Landmarks Fall 2011

Landmarks FALL 2011: VOLUME XLIX, NUMBER IV

THE LANDMARK SOCIETY OF WESTERN NEW YORK

The Inside Downtown Tour

“We are turning derelict liabilities into solid assets…”

O

ver the past several months, I have been impressed with why The Landmark Society of Western New York is one of America’s oldest and most respected preservation organizations. The progress we have made in this short time has been incredible. The support from members and donors representing both the private and public sectors continues to inspire me. Saying “thank you” hardly seems adequate to express my level of appreciation. Nevertheless, I say “thank you,” for sustaining our work to preserve, protect and promote our unique heritage.

What are we doing to make a difference through the use of our unique heritage?

We are assisting in marketing vacant and endangered buildings, connecting historic buildings in need with qualified and responsible stewards. We are actively developing solutions to endangered historic resources. We are partnering with others to use preservation as a means to reverse negative property value trends in struggling communities. We are helping communities identify and protect historic resources.

We are engaged with large rehabilitation/development projects, bringing investment and jobs to our region. We are turning derelict liabilities into solid assets. We are, through various methods, educating the public; validating the need to save our heritage. We are asking state government to support preservation’s role in fostering economic growth. Instead of an obstacle to development, we are actively assisting development that uses heritage as an economic generator. This is what you are supporting and it is vitally important.

All too often the unique heritage of a community is sold to the highest bidder– making future economic development more difficult. Instead, we preservationists employ adaptive use, rehabilitation, smart growth and neighborhood revitalization to foster enduring economic growth and sustainable futures that benefit one and all. Our history makes our lives more satisfying, strengthens our economies and bolsters our individuality as a region. In short, we are using our heritage to secure a brighter future . . . for ourselves and for the future residents in our corner of The Empire State.

This is an exciting time. We have the opportunity to communicate to new audiences about why preservation makes sense. We have the responsibility to do so; you make it possible. Stay tuned and get involved!

All the best,

Wayne Goodman 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 Bleu Cease Joanne DeMarle Jean R. France Sandra Frankel Andy Germanow Joseph R. Hanna James I. Marasco Michael Mincher Bill Moehle Carol S. Mullin

Edward J. Olinger Ann Penwarden Jeffrey J. Pollock Christopher Sardone Peter Siegrist William F. Sullivan David Whitaker Allen Williams At Large: Jerry Ludwig Mimi Freund Tilton Stacey VanDenburgh

DISCOVER, PROTECT AND REVITALIZE

COVER: SPOT COFFEE SHOP, EAST AVENUE, ROCHESTER NY; PHOTO BY Gary Whelpley Photography PHOTOS BY: DavID boyer (Bottom Left)

Landmarks 6

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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 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 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.

Fax (585) 546-4788. Look for our website at www.landmarksociety.org.

E-mail us at mail@landmarksociety.org.

NEWS

3 HOUSE NOTES 6 FEATURE: INSIDE DOWNTOWN TOUR 8 PRESERVATION NEWS 10 TRAVELOGUE

12 CALENDAR 17 FALL 2011

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Member Profile: “A Good Steward” NEWS ON THE CAMPBELL-WHITTLESEY-HOUSE SALE

By Carolyn Bick and Cindy Boyer

The Landmark Society is thrilled to announce that it has sold the

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

Campbell-Whittlesey House to Landmark member Dr. Ronald Yearwood, who will be the latest in a line of good stewards for this 175 year old structure. The house was a private home from 1836 to 1937. In 1937 the Landmark Society saved and restored the house and operated it as a museum until June of 2010. It was decided to list the former museum in August 2010 as a result of several years of strategic planning and a refocused mission to promote preservation and planning practices that foster healthy, livable communities. Maintaining a static museum was no longer congruent to this mission.

The return of this building to private hands will ensure that this home remains a living and viable resource. The sale was accompanied by protective covenants that will ensure preservation of the home’s significant architectural details. These covenants will remain a part of the deed during Dr. Yearwood’s ownership, and will pass on to future owners, giving perpetual legal protection.

