VISION OF VISITORS’ CENTER BECOMING A REALITY (03/2000) The MHRC Visitors’ Center is one step closer to reality, thanks to a $2,000,000 grant awarded by The John R. Oishei Foundation of Buffalo. The foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life for the Buffalo community by supporting medical research, health care, education, and cultural, social, civic and other charitable needs. In presenting the award, Erland E. Kailbourne, Oishei Foundation board chairman, said, “we were impressed with the potential role of the Darwin Martin House as a destination tourist attraction and one that will play a focal point of cultural tourism in our region. The Martin House will make a major difference for Buffalo and the region in the new century. With this award, we wish to assure that visitors from around the world are received as impressively as possible. Thomas Baker, executive director of the Foundation, referred to the house as one of the most significant cultural assets in the Olmsted Crescent. “When restored,” he added, “the Martin House will serve as a principal attraction, drawing many first-time visitors to the region who will then have the opportunity to enjoy the City’s other fine assets.” The MHRC is in the process of selecting a exhibition design firm, from among 17 applicants, that will work with our restoration architects, curator, and planning committee to begin design on a world-class Visitors’ Center planned for the site currently occupied by one of the non-historic apartment buildings. Visitor ticketing, interpretive exhibits, the Wisteria museum shop, and educational and gallery spaces will be housed there.