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'Women had a very big impact on the house': Martin House offers a new way to learn about the space's history

Posted at 8:19 PM, Mar 17, 2024
and last updated 2024-03-19 16:53:07-04

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — The Martin House in Buffalo was designed by renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

However, it wasn't solely based on Wright's vision.

To ring in Women's History Month, staff want to highlight the impact that women had on the house's appearance and the impressive lives they led.

Executive Director Jessie Fisher said that their stories deserve to be heard — just like those of Isabelle Martin.

"She was really involved in a lot of women's groups across Buffalo in those early days when they were all just starting, some of which exist today," said Fisher.

She added that Martin loved flowers which led her to find a passion in creating floral arrangements as well as a garden at her home.

"She grew these beautiful orchids which we still grow today in the conservatory," said Fisher.

Communications Manager Kellie Mazur said that as Martin aged, she developed an eye condition that led to her needing a live-in companion.

"They read a lot together, Isabelle was a very avid reader," said Mazur.

The two women were known to have read many progressive books together.

"Even in that time, they were sort of pushing the envelope which I think is very cool to know about them," said Mazur.

The "Women of the Martin House Tour" is scheduled for Friday, March 22.

The staff said they plan to have the tour return in May for Mother's Day due to the community's overwhelming support.

For more information on how you can get tickets to the tour, you can visit the Martin House website.