Dr. Yearwood is in the process of completing his residency in general psychiatry at the University of Rochester Medical Center.

He was born in Venezuela and raised in the country of Grenada.

He attended college in England where he received his master’s degree in system analysis, design, and project management before embarking on his medical career. A full national scholarship awarded by the government of Grenada allowed him the opportunity to pursue his medical career in Rochester.

Before deciding to finish his studies and settle in Rochester, Dr. Yearwood toured the U.S.A. He decided the location and the wonderful quality of life in Rochester was the most attractive option. Dr. Yearwood told us “I had no intention at all of buying a house. But then I saw information about the sale on the internet.

I couldn’t believe what a unique opportunity this was. I saw it as a way to become part of and support the local community.”

After the sale closed, he was struck with the enormity of the responsibility to safeguard and ensure the proper stewardship of one of Rochester’s oldest homes.

Dr. Yearwood comes from a family of architects, interior designers, and art historians. His mother is an art historian in London and will be consulting on this project. Dr. Yearwood will also call upon the expert advice from the New York State Historic Preservation Office, the Corn Hill Neighbors Association, and— of course—The Landmark Society.

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Dr. Yearwood proudly holding a ceramic model of the house.

Dr. Yearwood is proceeding very carefully. “I recognize this is not a project that will be completed quickly, and I am very comfortable with that.” He is working on a master plan that will proceed in stages, starting from the outside of the building with needed paint and repairs to the building envelope, then gradually proceeding to interior work. He expects the major work will take place over a timeline of 3 to 5 years. Dr. Yearwood is very familiar with long term goals: he still has 18 months to complete his residency.

Dr. Yearwood’s intention at this time is to keep the Campbell-Whittlesey House as a private residence.

Future plans include locating his private practice in the building, Corn Hill Center for Healthy Living and Healthy Minds. Some of the additional space will be used to incorporate art, pet and humor therapy as part of the services offered to his clients.

The Landmark Society appreciates his passion and investment in the Campbell-Whittlesey House. Our whole community is incredibly fortunate to keep this property in such thoughtful and caring hands.

NEWS

In The Loop Landmark to partner with Rochester Contemporary Art Center on “In the Loop” Exhibit.

The Landmark Society will be one of several artists and contributors to the Rochester Contemporary Art Center (RoCo) 2011 State of the City Exhibit: “In the Loop.” It will take Rochester’s nearly 50 year old Inner Loop ring highway as the departure point. Diverse methods such as traditional landscape painting, interactive video and more will encourage us to discuss the history and future of Downtown Rochester.

The Landmark Society is Going Green!

The Landmark Society went “green” long before reusable shopping bags, LEED certification, and organic shampoo became popular. As an organization that advocates for and fosters preservation, we have been practicing sustainability for almost 75 years. Historic preservation is, after all, the ultimate recycling. While preservation is a critical component in revitalizing urban communities and rural villages, it is also central to smart growth and environmentally sustainable development.

Now, you might say, “Hold on—those old buildings are drafty energy hogs.” The truth is, older buildings have an undeserved bad reputation. Built before the advent of air conditioning and efficient heating systems, historic buildings were designed with sustainable elements that responded to the environment. Hard data from academic studies and the U.S. Energy Information Administration support this claim.

As global warming and the concepts of sustainability and carbon footprints become ever more present in our lexicon, we—and other organizations like the National Trust for Historic Preservation—are trying to get the message out that preservation is inherently “green.” As part of that effort, The Landmark Society will be participating in the Greentopia Festival, September 17 and 18 in Rochester’s High Falls neighborhood. Greentopia is Rochester’s and the Finger Lakes’ celebration of the green movement sweeping around the globe. The interactive festival will reveal what the region is doing to help the environment— and envision a greener Rochester.

For more information on sustainability and preservation, contact Caitlin Meives, Preservation Planner at The Landmark Society, cmeives@landmarksociety.org.

