Max Lowenthal was a key figure in the founding of the Mechanics Institute in 1885 and served on the board of trustees until his death in 1914.

Mr. Lowenthal founded the Rochester Knitting Works in 1868, a thriving business in Rochester until 1971. His son, Arthur, joined the business and worked there for 51 years and it was he who gave the generous gifts that helped make the new building possible. In 1977, Arthur Lowenthal was elected an honorary trustee of the Institute. The board of trustees approved the naming of the building in 1978.