Landmarks Fall 2010

Landmarks $5.00

FALL 2010: VOLUME XLVIII, NUMBER IV

THE LANDMARK SOCIETY OF WESTERN NEW YORK

Honoring Historic Preservation and Revitalization

“The mother art is architecture. Without an architecture of our own we have no soul of our own civilization.”

Frank Lloyd Wright, 1867-1959

DEFINING OUR CIVILIZATION

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elcome to our fall issue of Landmarks. Wright’s phrase “an architecture of our own” takes into account an enormous spectrum of styles, uses and sheer numbers of buildings as we begin the 21st century. When we look at a building, we certainly get an idea of the civilization that built it, but the style, materials and scope do more than define a civilization.

Those buildings also frequently tell the stories of the people who brought them into being – the craftspeople, the architects, the owners and everyone with a hand in that act of creation.

In September, we were able to tell the story of Rochester’s own St. Paul Quarter with a very successful Inside Downtown 2010 Tour. The personal, business, workshop and commercial spaces we explored have all been other things over the last century – and adaptive reuse has extended their stories to new people for new uses. Preservation and preservation planning, two key reasons for The Landmark Society’s being here to begin with, are more relevant now than at any time in our history. Seldom do we get a chance to see as many examples of successful reuse in such a small area. Special thanks to all our tour guests and to our tour hosts who opened their spaces and shared their stories.

Our programs continue to attract more people to our mission and to membership as preservation makes Rochester and the nine counties in which we work better every day. Rochester’s own Frank Lloyd Wright residence, The Boynton House, continues to take on a renewed character as its museum quality restoration, under the care and stewardship of the CosentinoParker Trust, moves forward. And our annual meeting, Sunday, November 14th at 3:30 p.m. at the Rochester Academy of Medicine, during which we will recognize our Preservation Award Winners is coming up fast. I look forward to seeing you there!

Best,

David J. Whitaker Interim Executive Director

BOARD OF TRUSTEES President: Henry W. Williams, Jr. Vice Presidents: Preservation

Scott Forsyth

Education & Properties

Katherine H. Karl Development

Beth Teall

Finance & Treasurer

Mary Znidarsic-Nicosia Secretary: Hugh A. Hamlin

JoAnn Beck Thomas Castelein Christopher S. Clarke Joanne DeMarle Charles Fitzgibbon Jean R. France Sandra Frankel Andy Germanow Irena Guinness Joseph R. Hanna James I. Marasco Michael Mincher Carol S. Mullin

Edward J. Olinger Ann Penwarden Jeffrey J. Pollock Linda H. Riordan Christopher Sardone Peter Siegrist William F. Sullivan Allen Williams Jessie P. Woodward At Large: Jerry Ludwig Mimi Freund Tilton Stacey VanDenburgh

Landmarks discover, protect and revitalize

PHOTOS BY: MICHAEL KAHN (BOTTOM LEFT); DAVID BOYER (BOTTOM RIGHT) COVER: THE AVON OPERA BLOCK, AVON, NEW YORK; PHOTO BY LISA M. FEINSTEIN

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This newsletter is the official publication of The Landmark Society of Western New York, Inc. Publication is assisted with income from the Marion Moore Whitbeck Fund and public funds from Monroe County and from the New York State Council on the Arts, whose funds are recommended by the governor and appropriated by the State Legislature. The mission of The Landmark Society of Western New York, Inc. is to protect the unique architectural heritage of our region and promote preservation and planning practices that foster healthy, livable and sustainable communities. Landmarks is published quarterly by The Landmark Society of Western New York, Inc., 133 South Fitzhugh Street, Rochester, New York 14608, (585) 546-7029. Our fax number is (585) 546-4788. Look for our website at www.landmarksociety.org. E-mail us at mail@landmarksociety.org.

READER RESPONSE NEWS HOUSE NOTES Feature: ANNUAL AWARDS TRAVELOGUE IN THE COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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READER RESPONSE

Letters to the Editor & Your Stories Landmarks wants to hear from you! Whether you have comments about the magazine, concerns about preservation issues in your neighborhood or just want to share an idea, we welcome your input. Send photos and letters, which may be edited for space, to editor@landmarksociety.org or to the Landmarks Editor, 133 South Fitzhugh Street, Rochester, New York 14608.

A NEW LOOK

ROCHESTER CITY LIVING

We received quite a bit of feedback from readers and members after the first issue of the freshly redesigned Landmarks arrived in mailboxes. We love hearing from you! Please keep the feedback coming!

“The Rochester City Living website is an awesome resource for home searches.

When I was looking for a new home, it was the only site I could find that allowed me to search by neighborhood ... which is exactly how I wanted to search!! It makes searching for homes especially easy for out-of-town buyers. The layout of the site is really user friendly and it’s clean and easy to navigate. I just chose what neighborhood I was interested in living in and all the listings popped up!

I will definitely use the site again if I have to move and I will recommend it to anyone looking for houses in the city!”

“The latest issue of Landmarks is spectacular, the best I’ve ever seen. It is handsomely designed with excellent color photographs and fine, informative text.

Congratulations!”

- Richard Reisem Author, Landmark Society Trustee Emeritus

“Yesterday we received the newly designed Landmark Society newsletter.

I’d like to share my congratulations all around. It’s dramatic, updated, refreshing and beautiful.

The publication broadcasts a new sense of energy and direction and I would like to applaud all the folks behind the design and the decision to update.”

- Susan Hagen University of Rochester

“What a delight to see The Landmark Society’s new magazine! The fresh design and the editorial content complement and propel a vital civic mission and I’m proud to be a supporting member.”

- Fred Rico Historian

PHOTO COURTESY OF TAPAS 177 LOUNGE

NEW KID IN TOWN “I just wanted to share with you what a wonderful time I had at The Landmark Society’s Inside Downtown fundraiser at Tapas 177 on September 25, 2010!

