About Anson Goodyear

Anson Goodyear: Buffalo’s Visionary Art Patron

Born on June 20, 1877, in Buffalo, NY, Anson Goodyear was not only a prominent businessman but also a passionate art patron who played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and artistic landscape of the United States. Known for his deep commitment to the arts and philanthropy, Goodyear’s ties to Buffalo remained strong throughout his life, influencing both his career and his enduring contributions to the art world.

Early Life in Buffalo

Anson Conger Goodyear grew up in Buffalo, a city that was thriving during the late 19th century. Known for its booming industries and entrepreneurial spirit, Buffalo provided a dynamic environment for young Anson to develop the values of hard work, innovation, and civic responsibility. His family was deeply rooted in Buffalo’s business and social circles, and this upbringing undoubtedly shaped his later accomplishments.

Goodyear came from a lineage of success and influence. His father, Charles W. Goodyear, was a prominent lawyer and businessman who instilled in Anson the importance of community involvement and leadership. Growing up in such a vibrant and prosperous city, with exposure to both industry and culture, helped ignite Goodyear’s lifelong interest in business and the arts.

A Business Mogul

Anson Goodyear began his career following in his family’s footsteps, excelling in business and industry. He became a significant figure in Buffalo’s industrial sector, particularly in lumber and railroads, two key industries at the time. Goodyear held leadership positions in several family enterprises, including the Goodyear Lumber Company and various rail companies.

Despite his success in business, Goodyear’s interests were not confined to industry alone. His success provided him the resources and platform to explore his passion for art and philanthropy.

Championing the Arts

Anson Goodyear’s most enduring legacy lies in his efforts to promote and support the arts. His commitment to fostering creativity and preserving culture culminated in his role in founding one of America’s most renowned art institutions—the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York City.

Goodyear served as the first president of MoMA from 1929 to 1939, helping to establish the museum as a leading voice for modern art. His vision extended beyond simply collecting and exhibiting art; he sought to create a space where creativity, innovation, and dialogue could thrive. Under his leadership, MoMA began acquiring works from some of the most celebrated artists of the time, laying the foundation for its global reputation.

Goodyear’s commitment to the arts was deeply influenced by his upbringing in Buffalo, a city known for its cultural richness and love of the humanities. It’s likely that Buffalo’s vibrant arts scene, along with its architectural treasures and public art displays, inspired Goodyear’s appreciation for creative expression and his belief in its power to transform societies.

Buffalo and the Albright-Knox Art Gallery

Even as Anson Goodyear rose to prominence on the national stage, his connection to Buffalo remained steadfast. He played an instrumental role in supporting the Albright-Knox Art Gallery, one of Buffalo’s most cherished cultural institutions. Goodyear contributed to the gallery’s development and helped expand its collection, ensuring that his hometown remained a hub for artistic innovation.

Buffalo’s strong tradition of valuing art and culture was something Goodyear carried with him throughout his life. By supporting both MoMA and the Albright-Knox, he demonstrated his dedication to fostering art on both local and global scales.

Personal Life and Legacy

Anson Goodyear was not only a businessman and art patron but also a family man known for his warmth and generosity. He was married to Mary Forman, with whom he shared a shared love for the arts. Together, they cultivated a life filled with creativity and service to their community.

Goodyear’s legacy is defined by the institutions he helped build and the countless individuals he inspired. Through his leadership at MoMA and his support of Buffalo’s art scene, Goodyear left behind more than just a collection of cultural milestones—he left a vision for what art could mean to society.

Remembering a Buffalo Legacy

Anson Goodyear’s life is a shining example of how one person, deeply connected to their roots, can make a lasting impact on the world. From his business ventures in Buffalo to his pivotal role in shaping modern art institutions, Goodyear carried the values of his hometown with him wherever he went.

Buffalo, a city of resilience and creativity, served as the perfect starting point for a man who would go on to change the art world forever. Anson Goodyear’s story is a testament to the enduring power of community, culture, and the arts—values that continue to define Buffalo to this day.