Buffalo Religous Art Museum – Preserving The Diverse Buffalo Culture

https://www.buffalorising.com/2013/09/the-buffalo-religious-arts-museum/

By Brett DeNeve:  Buffalo Rising

Mary Holland, founder of The Buffalo Religious Arts Museum located at 157 East Street of the “Black Rock” community in Buffalo, opened the paper in 2007 to see a two page article on local churches closing down. The article’s accompanying pictures spoke to her even more than the text. Holland had heard horror stories of stained glass windows being kept in awful condition in Las Vegas and baptismal founts being used for coolers. All of the outstanding historical architecture within these buildings had to go somewhere. These pieces of art had to be worth more than a price tag during a liquidation event or a few weeks’ pay for a demolition squad and some gas in a bulldozer. She knew she had to do something, and fast.

“If I could only save one piece, I would,” she thought.

The Museum, purchased in 2008, was formerly known as “The St. Francis Xavier Roman Catholic German Church.” The parish itself was founded in 1849 primarily due to the parents of German-speaking children wanting a school. So before the church was even constructed, a school had been built on the premises.

When Holland walked through the doors of the church for the first time her attention went straight to the murals on the back wall.

“We can’t turn the heat off,” she said.

If they did the murals would begin to fade and peel away.

And then it clicked; this building would no longer be a church, but a museum. It could be used to preserve and protect artifacts that should not leave Buffalo, and so it has.

It is a three-step process: preserve the building, obtain artwork from closing churches in the area, and preserve the art as well. Buffalo has lost approximately fifty churches. In recent years, the total count could top a thousand closed doors from Northeastern cities alone: Chicago, Boston, Albany, and Columbus Ohio to name a few.

Holland has done an outstanding job, collecting work from Bavarian-born, German-born, Italian-born, and Polish-born artists. Diverse in nature, this historical collection is resonant of the countless numbers of European immigrants that came to this country or Buffalo in particular, in search of a better life.

“My dream would be that people understand the importance of this art and architecture and that they come to Buffalo to see these churches that are still standing. People will go to Europe to visit churches that have nothing to do with how religious or non-religious they are, people just go there. I think they can come to Buffalo because we have some pretty outstanding buildings,” said Holland.

To better get an idea of what this ethnic-rich atmosphere feels like, feel free to check them out online. Also, Squeaky Wheel, a nonprofit media arts center, is featuring a program called the Buffalo Youth Media Institute. This program challenges children grades eight through twelve for three months every summer to create their own documentaries. The presentations of their finished work will be held at the Burchfield Penny Art Center on Sunday, September 15th from 1:30 P.M. to 4 P.M. and Participant Noah G Williams has chosen to do his project on Holland’s Museum.

Holy Cards

Here’s is a collection of Holy Cards that were sent to us this week by a lady in Springville NY.  These cards date back to 1879.  We are very grateful for the wonderful surprise donation.

If you are cleaning and find anything like this, the Art Center would like to have it.

Photography and Artifacts

This is another example of the artifacts and photography we would like to collect. If you have anything like this and would like to donate it to our collection, please contact us.

Do you have anything medals like this at your house? You may not think it is important, but we do! We collect old church memorabilia, rosaries, wedding pictures, prayer books, especially First Communion prayer books and photos from before 1950. Please let us know – we might add it to our collection

May 1918 - First Communion at Nativity Church on the west side of Buffalo, which is now closed. Their dresses were hand made by their mother.Do you have anything medals like this at your house? You may not think it is important, but we do! We collec…

May 1918 - First Communion at Nativity Church on the west side of Buffalo, which is now closed. Their dresses were hand made by their mother.Do you have anything medals like this at your house? You may not think it is important, but we do! We collect old church memorabilia, rosaries, wedding pictures, prayer books, especially First Communion prayer books and photos from before 1950. Please let us know - we might add it to our collection

Coming up May 18th and May 19th, Buffalo Alliance for Sacred Places, Sacred Sites Open House Weekend!