Being new to the area, I thoroughly enjoyed exploring the beautiful city of Rochester and enjoying a fine meal. The ambiance and the crowd at the event were so inviting. As a newcomer to western New York, I think the afternoon really captured the feeling of community that exists in Rochester, especially the city.

The Landmark Society of Western New York really did a great job of organizing the luncheon and the tour... and Tapas 177 put together a delicious menu while expertly managing the crowd. Thanks for such a delightful Saturday afternoon!

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- Ronna Bosko Geneseo, NY

- Christy Post Rochester, NY

Rochester City Living is an initiative of The Landmark Society of Western New York. The website, www.rochestercityliving.com provides real estate listings and information about living, working and playing in the city of Rochester. Visit the site, join Fans of Rochester City Living on Facebook or follow RocCityLiving on Twitter to keep up to date on Rochester news and events.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE JOHNSON FAMILY

INSIDE SIDING

BEFORE: Yolanda and Ron Johnson’s house with non-historic aluminum siding.

This August, after years of persuading, Yolanda Johnson hesitantly gave her husband, Ron, the go-ahead to remove the non-historic aluminum siding on their home at 52 Linden Street in Rochester.

With the help of a family friend, Ron completed the job in just two days. The

Johnsons shared their preservation success story with Landmarks.

Yolanda was admittedly nervous when the work began, but was shocked when she arrived home from work on the second day. Not only were the wood clapboards intact, but the Johnsons also discovered that the drab aluminum siding had been hiding a wealth of architectural detailing, particularly in the gable peaks.

Perhaps the most interesting detail exposed by the project was the sunburst present on the house’s front gable. The siding striptease also revealed a number of former window openings. Next spring, after the wood clapboards have had a chance to air out and adjust to the environment, Yolanda and Ron plan to give the house a fresh coat of paint.

Yolanda is delighted that she listened to

AFTER: Beautiful original details were uncovered after the aluminum was removed.

her husband – and she and Ron are excited about the reclaimed treasure they unveiled.

-Caitlin Meives Preservation Planner To read more about common myths and misconceptions about siding, turn to page 7.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

JOHN THOMAN, TRUSTEE: MEMBER SINCE 1961 Why did you join The Landmark Society?

Well, I’d been married a while, and was working at Taylor Instrument.

I was looking for a non-profit to work with and my friend Russell Sibley (the Sibley in Sibley’s Department Store) persuaded me to join the board of The Landmark Society.

Where are you from originally?

Cincinnati, Ohio, where the Miami Purchase Association was active as a preservation organization.

What was your line of work in 1961? And today?

I was in marketing at Taylor, then became a quality manager, and in 1982, I started in the investment business, where I am today.

What did The Landmark Society do when you first joined?

When I first joined the board, our meetings were held in the kitchen of Campbell-Whittlesey House. We called ourselves the Kitchen Cabinet and the board was rather small.

What were the meetings like in 1961?

The emphasis was on saving buildings threatened with demolition or damage. I-490 and the bridge were going to come within very close proximity to CW, and we worked to see that the house was not damaged and that space was made to keep any foundation damage from occurring. We succeeded.

Has The Landmark Society’s focus changed during your tenure?

I don’t know that the focus has changed, but we have been flexible to change with the times. We focus now to improve the retention of saved buildings and the size of the board has increased too. This happened probably 20 years ago and was a good thing.

Is there anything that stands out in your mind as a great Landmark memory?

The march on City Hall to save the building. Billie Harrington, our executive director at the time, and Dodo Centner, our president were right out there too. It was kind of fun. And it worked.

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NEWS

FAMILY FUN

MISSION + VISION Equals Support Mark Powell

The Landmark Society’s work continues 24/7 and this is because that work touches everything you do.

Sounds rather a stretch doesn’t it? I thought so too, until my colleague Cynthia Howk asked me two very simple questions: “Do you live in a building?”

“Well, no I live in a house and I . . . oh, of course . . . it’s a building.”

“Do you work in a building?”

“Yeah. I work down the hall from you and . . . ah. I see what you mean.”

Cynthia’s point, of course, is that our world is shaped by the built environment, no matter when you happen to think of it. It’s very much the same with non-profit organizations of all kinds. They shape the world in some fairly astonishing ways. Your everyday lives contain elements discovered in some similarly quick questions. Did you go to school? Have you ever been to a hospital? How about a church, synagogue, mosque or temple? How about a YMCA? A museum?

You get the picture.

Because we, and I’m speaking of all non-profits, rely upon not only the income we earn through our services, but also the gifts you contribute, we will always need your support. And because we eventually spend every penny of that contributed and earned money on executing our mission, you can see just how very important your financial support is. It always will be.

Thank you for your membership in The Landmark Society. Spread the word and share the mission.

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NEWS PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

Director of Development

KIDS AND ARCHITECTURE MEET FOR A MEMORABLE SUMMER They came, they built, they ate it up!

This past summer marked the premiere of The Landmark Society’s brand new experience for kids in grades 4-6: “ArchKIDtecture Camp.”

ArchKIDtecture campers spent a full week exploring all things architectural and historic preservation related. Through the enjoyable mediums of crafts and activities, campers became architecture detectives, discovering the clues to different architectural styles on walking tours.

Campers also spent time with an architect, learning how to plan out a building – then tried their own hands at designing. Participants created cross stitch masterpieces of their favorite house, then constructed the façade of the Stone-Tolan house from various materials – the most popular being gingerbread!

The week ended with the campers celebrating all they had seen and learned by creating an entire 19th-century village out of recycled cardboard. The kids planned what buildings and professions would be needed in a new village and watched as the community grew before their very eyes in the corner of the Stone-Tolan orchard.

The new village was named “Hidden Orchard Village” and boasted a school and church, a town hall, sawmill, clothing store, general store and more.