Landmark Society will present a visual display and timeline of the history of Rochester’s Inner Loop, putting our highway in context of other ring roads from around the country and beyond. The artists in the exhibition will respond the Loop in interesting and surprising ways. The Landmark Society’s factual history of Rochester’s urban highway will provide an important and engaging contrast to the artists’ works inspired by the same piece of our urban landscape.

The exhibit will run from August 5 to September 25–the closing weekend coincides with the Inside Downtown tour dates (see page 8 for tour information.) Tour goers will be able to visit the gallery–but don’t wait until then, there are lots of activities planned around this fascinating exhibit.

Visit RoCo’s website at www.rochestercontemporary.org for information.

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Farewell, Stuart

2011 House and Garden Tour The 2011 House and Garden Tour is now history, and we are adding up the results. Number of winners in the raffle for the Allegiance B&B stay: 1 (congratulations to Julian Thomas!) Number of steps walked up and down: over 100. Number of pairs of hands assisting: over 500. Number of blue shoe covers put on and removed: 3,700. Number of interesting, enjoyable, and informative moments experienced: incalculable!

Our 41st Annual House and Garden Tour was a great success, no matter how you measure it. Our House and Garden Tour gives participants the opportunity to see the outside and tour the interiors of some of Rochester’s loveliest and most architecturally interesting homes. The Browncroft neighborhood was the perfect place for such an event. Visitors enjoyed the classic elegance of a center entrance Colonial Revival, the whimsy of the art studio and the “carnival game” room, and the surprise of the ranch house – and, the spectacular gardens in this neighborhood!

“How To Market Historic Houses Successfully” Class Returns The ever-popular “How To Market Historic Houses Successfully” returns this fall, offering licensed realtors 15 hours of Continuing Educational Credits in two all-day sessions.

Scheduled November 8 and November 15, this course is sponsored by the Greater Rochester Association of Realtors and The Landmark Society. It features information about architectural styles, grant programs, the evolution of Rochester neighborhoods, maintaining historic houses, Rochester’s notable architects, regulations for designated landmark properties, and funding programs. Classroom lectures are combined with bus tours of historic city neighborhoods with commentary by our expert staff. Instructors include Cynthia Howk, architectural historian Jean France, and preservation consultant, Steve Jordan. This course is open to licensed realtors and the general public. Register early, call 546-7029 ext. 24.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

Stuart Bolger, long-time trustee, colleague, and friend of numerous Landmark Society members died on May 9 at Highland Hospital at the age of 89. Stuart’s lifelong mission was to keep history alive – especially the history of the Genesee Valley pioneers and their successors. He was the first director of the Genesee Country Village and Museum, which opened in 1976. As a Landmark Society trustee from 1967 to 1993, Stuart was responsible for the architectural research and restoration of the Stone-Tolan House property. He donated hundreds of Left to Right, Stuart Bolger, Dan Barber and Jessie Woodward hours of labor, as well as his expertise, to the physical oversee the archaeological dig at Stone-Tolan in 1965. restoration of the property. He also served as the Society’s chief historic architecture and restoration consultant until professional staff was hired in 1980. A man of great wit and a writer and story-teller par excellence, he never believed his job at these two museums was complete. A founding member of Historic Pittsford, Stuart was the chief consultant and advisor on the architectural restoration of “The Little House” and other historic properties. In 2002, The Landmark Society honored his outstanding contributions to historic preservation with our “Special Achievement Award.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

NEWS

NEWS Grant Support Update The Community Speaks

By Maranne McDade Clay, Grants Administrator

The Landmark Society thanks the Allyns Creek Garden Club, Bergmann Associates, the Fred and Floy Willmott Foundation, M&T Bank, Monroe County, the New York State Council on the Arts, the historic preservation, Holahan and Executive Director funds of the Rochester Area Community Foundation, and the Helen and Ritter Shumway Foundation for more than $85,000 in grant funds awarded to The Landmark Society in fiscal year 2010-2011.

Finally, as The Landmark Society is a grateful recipient of our funders’ philanthropy, we endeavor to maximize our resources for the community good. In October 2010, 565 pounds of apples were harvested from the Stone-Tolan orchard and donated to Foodlink, Inc. Our funders provide a wide range of support for Landmark Society programs. This is crucial to sustain not only our programs, but our organization’s fiscal health. This past year, The Landmark Society experienced a 17% cut to our general operating support funding from the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA). We anticipate another 10%.

