Formerly known as St. Mary of the Angels Convent and Motherhouse, the distinguished Gothic building at 400 Mill Street is now St. Mary’s Commons Apartments. This historic property was erected in 1926 and served as headquarters for the Sisters of Saint Francis until 1999.
Set among the mature trees in the village of Williamsville and the town of Amherst, the Motherhouse complex was originally fashioned by the same architectural firm that designed the Buffalo City Hall in the 1920’s. The beautifully landscaped grounds and peaceful interior courtyards of St. Mary’s offer a tranquil oasis in this vibrant community.
A 100 acre parcel was originally donated to the Sisters of St. Francis in 1901. It was subdivided over the years to make way for residential development and new facilities operated by the Sisters. The remaining land became Amherst State Park. The St. Mary of the Angels Convent and Motherhouse was relocated to a new building on Reist Street in 1999. In 2003, renovations began to transform the original Motherhouse building into St. Mary’s Commons Apartments, designed for adults age 55 and over.
The gorgeous oak entry doors and exquisite coffered ceiling with hand-tiled trim in the dramatic two-story vestibule have been preserved to showcase the enchanting Gothic Revival architecture of this distinguished building. While the common areas are awe-inspiring, the uniquely designed and richly appointed apartments are no less impressive. Each of the individually designed studio, one and two bedroom residences offers the architectural touches of yesteryear and the modern conveniences of today.
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