The National Trust Conference, hosted in Buffalo in October 2011, put our city’s architectural treasury of civic, sacred and residential landmarks “front and center” for a national audience. In the aftermath of this high profile event, a new collaborative, titled the Buffalo Alliance for Sacred Places, was formed “to promote the preservation and appreciation of the art, architecture and history of Buffalo’s houses of worship.” The member organizations are First Presbyterian Church, Blessed Trinity Church, Corpus Christi Church, the Chapel at Forest Lawn Cemetery and the Buffalo Religious Arts Center. Each site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Buffalo Alliance sites have chosen to participate in The New York Landmarks Conservancy’s third annual Sacred Sites Open House Weekend on May 18-19, joining dozens of religious institutions throughout New York State in welcoming the public to special programming during this unique event, as follows:

Blessed Trinity Church, 317 Leroy Avenue
Tours/Open House
Saturday, May 18 from 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Sunday, May 19 from 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Information at: www.blessedtrinitybuffalo.org or 716-833-0301

Blessed Trinity is recognized as the purest replication of Lombard-Romanesque architecture in the United States and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The extensive use of terra cotta in its construction (1923-1928) provided for one of its most unique features: an elaborate display of medieval iconography created by Rev. Thomas Plassmann, then President of St. Bonaventure University. The church contains more than two thousand symbols which depict this “summa” or summary of Christian beliefs in ceramic tiles, paintings and sculpture, and docents will be available to help interpret them.

The Buffalo Religious Arts Center, 157 East Street
Tours/Open House
Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19 from 1:00 – 3:00 p.m.
Information at: www.buffaloreligiousarts.org or 716-481-2350

The Buffalo Religious Arts Center is located in the former St. Francis Xavier Church, in the historic Black Rock neighborhood on the West Side of Buffalo. This unique gallery is dedicated to the preservation of Buffalo’s rich religious heritage through the collection and display of art and artifacts from many of the area’s closed houses of worship. The artifacts on display include stained glass, statuary and paintings, all of which reveal the story of the many immigrants who settled in Buffalo.

Corpus Christi R. C. Church, 199 Clark Street
Saturday, May 18 from 12:00 Noon – 2:00 p.m.
Information at: www.corpuschristibuffalo.org or 716-896-1050

On Saturday at 11:00 a.m., Henry Swiatek, a specialist in church painting and restoration, will give a presentation in the chapel on the significance of recently restored murals in this space. The chapel is located in the former convent building on Clark Street, to the right of the church.

Corpus Christi Church is located on the State and National Registers of Historic Places, and was honored in 2010 with a Preservation Buffalo Niagara Preservation Award. The iconic mural above the church altar, considered one of the most significant pieces of ecclesiastical artwork in the United States, was recently restored to its original splendor. This exquisite artwork is a rendering of a Vatican masterpiece by celebrated, Renaissance painter Raphael Santi. The mural was originally painted in the 1920’s by Marion Rzeznik and Gonippo Raggi, both of whom are considered premier, 20th century artists of ecclesiastical paintings.

First Presbyterian Church, One Symphony Circle
Tours/Open House
Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Information at: www.firstchurchbuffalo.org

First Presbyterian Church, a Buffalo city landmark, was the first faith community in Buffalo. Founded in 1812, it is often referred to as the “Mother of All Churches.” Even Teddy Roosevelt worshipped here! The Romanesque church was designed by Buffalo architects Green and Wicks. Notable features include the main dome, towering 64 ft. above the floor of the nave, decorated in a Persian design. The apse features four medallions depicting the Four Evangelists, adapted from carvings on the doors of St. Mark’s in Venice, Italy, while the chandeliers are copies of those in Hagia Sophia in Constantinople.

