The Association for a Buffalo Presidential Center (ABPC) is hosting its inaugural fundraiser featuring a special exhibit and lecture to increase public awareness of its long-term plans. The event will take place on Nov. 17 at The Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum, 220 North Street, starting at 6 pm. The proposed Presidential Center will provide public programs, projects and research opportunities showcasing Buffalo’s presidential history. Project sponsors believe Buffalo may be one of the only cities in all of America that can boast it has been home to two United States Presidents.
The exhibit, “Buffalo’s Presidential Legacy,” will include items specific to Presidents Fillmore and Cleveland as well as the eleven Presidents who preceded the Constitution and President Washington. Millard Fillmore’s letters during his European voyage will be on display along with letters written during his time as a lawyer in Buffalo. Fillmore’s exhibit also includes a letter expressing his fear of being nominated President, a Thanksgiving Proclamation signed by Grover Cleveland, photograph of William McKinley in front of the Temple of Music, Leon Czolgosz’s (assassinated President McKinley) mug shots profile and frontal views, Czolgosz’s assassination confession letter and photographs of him prior to the assassination, a letter drafted by Fillmore to the Buffalo Historical Society, McKinley’s thank you letter to Buffalo Republican Club, Inaugural photographs of McKinley, a letter written to Dr. Roswell Park by Fillmore and rare photographs of McKinley and his wife, Abigail.
A lecture will be given by Dr. James Campbell, chair, Political Science at the University at Buffalo, SUNY, entitled “The People Rate the Presidents” at 7 pm. Dr. Campbell will share an overview of his new book project on presidential ratings and lead a discussion of how Buffalo-related presidents Fillmore, Cleveland, McKinley and Roosevelt are rated.
Light refreshments will be served during the exhibit viewing. Admission is $25 with all proceeds going towards the ongoing efforts to establish a Buffalo Presidential Center. Reservations are required for this event.
The ABPC is dedicated to exploring the legacies of Presidents Grover Cleveland and Millard Fillmore and the roles of other Western New Yorkers who helped to shape our nation’s history. The Association will also promote interest in contemporary issues related to the Presidency, Presidential elections and national policies. The organization’s mission will be accomplished in collaboration with existing national and regional organizations through educational programs, public symposia, electronic publications, and exhibitions.
Get Connected: Maryann Freedman 716-881-3010 or Bren Price 716-440-6865