Next summer ArchKIDtecture will reach new heights with a camp home base in Corn Hill. Campers will explore Rochester’s oldest residential neighborhood and a selection of downtown landmarks. If we’re lucky, we will achieve those new heights with a visit to the top of one of Rochester’s tallest buildings!

Keep an eye on upcoming newsletters and e-mails for more information on all of our 2011 programs.

25th ANNUAL PRESERVATION CONFERENCE Dansville, New York

Saturday, April 30, 2011 Join us for the Silver Anniversary presentation of The Landmark Society’s Annual Preservation Conference. The only annual preservation event offered in New York, this year’s conference will be held in the picturesque village of Dansville, in Livingston County, amidst the lovely scenery of the Genesee Valley. Dansville features an outstanding collection of 19th and early 20th-century architecture including the Shepherd Library (pictured left). With a number of important preservation projects underway, Dansville’s downtown commercial district was recently listed in the State and National Registers of Historic Places. We will be highlighting a selection of these projects. Dansville is accessible via I-390. Stay tuned for more information.

GET INVOLVED

VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT

BECOME A DOCENT

HOW ANN STEAR MAKES A DIFFERENCE

Do you have any idea what the tools pictured above were used for? If you imagined 18th-century dentists extracting teeth … you were right!

And if you would like to explain that to tour goers, you might make a great docent.

The Landmark Society’s dedicated cadre of volunteer docents guide tours of the Stone-Tolan Museum. This fall, 14 docents led tours for students, scouts and adults. At Stone-Tolan, docents learn how our community has changed over time and share that knowledge with visitors.

Docents are well versed in the history of the museum and tour techniques. They participate in enrichment and social activities, including trips to other museums. Some volunteer as a way to interpret local history and some are teachers who in retirement, still enjoy teaching.

To learn more about docents, call Sharon Pratt at (585) 546-7029 x15 or e-mail at spratt@ landmarksociety.org.

For the past two years, Ann Stear has spent one day a week filing, organizing and cataloguing an array of historical information in The Landmark Society’s John Wenrich Memorial library.

“She’s so knowledgeable and such an asset,” says Architectural Research Coordinator Cynthia Howk.

According to Ann, her interest in architecture was the motivating factor that encouraged her to volunteer.

“I feel what I do is worthwhile,” she says, “and the work I do frees up the staff to focus on other priorities.”

Ann enjoys her duties and appreciates the ability to determine her own time commitment and hours. “And the office is in a nice location, with parking available,” she adds.

But the biggest draw? “It’s aw-

fully interesting to know about the housing, the neighborhoods and the people who built them.”

The Landmark Society has a wide range of volunteer opportunities all year round. Positions include: • Tour guides, ticket sellers and refreshment hosts • Docents at Stone-Tolan House • Preservation project assistance • Library assistance (filing, cataloguing, etc.)

• Administrative assistance (mailings, filing, etc.)

If you value local history and want to help preserve it, please e-mail your interests and availability to Events and Volunteer Coordinator Shelley O’Brien, sobrien@landmarksociety.org or call (585) 546-7029 x14.

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NEWS

INSIDE DOWNTOWN TOUR HIGHLIGHTS ST. PAUL QUARTER

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

Many thanks to our dedicated Inside Downtown 2010 volunteers who put in more than 400 hours planning and hosting this year’s tour of the St. Paul Quarter. With 13 sites in six buildings, the tour was one of the largest yet and featured incredible living spaces and unique business places in Rochester.

Over the two-day period, over 1,250 tour participants got a firsthand look at how historic buildings can be carefully preserved while adapted for convenient and distinctive modern use.

And thanks also to Tapas 177 Lounge, many tour goers were able to enjoy an exclusive – and delicious – luncheon to benefit The Landmark Society.

We are especially grateful to our generous sponsors: UBS, City Blue and City Newspaper; our committed event partners: Parkleigh Gifts, The Inn on Broadway and Full Moon Vista Bike & Sport; our site partners: Valerie O’Hara and Pike Stained Glass and Studio 180 and Renaissance Gallery. These sponsors and partners helped to ensure our success.

The tour would not have been possible without our tour comSeptember 24 and 25, Inside Downtown tour goers enjoyed insider visits to some of Rochester’s most sought after loft spaces. mittee co-chairs Anthony Bellomo and Richard Reisem, and tour committee members Randy Morgenstern, Paul Dutton, Chris Brandt and Tammy Chmiel. And of course, many thanks to the owners, managers and residents of our “stars” of the St. Paul Quarter: Harry Forman/116 St. Paul Building, H.H. Warner Building, Our Lady of Victory/St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic Church, Searle Building, Smith Gormly Building and The College at Brockport MetroCenter/Chamber of Commerce Building.

Pictures by Greg Real Estate Photography

Contact Greg: 585.410.9341 picturesbygreg@gmail.com Visit Greg’s website: http://picturesbygreg.com

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HOUSE NOTES

Beware S.C.O.D.

Siding Covering Original Details is

no value and can actually do damage.

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ou’ve seen evidence of the wonder that can hide under the siding on an old house (see page 3). Maintaining the original siding of your home is extremely important.

Replacing or covering your siding with vinyl, aluminum, Masonite hardboard, Textured-lll or any material different from the original, can severely compromise the architectural integrity and lower the value of your house.

The siding and other elements original to your home define its historic character and style.

When a house is covered with substitute siding, the original siding will be hidden, removed, or sometimes ruined forever. In the process, other important elements such as brackets, window or door pediments, and porch details are often removed and discarded.

The result is an historic structure stripped of its charm and rendered bland and unappealing with lower quality materials.

MYTHS About

Siding

Perhaps one of the worst myths of synthetic siding is that it protects your property.

