying to be a part of the community’s effort to support our city’s resurgence.”

A premier heritage destination in New York’s network of historic sites that was built between 1903 and 1905, the Martin House was designed by acclaimed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright as the city home for Buffalo business executive Darwin D. Martin and his family. Located at 125 Jewett Parkway in Buffalo, the six-building estate is considered one of the great achievements of Wright’s career, resulting from a remarkable partnership between client and architect. The Martin House is characterized by its spatial openness, horizontal planes, pier and cantilever construction, and palette of natural colors and materials.

With the resolve of many, an ambitious restoration effort to save this treasure began in earnest in 1992 and was completed in 2019. Today, the Martin House stands as a compelling symbol of civic identity and cultural pride. It is a National Historic Landmark and a premier heritage destination within New York State’s network of historic sites.

The Martin House Endowment Fund has been established to seize specific opportunities that continue to provide a world-class visitor experience for generations to come. The fund will be a source of stable, predictable, and growing financial support for the future, enriching the buildings and collections, historic gardens and landscape on the estate while also creating opportunity for vibrant learning experiences and providing support for emergencies.

Since 2002, KeyBank and the First Niagara Foundation have given Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House nearly $700,000 in grant support. Currently in spend down mode, the First Niagara Foundation anticipates continuing grant making until sometime in 2022.