As a result, we will continue to broaden and diversify our field of funding support.

Preservation.

An investment that benefits us all.

We salute the work of The Landmark Society of Western New York.

Grant support provided meaningful, culturally relevant programming to more than 1,000 traditionally underserved school age children, as well as contributes to The Landmark Society’s 2012 initiative at the Stone-Tolan campus. The proposed project will include a survey of campus buildings, the cultural and historic landscape, and an evaluation of educational and interpretive programming.

Another primary benefactor was the East Avenue Historic Preservation District. The Preservation Services staff and support historic district covenants on individual buildings, as well as to the East Avenue Preservation District. The task is formidable in the mile and a half long district which numbers more than 700 properties within its boundaries.

A unique form of support comes from the Allyn’s Creek Garden Club. On May 9th, twenty volunteers dedicated more than 60 hours of volunteer time to weeding, raking, and spring clean up of the Stone-Tolan campus. Their efforts made a tremendous difference in the appearance of the grounds.

Hugh Hamlin Senior Vice President–Investments 400 Linden Oaks, Rochester, NY 14625 hugh.a.hamlin@ubs.com 585-218-4500

We will not rest UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. ©2011 UBS Financial Services Inc. All rights reserved. Member SIPC. 7.11_Ad_7.5x4.5_RA0512_HamH

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540 South Ave Rochester, NY 14620 585.325.2329

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FALL 2011

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HOUSE NOTES

Maintaining Your Historic Porch

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

A properly maintained porch is a credit to any house. Because they are extremely vulnerable to every whim of the weather, porches usually require more maintenance than the rest of your house. Piles of melting snow saturate intricate joinery, torrential rain blows into obscure crevices, and summer sunlight bakes the paint and bare wood. To avoid the deterioration of your porch, it is important to be proactive in its maintenance. The steps at right are just a few of the ways you can ensure the longevity of your beautiful outdoor space.

As the summer comes to a close and you enjoy the remnants of warmth before another upstate winter, be sure to pay attention to any needs of your roof and gutter systems as they are more susceptible to failure in the coming months!

Adopted and updated from Rehab Rochester by Steve Jordan.

Originally published by The Landmark Society and out of print, it will be available as an eBook in an updated edition.

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ROOF Inspect your porch roof yearly for worn shingles and flashing. Never apply a second or third layer of shingles; the extra weight and height might create problems. The flashing at the junction between your porch and house is important and should be replaced if deteriorated.

GUTTERS Porches shed an enormous amount of yearly rain and snow. Deterioration usually follows the outer perimeter that is most often wet. Unfortunately, this includes the banister, balusters (spindles), and the tongue-and-groove floor-three important elements that are expensive to replace. Properly installed gutters will direct excessive moisture away from these vulnerable elements and the foundation.

FOUNDATION Many porches droop from the settling of inadequate pier footings. Cracked and warped floors, deflected horizontal lines, leaning columns, and sagging gutters are the common results. If extreme settling is evident, excavate footings below the frost line and reuse the historic materials (stone, brick, block, etc.) above grade. To correct minor settling, jack the porch into level and install shims between the framing and the piers.

FRAMING Use pressure-treated lumber for the framing under the porch. If joists must be doubled up or layered, use a spacer to maintain an airspace between boards and to prevent moisture from being trapped between them. Always use a spacer between the rim joist and the finish apron or skirting.

FLOOR Porch decks are traditionally constructed with tongue-and-groove planks inclined away from the house. 5/4 tongue-and-groove flooring is best-anything thinner might be springy and doesn’t look authentic.

(5/4” is the dimension before planing; it’s actually about 1” thick as purchased.) Backprime new decking and seal the tongues and grooves and all end grain as new boards are installed. On existing lumber, remove failing paint and recoat immediately.