Quite to the contrary, siding often hides problems that aren’t discovered until severe damage occurs; problems that can only be repaired at great expense.

Whether you are a homeowner or a potential buyer, remember that inner wall condensation, ice dam damage, insect infestation, and rot can all be hidden by substitute siding.

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And remember that maintenance-free, isn’t.

All varieties of siding have their special weaknesses. Aluminum and steel siding dent and fade. A huge market for house painters today is repainting “maintenancefree” aluminum siding. Vinyl siding shatters in cold weather, fades and slowly deteriorates from UV rays. Vinyl siding does not hold paint well and is a problem when fading, graffiti, or replacement dictate a new coating.

Don’t be fooled by exaggerated claims of big energy savings from new siding and the thin layer of styrofoam that is often installed behind it; savings are minimal. The best way to weather-proof your house is with attic insulation, quality storm windows, caulking around openings, and weatherstripping.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

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Synthetic siding can hide ongoing damage to your home as well as historic detailing and decorations such as the lovely woodwork uncovered by the Johnsons.

Few older homes require complete replacement of the original clapboard siding. Houses that have not been painted for 50 years or longer often can be rescued with judicious repairs and a good coat of paint. Neglected houses typically exhibit the most deterioration on the south side, so you might have to replace most of the siding on the south and only a few pieces on other sides. Also, carefully inspect clapboards abutting lower roofs and those near the ground.

Adapted from Rehab Rochester by Steve Jordan. Originally published by The Landmark Society and long out of print, it will be available as an e-Book in an updated edition shortly.

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The 2010 Preservation

AWARDS

By Cynthia Howk Architectural Research Coordinator

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Lakeview Cemetery Town of Sweden Recipient of the 2010 Historic Landscape Awarde

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he Landmark Society’s 2010 Annual Meeting will be held on Sunday, November 14 at 3 p.m. in the historic Rochester Academy of Medicine at 1441 East Avenue. Located in the city’s East Avenue Preservation District, this elegant and beautiful venue was originally built in the mid 19th century and expanded to its present size in 1912.

An Historic Venue

In 1880, prominent Rochesterian Harrison Lyon purchased the Italianate brick house then located on the site and from the 1880s until 1938, the structure was the home of the Lyon family.

In 1896, the Lyon’s son, attorney Edmund Lyon, and daughter-in-law, Carolyn Talcott Lyon, moved into the home. The original brick house was expanded to its present size and design over a two-year period, beginning in 1910. Mr. and Mrs. Lyon, both respected teachers at the Rochester School for the Deaf, were longtime friends of both Alexander Graham Bell and Helen Keller.

The Lyon family entertained Rochester’s most prominent citizens in the 33-room mansion, which features a sumptuous setting that echoes the elegance of the Edwardian era.

The spacious living room, designed after one of the rooms of Knole House at Sevenoaks in Kent, England, includes quarter-sawn white oak paneling and decorative plaster ceiling. The Tudor rose motif in the ceiling is repeated in the limestone face of the fireplace and emphasizes the room’s Jacobean style of architecture. The elegant public rooms in the house will be the setting for our reception at the conclusion of the formal program.

In 1938, the Lyon’s three daughters donated their family home to the Academy of Medicine. The Academy subsequently added a wing, which includes a

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Yates-Thayer House Town of Greece Recipient of a 2010 Award of Merit

300-seat auditorium, to accommodate educational activities. This wing was constructed sympathetically to complement and harmonize with the existing residence.

A highly anticipated highlight of the Annual Meeting is the presentation of the 2010 Preservation Awards, given to individuals and organizations in our nine-county area who have made outstanding efforts in the preservation of their homes, historic properties and landscapes.

To whet your interest and encourage your attendance at the Annual Meeting, the following are snippets of information about each of our 2010 Preservation Award winners. You can learn much more about each of them on November 14, when you attend the Annual Meeting.

Barber Conable Award

Avon Opera Block 23 Genesee Street, Village of Avon, Livingston County The Barber Conable Award recognizes a large-scale rehabilitation of an historic building in our region completed within the past two years. This includes buildings listed in the National Register of Historic Places and projects utilizing the Federal Investment Tax Credit program.

This year’s recipient of our major preservation award is the Avon Opera Block (pictured left). This important 19th-century village landmark and the adjacent 1910s bank were restored as the new Town of Avon offices and the headquarters of the Avon Historical Society through the efforts of a public referendum. The $2 million rehabilitation was coordinated by Bero Architecture and includes both historical design and modern geothermal features.

Awards of Merit

Yates-Thayer House, Elm Tree Farm 710 Latta Road, Greece, Monroe County First Presbyterian Church 5805 East Avon-Lima Road, East Avon, Livingston County This year, we are honoring two recipients of the Award of Merit for the sympathetic rehabilitation of an historic building in our 9-county area completed within the past two years.

The Yates-Thayer House The Yates-Thayer House, Elm Tree Farm was built in 1903 as the estate house for the Yates family’s farm.

This handsome Colonial Revival house had experienced several decades of neglect and un-

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The Jell-O Museum Village of LeRoy Recipient of the 2010 Stewardship Award

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sympathetic remodeling. While the adjacent land was developed as an apartment complex for retirees, the house was acquired by local developer David Wegman, who completed the challenging task of rehabilitating this historic residence as the headquarters of his business office, with guidance from the Town of Greece Preservation Board and the New York State Office of Historic Preservation.

cant property in our 9-county region over a period of years.

Constructed in the 1890s as a two-story school and later converted to a factory, this handsome building was rescued from years of neglect and transformed into a museum that attracts over 13,000 visitors each year.

Located in the community where Jell-O was invented and manufactured for much of the 20th century, the museum opened in 1997 and features an outstanding collection of Jell-O artifacts, as well as the headquarters of the LeRoy Historical Society and its archives.

