Barton House

Barton House. The Barton House, located in Buffalo, New York, is a significant example of Prairie School architecture, showcasing the work of renowned architects like Frank Lloyd Wright and Louis Sullivan. This historic house museum is part of the Martin House Complex, which also includes the Pergola, Conservatory, and Garden. The house has been recognized for its architectural significance, earning a listing on the National Register of Historic Places and designation as a National Historic Landmark by the United States Department of the Interior.

● History

The Barton House was originally designed for Thomas Barton, a prominent Larkin Company executive, and his family. Construction began in 1903 and was completed in 1905, with Darwin Martin serving as the project's supervisor. The house's design was influenced by the works of Walter Gropius, Le Corbusier, and Mies van der Rohe, reflecting the International Style and De Stijl movements. The American Institute of Architects has recognized the house's historical significance, and it has been featured in various publications, including Architectural Record and House Beautiful, alongside the works of other notable architects like Eero Saarinen and I.M. Pei.

● Architecture

The Barton House features a unique blend of Prairie School and Arts and Crafts styles, characterized by its long, horizontal lines, low-pitched hip roof, and emphasis on natural materials like oak and brick. The house's design was also influenced by the Shingle Style and Queen Anne Style, reflecting the eclectic tastes of the time. The American Society of Landscape Architects has recognized the house's beautifully landscaped grounds, which feature a pergola and conservatory designed by Jens Jensen and Frederick Law Olmsted. The house's architecture has been compared to other notable works, including the Robie House and Westcott House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and Burton Westcott, respectively.

● Notable Residents

The Barton House was originally occupied by Thomas Barton and his family, who were prominent members of Buffalo society. The house has also been associated with other notable figures, including Darwin Martin, Frank Lloyd Wright, and Louis Sullivan. The Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society has recognized the house's historical significance, and it has been featured in various exhibitions, including those at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and Burchfield Penney Art Center. The house's residents have been connected to various notable events, including the Pan-American Exposition and the 1901 Buffalo mayoral election, which involved figures like William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt.

● Preservation Efforts

The Barton House has undergone significant preservation efforts, led by the Martin House Restoration Corporation and the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The house was restored to its original condition in the 1960s, with the help of Historic Preservation Society and the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. The United States Department of the Interior has recognized the house's historical significance, and it has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. The preservation efforts have been supported by various organizations, including the American Institute for Conservation and the International Council on Monuments and Sites, which have worked to protect other notable sites like the Statue of Liberty and Monticello.

● Tourism and Events

The Barton House is open to the public for tours, which are offered by the Martin House Complex. The house has been featured in various events, including the Buffalo Garden Walk and the National Historic Landmark celebration. The Buffalo and Erie County Public Library has hosted exhibitions and lectures about the house's history and architecture, featuring speakers like Vincent Scully and Robert A.M. Stern. The house has also been used as a venue for events like the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra concerts and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery's Art in the Gardens series, which have featured performances by notable artists like Yo-Yo Ma and Lang Lang. Visitors to the house can also explore the surrounding Delaware Park, designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, and visit other nearby attractions, including the Albright-Knox Art Gallery and the Burchfield Penney Art Center.