The UB Foundation has announced the sale of the historic Butler Mansion in downtown Buffalo to Douglas Development for $3.75 million. 

UB requested that UBF put the property on the market and accept bids for its purchase. Following the gifting of the property to UBF for the benefit of the university by Delaware North CEO and UB Council Chair Jeremy Jacobs in 2000, UB used the property, located at the corner of Delaware Avenue and North Street, as a continuing education and training facility. However, UB’s use of the building had lessened greatly in recent years as it focused efforts on the physical master plan objectives at its three campuses.

“We greatly appreciate Mr. Jacobs’ support of our efforts to sell the property, as well as his tremendous philanthropy through the years to both the university and UBF,” said President Satish K. Tripathi.

UBF CEO Stacy Knapper noted the proceeds of the sale will be used “in continuing the philanthropic mission of UBF to promote UB’s activities and programs, which includes assisting in the acquisition of strategic assets, managing and providing resources, and providing an array of services for the UB community.”

Douglas Jemal, president of Douglas Development, said the company “is honored to be the new caretaker that will prepare this fabulous work of art known as the historic Butler Mansion for the next chapter in its amazing life.”

“I pledge to devote every facet of my experience and creativity to re-position this wonderful asset of the city of Buffalo in a way that maximizes its usefulness to the surrounding neighborhood while retaining its stunning architectural beauty,” Jemal said.