Historic Landscape Award

Lakeview Cemetery 4988 Lake Road South, Sweden, Monroe County The Historic Landscape Award recognizes and encourages the preservation, restoration and stewardship of historically significant landscapes in our 9-county region.

The Lakeview Cemetery opened in 1891. Located on a hilltop south of the village of Brockport, this historic cemetery includes an early 19th-century burial ground and a larger, formally designed secIn addition to making superb use of an historic building, the Jell-O Museum in LeRoy has a tion with features created by Rochester landscape delightful collection of Jell-O ephemera, collectibles, memorabilia and commercial art. architect W.W. Parce.

The picturesque cemetery includes terraces, specimen trees, The First Presbyterian Church statuary, a cast iron fountain and a Gothic Revival chapel. Owned The First Presbyterian Church in East Avon (1812/1827) is one of by the Town of Sweden since the 1970s, this tranquil cemetery is the oldest churches in the Genesee Valley. A Federal-style brick listed in the State and National Registers of Historic Places. building listed in the State and National Registers of Historic Places, the church’s congregation has completed major rehabilitaHistoric Home Awards tion including structural repairs and the restoration of the two-stoThe Historic Home Awards are given to owners of private resiry sanctuary, where a modern drop ceiling was removed to reveal dences for their continued care of and commitment to the preserthe original balconies, stenciling and woodwork. vation of an architecturally significant house over a minimum of seven years.

Stewardship Award

Jell-O Museum of the LeRoy Historical Society 23 E. Main Street, Village of LeRoy, Genesee County The Stewardship Award recognizes an organization or municipality that has provided continued care of and commitment to the preservation of an architecturally and/or historically signifi-

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7 Hardwood Hill Road Town of Perinton, Monroe County Owners: Sterling and Jean Weaver Home to the same family this exceptional house in 1965 using a design by M. Cunningham.

With its handsome materials, wooded setting

School for the Deaf City of Rochester Recipient of a 2010 Special Citation

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for more than five decades, was built by the Weavers Rochester architect James

and striking design, this house is further enhanced by its period furnishings.

5864 Torrey Road Town of Bethany, Genesee County Owners: Geoffrey and Susan Briggs One of the oldest houses in Genesee County, this Federal-style residence was originally built c. 1824 -’25 by Connecticut pioneer John Deshon. During the next two centuries, the house experienced few changes, with its center chimney, delicate woodwork and remarkable stenciling all intact. After a long period of neglect, the vacant house was purchased in 1969 by the Briggs family, who has lovingly restored it over the past four decades.

Special Achievement Award William “Bill” Andrews

The Special Achievement Award recognizes accomplishments that have occurred over a lengthy period of time.

A long-time civic leader and community activist, William Andrews is one of the most creative, effective, and energetic volunteers in our region.

Known affectionately as “Mr. Brockport,” this retired faculty member of the College at Brockport’s political science department is chairman of the Village Preservation Board, former village historian, coordinator of the “Welcome Center” along the Erie Canal, vice-president of the Greater Brockport Development Corporation and president of the Brockport Museum. His many decades of public service have enhanced the quality of life in the Brockport/Sweden community.

Special Citations

Rochester School for the Deaf 1545 St. Paul Street, City of Rochester, Monroe County Donuts Delite 1700 Culver Road, City of Rochester, Monroe County A Special Citation provides recognition for projects that do not fit into other categories or recognizes outstanding individual or group accomplishments in the field of historic preservation.

Rochester School for the Deaf A nationally recognized institution for the education of the hearing impaired, the Rochester School for the Deaf has been a major anchor in the 14621 neighborhood for over 133 years. Eli-

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Donuts Delite

City of Rochester Recipient of a 2010 Special Citation

gible for listing in the State and National Registers of Historic Places, its historic campus overlooking the Genesee River is a complex of distinctive buildings, landscaping and picturesque views of the adjacent river gorge.

Donuts Delite An iconic 1950s commercial building that began as a dairy bar and operated for 47 years as a donut shop, Donuts Delite was closed in 2005 and offered for sale. Local businessman Sam Fantauzzo has rehabilitated this signature building, maintaining its most recognized design features, while adapting it for continued use as a donut and pizza emporium.

Paul Malo Award for Community Preservation Advocacy Mayor Victoria Daly Village of Palmyra, Wayne County

The Paul Malo Award recognizes an individual in our 9-county area whose work in the field of historic preservation advocacy has been of exceptional merit.

Preservation organizer and community activist extraordinaire, Vicky Daly has provided dynamic leadership for the village of Palmyra and the Erie Canal corridor through the establishment of the first local preservation ordinance in Wayne County, the promotion of heritage tourism, and the rehabilitation of their community’s historic resources.

Craftsman Award Kurt Catalano

The Craftsman Award recognizes the accomplishments of those whose talents such as carpentry, masonry, stained glass, plasterwork or decorative painting, have contributed to the rehabilitation and restoration of historic resources in our 9-county area.

The premier roofing specialist in our area, Kurt Catalano brings exceptional skill and outstanding workmanship to the demanding craft of roofing projects that feature slate, ceramic tile and copper repair. Several of his local projects have been featured in “Old House Journal” magazine.

We hope to see you at the Annual Meeting on November 14!

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First Presbyterian Church East Avon Recipient of a 2010 Award of Merit

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TRAVELOGUE

The Landmark Society offers a variety of trips, tours and excursions ranging from day trips to weekend getaways.

Travelogue highlights upcoming travel opportunities.

All tours will be escorted by The Landmark Society staff.

May 12-15, 2011

BRANDYWINE VALLEY

ABOVE: The Brandywine River Museum offers a large collection of American art for tour goers.

BELOW: Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and scenic vistas of the Brandywine River Valley.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF NEMOURS MANSION AND GARDENS

ome explore historic gardens, art museums, military history, waterfront revitalization, grand mansions and pastoral scenery in the Brandywine Valley of southeastern Pennsylvania and northwestern Delaware.

