BUFFALO, N.Y. (WBEN).....Closed for the past four years, the Karpeles Manuscript Library - an Elmwood Village landmark and iconic structure - has landed a new owner.
The Chapel at Hunts Corners - an affiliate of the Mubius family - has paid $450,000 for the building located at 220 North Street, according to documents filed in the Erie County Clerk's office.
"The building attracted a lot of interest because of its history and location," said Bo Gurney, Gurney Becker & Bourne vice president.
Tentative plans call for the circa 1911 era building to be renovated into The Mubious Institute, named after financial expert J.Mark Mubious.
The isntitute will serve as a financial education center, lecture hall and special event center. Lectures and educational seminars will focus on emerging markets.
The Karpeles Museum was best known for its collection of rare manuscripts and historical documents including works by Charles Darwin and Mozart musical scores.
A second Karpeles location on Porter Avenue was sold to D';Youville University and is now part of its West Side campus.
The North Street building - originally designed and constructed for the First Church of Christ - has been home to a number of religious and community groups.
Because of its architecture - both interior and exterior - the building was used for such movies as "Nightmare Alley" and "Marshall."
Karpeles Manuscript Library sold for $450,000
Karpeles Manuscript Library sold for $450,000
