DINNERWARE CELEBRATES MARTIN HOUSE AND BUFFALO CHINA CONNECTION (02/2002) The MHRC is proud to introduce Centennial Edition Martin House dinnerware by Buffalo China. The custom designed china, patterned after Frank Lloyd Wright’s art-glass pattern for the windows of the Martin House conservatory, was developed in a unique collaboration between the MHRC and Buffalo China, celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2001. What are the connections between Buffalo China and the Martin House? Darwin Martin was a top executive with the Larkin Soap Company of Buffalo, New York and became the first secretary of the newly formed Buffalo Pottery in 1901, a company created by John Larkin to produce “premiums” to accompany soap sales. These household goods, offered in combination with low prices for Larkin products, were sped to consumers via the Rural Free Delivery System, providing American housewives with additional incentive to buy soap in quantity. By 1901, when the Larkin Company participated at the Pan American Exposition in Buffalo, china and dinner sets had become popular fare as premiums. The new company was created to increase cost effectiveness in producing these chinaware items. Buffalo Pottery became Buffalo China in 1956. One hundred years later, Buffalo China is still going strong as a leading producer of highly durable tableware, particularly for the hospitality industry. Martin House Centennial Edition dinnerware brings the association between them and Darwin Martin full circle. Dinner sets and accessory pieces may be purchased on this site, or call 716.856.3858