Chapel at Forest Lawn, Delaware & West Delavan Avenues
ChapelTours/Open House
Saturday, May 18, and Sunday, May 19 from 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Information at: www.forest-lawn.com or 716-885-1600

Forest Lawn’s historic chapel was constructed in 1882, 32 years after the first burial took place, using plans created by Joseph Earnshaw, an engineer from Cincinnati. The facility was constructed using limestone from Forest Lawn’s own quarry. In 1933, the Wurlitzer pipe organ –made in North Tonawanda, NY – was installed. The chapel’s terrazzo floors and vaulted ceilings provide ideal acoustics for recitals and receptions.
Renowned local architect Edward B. Green was contracted to design a crematory and a columbarium for the chapel; they were completed in 1933. A chancel was also added, as well as a cloister. In 1954, the portico was constructed, extending from the chapel entrance to the road.

As Forest Lawn embraces its new purpose as a cultural destination for local residents and tourists alike, the chapel has become an integral part of many events and activities. Over the past few years, the chapel has hosted more than 5,000 guests for such special events as lectures, concerts, special group tours, symposiums and more. Forest Lawn is the only local full-service cemetery for traditional and cremation arrangements listed on the State and National Registries of Historic Places.

ALL EVENTS ARE FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

Since 1986 The New York Landmarks Conservancy’s Sacred Sites program has supported more than 675 religious institutions throughout the state which have received over $7.7 million in matching grants. Sacred Sites is the country’s oldest and largest statewide grant program to help landmark religious properties. Corpus Christi, Blessed Trinity, First Presbyterian and the Buffalo Religious Arts Center have all received matching grants from the Sacred Sites program.

http://buffalosacredplaces.org/?tag=sacred-sites-open-house-weekend

St. John the Evangelist Stained Glass Window

Pictured here holding a section of the St. John the Evangelist window is Colin Albig of Images in Glass which is located in Hamburg, New York. Images in Glass did the restoration and installation.

Pictured here holding a section of the St. John the Evangelist window is Colin Albig of Images in Glass which is located in Hamburg, New York. Images in Glass did the restoration and installation.

The window of St. John the Evangelist was installed at the Buffalo Religious Arts Center on April 16, 2013.
It was originally housed in the former St Francis Xavier Church in Rochester, New York. The window was made by the Pike Stained Glass Studio, c1911. William Pike started his company in 1908 after working for the Louis Comfort Tiffany Studios in New York City. This breathtaking window stands at 10 feet tall.

Bi-National Peace Garden Trail Dedication and Black Rock Historical Society Museum

On August 26th the Buffalo Religious Arts Center held the reception for the Bi-National Heritage Peace Garden Trail Dedication. The Black Rock Historical Society also held their dedication for their traveling museum, showcasing the heritage of Black Rock and giving an overview of Black Rock’s history and the history of the War of 1812. Not only was the display extremely informative, but we also had the chance to watch a video that highlighted the key events and connection between Black Rock and the War of 1812. These events included the capture of the ships, Bisshopp’s raid on Black Rock, the Burning and Battle of Black Rock, and the Battle of Scajaquada Creek. For more details on the War of 1812 visit the Black Rock Historical Society’s website at www.blackrockhistoricalsociety.com

Around 2 PM we headed out on the walking tour of the Market Square District. We stopped along the way to see key preservation sites. The War of 1812 Mural Project was done by local artists, also showing the history of Black Rock from the original Black Rock and Native Americans, to the new Peace Garden located at Dearborn and Hamilton streets. The mural highlights the talent of the artists J. Tim Raymond, Russell Mott, Doreen Deboth and Jerome A. Mach, Joe Tempski, and Cynthia Van Ens. The mural wraps around the corner of Amherst street (before it turns into Tonawanda). Not only does it add vibrancy to the neighborhood but it also commemorates the War of 1812 and informs the onlooker of the neighborhood’s history.  An event such as this shows the importance of community preservation and also what can be accomplished by those who take pride in the neighborhood and care to preserve its history.