This trip truly has something for everyone! For art lovers, we will visit the Delaware Center for the Contemporary Arts and the Brandywine River Museum, known for its unparalleled collection of works by three generations of Wyeths and its fine collection of American illustration, still life and landscape paintings.

Interested in historic landscapes and architecture? Come enjoy the 300 acres of Pierre S. DuPont’s Longwood Gardens; Nemours, a 300-acre estate with a 102room mansion and gardens (pictured above); and Winterthur, renowned for its museum of American decorative arts and a 60- acre naturalistic garden. Riverfront Wilmington presents an exciting counterpoint as an example of urban waterfront revitalization. Civil War buffs will delight in the short ferry trip to Fort Delaware.

Other highlights include historic Kennett Square and the Chadds Ford Winery. For booking information, contact Greylock Discovery Tours at (585) 546-7029 x23.

Cost: $1,350 per person Reservation deadline: January 12, 2011 12

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ABOVE PHOTOS BY MICHAEL KAHN COURTESY OF BRANDYWINE MUSEUM

July 28-31, 2011

CRAYOLA CRAYON FACTORY & LEHIGH VALLEY

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his trip is perfect for the whole family. Particpants can unleash their inner creativity at the Crayola Factory, where visitors travel to different creative stations, drawing, painting and designing with the latest Crayola products. Visitors will also learn about the history of the Crayola brand and see a live demonstration of the crayon-making process.

After the Crayola tour, interactive exhibits at the National Canal Museum will provide everyone with a hands-on learning experience. Learn about canals aboard the Josiah White II canal boat at Hugh Moore Park. The tour then moves to the Da Vinci Science Center in Allentown, PA. Round out the trip with an exciting visit to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. For booking information contact Precision Planning at 1-800-634-5642.

Cost: $1,100 per adult, $350 per child (minimum age 5) Reservation deadline: March 26, 2011

Who doesn’t remember the excitement of opening a new box of crayons as a child? Come rediscover the joy of creating! Lively and educational, this tour of the Lehigh Valley is an experience perfect for all ages and interest groups.

September 11-14, 2011

THE CHAMPLAIN VALLEY

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bsorb the rich cultural history and architecture of the Champlain Valley while also taking in sensational scenic views of the Adirondack Mountains, the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain.

In New York, we will visit Fort Ticonderoga, a restored 18th-century military fortress, and The King’s Garden, a recreation of a Colonial Revival style garden. Experts from Adirondack Architectural Heritage (AARCH) will lead us through the town of Essex and the village of Port Henry.

In Vermont, we will travel to Shelburne Farms, a National Historic Landmark, nonprofit environmental education center, and 1,400-acre working farm. Visitors will enjoy a guided tour of the property, including the spectacular 1891 Breeding Barn, once the largest openspan wooden structure in America. Tour goers will also visit the one-of-kind Shelburne Museum, which features an unconventional collection of art, Americana, artifacts and relocated historic buildings.

Other highlights of the tour include a dinner cruise on Lake Champlain, a visit to the Morgan Horse Farm in Weybridge and a tour of Hildene, Robert Todd Lincoln’s estate in the village of Manchester. For booking information contact Greylock Discovery Tours at (585) 546-7029 x23.

Cost: $1,350 per person Reservation deadline: May 11, 2011

ABOVE: Robert Todd Lincoln built Hildene, his Georgian Revival mansion, in 1905 as a summer get away. It became home to Lincoln descendants until 1975, BELOW: Shelburne Farms is another stop on our excursion to the Champlain Valley which also includes a dinner cruise on Lake Champlain.

IMAGES COURTESY OF SHELBURNE FARMS

Fall 2010 13

DAY TRIPS June 10, 2011

June 25, 2011

FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT

ROCHESTER’S LOST ARCHITECTS

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uxury motor coach provides round-trip transportation from Rochester to Buffalo for this tour of two Frank Lloyd Wright-designed properties: the campus of the Darwin Martin House, a signature 1904 project with two Prairie-style houses (the main house is closed for renovation) and Graycliff Estate, the vacation property built for the Martin family in 1926 – ’27 on Lake Erie. Lunch will be at the Roycroft Inn, an Artsand-Crafts landmark in the picturesque village of East Aurora. For booking information contact Precision Planning at 1-800-634-5642.

Cost: $180 per person Reservation deadline: April 8, 2011

September 23, 2011

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ure to be a favorite for locals and visitors alike, luxury motor coach transportation will take the group to sites designed in the 19th and 20th centuries by noted Rochester-area architects with a stop for lunch at an outstanding area restaurant. For booking information contact Precision Planning at 1-800-634-5642.

Cost: $85 per person Reservation deadline: April 25, 2011

MONTOUR FALLS AND BELHURST CASTLE

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our the historic village of Montour Falls, New York aboard luxury coach transportation. This village was previously known as Catherine’s Town for Catherine Montour. Catherine was also known as Queen Catherine, a prominent Iroquois woman in the late 18th century. Enjoy the scenic Shequaga Falls that overlook the town of Montour Falls, with a stop at the Schuyler County Historical Society’s Brick Tavern Museum. On our way back to Rochester we will stop at the beautiful, historic Belhurst Castle for a truly unique dining experience.

For booking information contact Precision Planning at 1-800-634-5642.

Cost: $180 per person Reservation deadline: July 22, 2011

October 14, 2011

AURORA AND MACKENZIE-CHILDS

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elax as a luxury motor coach carries you from Rochester to Aurora, NY. Mackenzie-Childs has thrived in the 21st century on a small farm in rural, central New York producing ceramics and home furnishings. Marvel as you tour the studios where one-of-a-kind collectibles are handcrafted by over 140 artisans. Their unique designs are inspired by the beauty of the surrounding lakes, meadows and flowing hillsides. There will be time to shop if you would like to make any of these works of art your own. A relaxing lunch on the lake is included.