COLUMNS Replace rotting column bases before deterioration moves up column shafts or into the deck and framing. Backprime all base parts and end grain cuts and install columns on lead shims or metal plinths to allow air circulation under and up through the column.

RAILINGS When reconstructing an entire section, balusters and the lower rail can be designed to shed water away from the joinery. Although seldom seen today, most late Victorian porch rails continued in design down the steps and terminated into a newel that was similar to the columns. Prime all parts on every side before assembly. If your rail sags, use a small painted block between the lower rail and the floor to support the center. Monitor the block to ensure that trapped moisture doesn’t deteriorate paint and rot the floor SKIRTING Decorative skirting around the porch keeps animals out but allows essential air circulation under the deck and stairs. This circulation is crucial in preventing dampness that attracts carpenter ants, termites, and fungus, and contributes to peeling paint. Lattice and intricate cutout designs in a sturdy frame were used throughout the 19th and early 20th century. If the grade around your porch has risen, there might be a depression under the porch. If this is the case at your house, backfill this area or remove earth from the lawn to prevent ponding water from accumulating under the porch.

What the Docent Heard

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

by Sharon Pratt, Education Associate

While

walking around the vast Stone-Tolan grounds with a fourth grade class from Indian Landing School, I noticed the roses were in full, fragrant bloom. I suggested that we stop and smell the roses.

From the back of the group I heard, “Oh, so that’s where that saying came from!” The rewards of being a docent are never ending in the children’s c o m m e n t s , thoughtful questions, and answers during tours at the Stone-Tolan House Museum. Their responses are usually connected to the historic topics we’re exploring – but every once in a while we enjoy a charming reaction like the rose remark. But there are more rewards in being a docent than the children’s comments.

That same day I asked two long time docents why they continue to volunteer. One responded “I enjoy the ties to my local past and the opportunity to share it with others. I also have a deep respect for those who lived here.” The other docent said, “It keeps my mind stimulated. I had a teacher who made history come alive for me. Being a docent gives me the opportunity to do that for others.”

Second and fourth grade tours focus on communities and how they have changed through time. Stone Tolan offers a wonderful opportunity for students to compare life today with life when the Stone family lived and worked there on a large farm and also ran a tavern. Our tours involve leading the students to discover the activities that the Stone family participated in through observation and games. Children are often quite surprised to learn the responsibilities that children their age had 200 years ago.

If you are interested finding out more about the rewards and responsibilities of being a docent and sharing the “Stone-Tolan Experience” with others? Please contact me (Sharon Pratt) at 546-7029 x15 or email her at spratt@ landmarksociety.org. There are training opportunities and our scheduling is flexible. There is also a docent gathering planned for Wednesday, September 14 in the Stone Tolan barn where you can meet the other docents. The program will be a talk by docent and Brighton Historian, Mary Jo Lanphear. She will share some new information on the Town of Brighton, where Stone Tolan is located.

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The Inside Downtown Tour

By Cindy Boyer, Director of Public Programs

How can you get “in” this September?

September 23 and 24

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veryone wants to get in. For the past 7 years, the Society has gotten you “in” to some of the most exclusive and interesting downtown interiors Rochester has to offer.

It all started in 2004 when the tour–known then as “In the Loop” showcased lofts and high rise apartments in the northeast section of downtown Rochester. Lofts in the Smith-Gormley and the Michael-Sterns buildings really opened our eyes to the variety of downtown living spaces.

The response was amazing—lots of people had been waiting to get inside!

We will center the heart of the 2011 Inside Downtown Tour in the East End! The East End epitomizes a vibrant downtown neighborhood.

With its mix of owner occupied and rental dwellings, businesses, cultural sites, restaurants and night life, everything is literally steps away.

The East End is centered on the westernmost end of East Avenue, a road that has gone through fascinating changes over its 200 year history. Created in 1811, it was a “busy”

PHOTO BY David Boyer

PHOTO BY David Boyer

Not to be limited by something like the Inner Loop highway, we expanded our vision of this tour to become “Inside Downtown”—incorporating any urban environment where folks were creating exciting spaces to live and work.

