There is a lot of synergy these days between the Frank Lloyd Wright advancements that showcase the region as a world-class destination for the architect’s work. No longer are these stand alone projects vying for segmented financial support, rather they are a network of projects looking to bolster economic solutions in a variety of manners intended to strengthen the Wright legacy in Buffalo.
On Friday, June 25th the Larkin at Exchange Building will play host to a special fundraiser that incorporates a wide array of Wright-related auction packages that include the Frank Lloyd Boat House, The Davidson House, The Martin House, the Blue Sky Mausoleum and of course Graycliff (photo). Ahhh, the Davidson House – one lucky winner will actually get to spend the night in the home that was shot down when applying for status as a pied a terre. The laundry list of auction prizes is as follows:
Summer Twilight at Graycliff:
Graycliff as the Martin family itself did, an oasis of tranquility on a summer evening. You and fifteen guests will enjoy a very private evening of cheeses with summer fruits and wine as your stroll Graycliff terraces and balconies, admiring the sweeping views of Lake Erie and Canada beyond. Let the cares of the work-a-day world drift away as your discover the repose of Graycliff.
Wright at Home for the Night:
A rare opportunity for an overnight stay in the privately owned Davidson House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. This beautiful Prairie-style home will be yours for your and three of your guests for your overnight stay. A bountiful breakfast prepared by the owner will be presented when you awaken from your restful slumber.
Gathering at the Wright Rowing Boat House:
Water and Wright will unite to create a truly extraordinary private evening for you and your guests, twenty in all, at the newest Wright building in Buffalo. Be among the first to savor gourmet cheeses and wines overlooking the spectacular Buffalo waterfront on a languid summer evening.
Yachting, Anyone?:
Join with a friend and bid on this well-appointed cruise on the Niagara River. Cheery cocktails and sumptuous dinner buffet served aboard The Harriet for up to six people. A 43′ private yacht, The Harriet will wind its way along the waterfront as you dine, the ultimate in relaxation and luxuriousness. Hosted by Dr. Thomas Jambro, owner and captain.
Yachting for Landlubbers:
The gracious hospitality of the Buffalo Yacht Club will allow you and five guests to enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Erie, Fort Erie, and the mouth of the mighty Niagara River, all on dry land. Enjoy convivial cocktails and exceptional fare at the third-oldest yacht club in the United State, combining history and scenic beauty for an evening of unstinting relaxation.
Experience Historic Forest Lawn:
A two hour in-depth an extraordinary behind the scenes tour of Forest Lawn Cemetery for twenty people on an air-conditioned coach with Forest Lawn President Joseph Dispenza. The tour will include a look at Blue Sky Mausoleum, the new Martin Family Memorial, the Larkin Family lot and perhaps even a visit by some Forest Lawn notables. Guests will enjoy a wine and cheese reception, with a strolling violinist in the Forest Lawn Chapel, located on the grounds of this historic landmark property. Winner must notify Forest Lawn to arrange for a mutually agreeable date and time for this event.
Behind the Scenes at the Darwin D. Martin House Complex:
A private tour for up to twenty guests presented by the Martin House Restoration Corporation’s Executive Director Mary F. Roberts. Guests will enjoy wine, beer and light fare before this exceptional “Behind the Scenes” tour. First hand information about the fascinating restoration process, a peek at areas rarely seen, and the opportunity to learn the unique history of the Martin family residence by your gracious and knowledgeable hostess.
Dinner in Provence:
Be utterly transported for an evening–without the need for a
passport–to the south of France. You and eleven of your friends and
family will experience the pleasure of exquisite wines and truly
extraordinary cuisine from the Provence region. Enjoy a splendid
dinner in relaxed elegance, employing the freshest possible ingredients
from both land and sea, in a lovely private home and garden. Hostess
Sharon Osgood will prepare the picnic including serving grilled duck
breast with a vintage 1990 first growth Château Margaux and
lemon-lavender tart with 1995 Château d’Yquem. Min. Bid: $1000
A Chinese Auction for exclusive Gift Baskets will also be featured, as well as displays of original Larkin Company products.
*All proceeds from the Gala will benefit the Graycliff Conservancy, Inc., which is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of the Graycliff Estate, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Admission is $125 (or $160 for non-members of the Conservancy, which also includes a one-year membership.) Please contact the Conservancy at 716-947-9217 or graycliff@verizon.net for admission. Friday, June 25th, 2010, from 6:30 to 9:30 pm. The Larkin at Exchange Building, now beautifully rehabilitated, was originally one of the warehouses of the Larkin Soap Company, whose administration building was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. The Graycliff Gala will feature gourmet dinner stations, delicious hors d’oeuvres, wine and beer, and dinner. Guitarist Paul Schulte was perform jazz classics.