Written by Erin Radetich

Below are some pictures that show the Black Rock Historical Society’s display in the BRAC :

BI-NATIONAL HERITAGE PEACE GARDEN TRAIL DEDICATION

1 pm – Unveiling of the sign and dedication of the Trail at the corner of Dearborn and Hamilton Streets at the Peace Garden Site

1:30 pm –  Reception at the Buffalo Religious Arts Center at 157 East Street.  Display of the Black Rock Heritage Museum

2:00pm –  Walking tour of the Market Square Historic District and the Black Rock Mural

For further information contact Mary Ann Kendron at 716.440.9016

Garden Walk

Photo by Andrea Holland

Photo by Andrea Holland

8TH ANNUAL ANNUAL BLACK ROCK RIVERSIDE
TOUR OF GARDENS
Saturday August 4, 2012
10am to 5pm

Black Rock and Riverside are outstanding communities rich in heritage and deep in pride. The Garden Tour encourages beautification of home
and of neighborhoods along with promoting activities that help build a sense of community.

Visit our two headquarters, St. Mark’s Church, 311 Ontario St and Buffalo Religious Arts Center, 157 East St.
for maps, information or promotional items.

If you have questions email brrtourofgardens@yahoo.com

Photo by Andrea Holland

Photo by Andrea Holland

TOUR OF CHURCHES AUGUST 28, 2012

BE A HERO AND SAVE THE DAY

Now it’s time to shine a spotlight on our city’s equally impressive sacred sites.
While Americans flock to the great churches of Europe, there are equally
extraordinary houses of worship to be explored right here in our own
backyard.  These landmarks need your help. Now, for the cost of a bus tour,
you can be a superhero.

The tour includes:

Blessed Trinity R. C. Church -the purest replication of Lombard Romanesque architecture in the United States, noted for its unique brickwork and extensive use of ceramics.

First Presbyterian Church – the oldest faith community in Buffalo, established in 1812, features Tiffany designed stained glass windows.

Corpus Christi R.C. Church –  saved from closing in 2004, highlights include exquisite stained-glass windows and an iconic mural, considered to be one of the most significant examples of ecclesiastical artwork in the United States.

The Buffalo Religious Arts Center – established to collect and preserve art from houses of worship that have closed in Western New York.  This collection of stained glass windows, statuary, and works of art provide a unique insight into Buffalo’s culture and history.

A portion of the tour proceeds goes directly to maintain these irreplaceable sites.

So grab a friend, play tourist for the day, and help save some of Buffalo’s heavenly landmarks.

Contact Know How Tours at 716-649- 9694 to make your tour reservations
for August 28, 2012.   $79.00 per person

Discover Amherst Street Festival

Amherst Street and Black Rock are becoming the up can coming neighborhood.  Happening this June 16th will be the Amherst Street Festival.  Come and enjoy a array of different entertainment and activities.  There will be Art, Music, Contests, Prizes, Food, Drinks, and a Parade – which will have a banner for the BRAC (Buffalo Religious Art Center)!

Check out more information at:

http://www.facebook.com/DiscoverAmherstStreetFestival

2012 Black Rock Tour Schedule

Guided walking tour, no reservations. Tour Bucks & Groupons allowed.

Two tours in one! Discover the rich art, history, and architecture of this little-known riverside community that dates back to the early 1800s. Admission includes a guided tour inside the Buffalo Religious Arts Center in the former St. Francis Xavier Church.

Meet at Amherst St & Niagara St
$10 per person, $5 for students
Upcoming Tour Dates

Saturday, June 23, 2012, 1–3 pm
Saturday, July 21, 2012, 1–3 pm
Saturday, September 22, 2012, 1–3 pm
Saturday, October 20, 2012, 1–3 pm

http://www.preservationbuffaloniagara.org/buffalo-tours/architecture-and-history/tour:black-rock/