For booking information contact Precision Planning at 1-800-634-5642.

Cost: $160 per person Reservation deadline: August 12, 2011 14

Landmarks

IN THE COMMUNITY

CAN YOU WALK THE WALK?

By Cindy Boyer Director of Museums and Education

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“

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE

say, ‘Yes!’ Kids should see this! They need to see a real-life her story. Throughout the show, interactive activities engage the thing!” Attending The Landmark Society’s “Walk the Walk: audience – and each story blends historic information with imporEncounters with Rochester’s African-American Ancestors” tant lessons about character, education and citizenship. According inspired this comment from a 5th grader in the Rochester City to one young man, “I learned how to be strong, be successful with School District. my life, and stay encouraged.”

However, “Walk the Walk” That’s the power of “Walk is not just for kids. This prothe Walk,” and students who gram is for anyone who wants attended last year’s showings to be moved, inspired and enhad more inspirational words to tertained. Another 5th grader share about the performances. summed up why the perfor“Mary Jackson was a mance is so valuable: “To be brave girl and I want to be successful you have to know like her,” reflected one inabout your ancestors. You spired young girl. have to know the past to know Another viewer shared the future.” that “Anna Murray Douglass “Walk the Walk” brings to taught me how to fight with life African-Americans from words and not violence.”

Rochester’s past. The LandTo help teachers share mark Society offers two differthese important lessons, parent opportunities to experience ticipating classrooms will reit: school performance days and ceive pre-and-post visit matea free evening performance that rials and activities – helping is open to the public. them meet curriculum stanWhether you are a teacher dards in social studies, literaor just know a child in school – ture and art. you can encourage educators to Community members can bring their classes to “Walk the also participate and share in Walk.” At each performance, Rochester’s unique African students and audience members American history. encounter Rochester’s AfricanTo celebrate Black History American ancestors via talented Month in February 2011, The actors whose messages really Landmark Society will offer a resonate with young people. free evening performance of “Frederick Douglass was “Walk the Walk: Encounters inspirational to me,” says one with Rochester’s AfricanStudents will experience an onstage performance as each ancestor student who attended last year’s shares their story, like Anna Murray Douglass, best known as the wife American Ancestors” that will performance. “He did every- of abolitionist Frederick Douglass, played by Jacquelyn Dobson. be open to the public. thing he could to stop the bad Please watch for the spethings going on.” cific dates in upcoming e-mails or on our website, www.landmark“Mary Jackson was my favorite story,” shared another student. society.org. If you are a teacher, you can sign up to be on the “Walk “Because if people need help in their lives – it’s OK to help. It the Walk” e-mail list by contacting Cindy Boyer at cboyer@landcame into my heart when she told that story.” marksociety.org. Sign up now and be among the first to receive An on stage performance, each featured ancestor shares his or registration details.

Fall 2010 15

CALENDAR

Considered to be one of the finest examples of Greek Revival architecture in western New York, the prominent Ely House is one of many examples of outstanding architecture found in the Corn Hill Neighborhood. The Corn Hill Holiday Tour of Homes highlights many of the stunning residences in this highly desirable area. Decked out in lights and holiday finery, the tour is ideal for families.

Both calendar photos were provided by Steve Baldwin. To view more photos by Steve, visit his website at www.studioastute.com.

CHILDREN’S EVENT MUSEUM EVENT GENERAL EVENT TRAVELOGUE EVENT For updated schedules or to learn more about upcoming events, visit us at www.landmarksociety.org or call (585) 546-7029.

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER 13 Holiday Wreath Making at Ellwanger

Rosemary Janofsky, innkeeper at the Ellwanger Estate B&B, invites you to join horticulturalist Nellie Gardner for a workshop on wreath making. All materials will be provided. The class will be held at the Ellwanger Carriage House and is limited to the first 30 participants.

Register by e-mailing Info@ 16

Landmarks

ellwangerestate.com.

TIME: 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.

LOCATION:

Ellwanger Estate Carriage House 625 Mt. Hope Avenue

NOVEMBER 14 Historic Preservation Awards & Annual Meeting

The Landmark Society honors some of the area’s best examples of restoration and the dedicated care of historic structures at its annual meeting. The venue for this year’s meeting is the beautiful and historically significant Academy of Medicine building in the city of Rochester. The meeting is free and open to the membership of The Landmark Society as well as the public.

TIME: 3:00 p.m.

LOCATION:

Academy of Medicine 1441 East Avenue

DECEMBER DECEMBER 4 Corn Hill Holiday Tour of Homes

Begin celebrating the holidays with a tour of beautifully deckedout homes in one of the country’s best-preserved 19th-century neighborhoods. Hosted by the Corn Hill Neighbors Association, this year’s tour features both new homes and old favorites decorated in festive holiday cheer. Tour goers can choose between the traditional tour and the candlelight tour. For ticket information contact the Corn Hill office at (585) 262-3142 or go online at store.cornhill.org.

TIME: 9 a.m. or noon Candlelight tour 4 p.m.

LOCATION:

End Time Deliverance Ministry 144 Edinburgh Street

FEBRUARY DATE TBA, 2011 Walk the Walk: Encounters with Rochester’s African American Ancestors In this moving collection of dramatic vignettes, African Americans from the city’s past describe the freedoms and frustrations they experienced in America’s first boomtown. Watch for the specific dates in upcoming e-mails or on our website, www.landmarksociety.org. For school performance days contact Cindy Boyer at cboyer@landmarksociety.org and be among the first to receive registration details.

TIME: TBA LOCATION: TBA

MARCH DATE TBA 2011 Rochester City Living Sundays

City Living Sundays bring together area lenders, neighborhood associations, the Greater Rochester Association of Realtors, The Landmark Society of Western N.Y. and the Rochester City School District to showcase Rochester homes while promoting the unique advantages of city living.

TIME: TBA LOCATION: TBA

APRIL APRIL 2011 Reopening of the StoneTolan House Museum

This rural tavern on the frontier in Brighton, NY reopens for groups and individuals. Hours are Friday and Saturday 12:00 - 3:00 p.m.

Group tours of six or more can be scheduled daily, except Monday.

LOCATION: 2370 East Avenue

APRIL 30, 2011 25th Annual Preservation Conference

The Silver Anniversary presentation of The Landmark Society’s Annual Conference will be held in Dansville. We will be highlighting a selection of preservation projects underway at the only annual preservation event offered in New York. For more information see the News section on page 5.

TIME: TBA. LOCATION:

Dansville, NY

MAY MAY 12-15, 2011 Brandywine Valley

Come explore historic gardens, art museums, military history, waterfront revitalization, grand mansions and pastoral scenery in the Brandywine Valley of southeastern Pennsylvania and northwestern Delaware. Tour goers will visit the Delaware Center for the Con-

temporary Arts, the Brandywine River Museum, Pierre S. DuPont’s Longwood Gardens and more! For more information see the Travelogue section on page 12.

JUNE JUNE 4-5, 2011 House and Garden Tour Our 41st annual tour takes us to the Browncroft Neighborhood.

TIME: TBA LOCATION: TBA

JUNE 10, 2011 Frank Lloyd Wright Tour

Enjoy a luxury motor coach round trip from Rochester to Buffalo and tour two Frank Lloyd Wrightdesigned properties: the campus of the Darwin Martin House and Graycliff Estate. Lunch will be at the Roycroft Inn, a renowned Arts and Crafts landmark in the picturesque village of East Aurora.

For more information see the Travelogue section on page 14.

JUNE 10, 17 & 21, 2011 Architecture for Lunch

Join Cynthia Howk for a lunchtime walking tour of some of Rochester’s best known architectural gems.

TIME: TBA LOCATION: TBA

JUNE 25, 2011 Rochester’s Lost Architects

Crayola products. Travel aboard the Josiah White II canal boat at Hugh Moore Park and visit the Da Vinci Science Center. Round out the trip with an exciting visit to Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom. For more information see the Travelogue section on page 13.

erine Montour. Enjoy the scenic Shequaga Falls that overlook the town of Montour Falls, with a stop at the Schuyler County Historical Society’s Brick Tavern Museum.

We will stop at historic Belhurst Castle for a unique dining experience. For more information see the Travelogue section on page 14.

SEPTEMBER 23, 2011 Inside Downtown 2011

SEPTEMBER

Save the date!

SEPTEMBER 11-14, 2011 The Champlain Valley of New York and Vermont

Absorb the history and architecture of the Champlain Valley while taking in scenic views of the Adirondacks, the Green Mountains and Lake Champlain. Explore Fort Ticonderoga, the town of Essex and the village of Port Henry. In Vermont, enjoy a guided tour of Hildene, Shelburne Farms and more! For more information see the Travelogue Section on page 13.

SEPTEMBER 23, 2011 Montour Falls & Belhurst Castle

Tour the historic village of Montour Falls, previously known as Catherine’s Town for Cath-

OCTOBER OCTOBER 14, 2011 Aurora Village & Mackenzie-Childs

Enjoy luxury motor coach roundtrip transportation from Rochester to Aurora, NY. With time-honored crafts, marvel as you tour the Mackenzie-Childs studios where one-of-a-kind collectibles are handcrafted by over 140 artisans.

There will be time to shop if you would like to make any of these works of art your own. A relaxing lunch on the lake is included. For more information see the Travelogue section on page 14.

Join

The Corn Hill

2010 Holiday Tour of Homes

Luxury motor coach transportation will take participants to local sites designed in the 19th and 20th centuries by noted local architects with a stop for lunch at an area restaurant. For more information about this trip, see the Travelogue section on page 14.

JULY JULY 28-31, 2011 Crayola Crayon Factory & Lehigh Valley Tour

Adults and children alike will have the opportunity to unleash their inner creativity at the Crayola Crayon Factory using the latest

Saturday December 4, 2010 9 am 12 PM tour $20 Enhanced 4 pm tour $27

&

Tickets available November 1 online at cornhill.org or by calling (585) 262-3142

Fall 2010 17

133 South Fitzhugh STREET Rochester, NEW YORK 14608-2204 Interim Executive Director

David J. Whitaker

Director of Museums & Education

Cindy Boyer

Landmarks Editor & Designer

Eric Bridle

Grants Administrator

Maranne McDade Clay Associate Editor

Lisa M. Feinstein Horticulturist

Beverly Gibson

Receptionist & Administrative Assistant

Carolyn Haywood

Membership Associate

Norma Jean Hildreth

Architectural Research Coordinator

Cynthia Howk

Executive Assistant

Cherise Jordan Finance Officer

Carole Lombard

Preservation Planner

Caitlin Meives

Events and Volunteer Coordinator

Shelley O’Brien

Director of Development

Mark Powell

Museums & Education Associate

Sharon Pratt

Stone-Tolan Tour Guide

Judith Trabert

Membership is a gift that lasts all year ...

No batteries or assembly required. We promise!

To purchase a gift membership call (585) 546-7029 x16

PHOTO BY STEVE BALDWIN

Long after the final present has been unwrapped and the last card has been opened, a gift membership to The Landmark Society of Western New York will keep on giving. Whether you share membership with a family whose children can experience the Stone-Tolan House in August and the Ghost Walk in October, a retired couple who would enjoy a visit to Ellwanger Gardens in May, or a college grad who might find the perfect loft apartment on the Inside Downtown Tour in September, a gift membership lasts all year.