We visit re-purposed spaces, renovated homes, lovingly preserved sites, and newly built sites that are designed with sensitivity to the overall built environment.

But there is one neighborhood that has risen to the top in terms of popularity with tour goers and those seeking to become urban dwellers—one where changes are taking place at such an exciting pace that we felt drawn to return to it.

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The Inside Downtown Tour Friday, September 23 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM

Saturday September 24

PHOTO BY David Boyer

11:00 AM to 4:00 PM

rural road during its first years, as stagecoaches passed several times a day, headed for Pittsford and points east.

Traffic grew as residential areas sprouted up along the road.

The latter part of the 19th century saw the city of Rochester growing, and the East End area became more densely developed and the early residential character gave way to a mix of uses.

The final selection of sites will be found on our website and our Facebook page as the dates approach.

The absolute best way to be the first to know is to sign up for our weekly e-newsletter Landmark Alerts – you can find that at www.landmarksociety.org.

PHOTO BY David Boyer

PHOTO BY David Boyer

In the early 20th century car dealerships, apartment buildings, theaters, exclusive stores and private clubs created a downtown experience for Rochester’s upper crust. It was the logical location, since many lived in the fine homes just a few blocks down East Avenue. It’s ironic that the growing proliferation of automobiles within reach of more modest pocketbooks took a toll on this neighborhood, as suburban sprawl moved the population center away from downtown. By the end of the 20th century, the East End experienced a major resurgence, as new generations discovered the cultural attractions, nightlife and renovated and new build residences in the neighborhood.

Ticket prices are $20 in advance ($15 for members) and if available, $25 on the days of the tour. Watch for your postcard mailing at the end of August with all the details on ticket sales.

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Preservation

SCORECARD

Keeping score? We are—here’s the latest on several preservation issues around the region:

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

SAFE: Josh Lofton Building, 242 W Main St., Rochester. The City of Rochester announced this spring that Lofton Lofts LLC has been selected as the developer for the rehabilitation of the former Josh Lofton Alternative High School building into mixed office, retail, and residential uses, including the new headquarters of Passero Associates, an architecture and engineering firm.

According to the City’s press release, Lofton Lofts LLC plans to begin occupying the building, originally a factory, by the summer of 2012.

SAFE: Teoronto Block, 364-392 State St., Rochester. This block of vernacular commercial buildings was constructed between the 1840s and 1860s and is one of the oldest remaining examples of commercial architecture in the city. Taking advantage of the Federal rehabilitation tax credit program, the Urban League of Rochester has rehabilitated the block into affordable housing units.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

SAFE

OUT: Gigliotti Gas Station, Geneva.

This 1920s, semi-circular, colonnaded gas station was an unusual and rare example of early roadside architecture. Purchased by the City of Geneva as part of a now-defunct expansion plan for an adjacent site, the building sat vacant for a number of years. The City Council voted for demolition despite a purchase offer and redevelopment proposal from the nominators (305 Main Street Associates, LLC). In 2007, the site was included in the Preservation League of New York State’s “Seven to Save” list. The building was demolished this spring.

PHOTO COURTESY OF TED BARLETT AND STEVE WASHBURN

PHOTO COURTESY OF PRESERVATION LEAGUE OF NYS

OUT

OUT: Castile Sanitarium, Route 39/Main St., Castile, Wyoming County. Although the building was constructed over multiple phases, the Castile Sanitarium was founded in the late 19th century by one of the first female physicians in the country, Dr. Cordelia Green. It continued to operate as a sanitarium into the mid-20th century, at which time it was converted into apartments.

The building was demolished in April of this year.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BERO ARCHITECTURE PLLC

OUT: Former Jewish Orphan Asylum, 1170 Genesee Street, Rochester. The three Colonial Revival style buildings that once comprised the Jewish Orphan Asylum were demolished this summer. Built c.1916 and designed by local architect Leon Stern, the campus also featured a landscape design by prominent landscape architect Alling DeForest. The buildings were eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places, the nation’s official list of historic places worthy of preservation. Owner occupied, single family housing will be developed on the site.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 14 FALL 2011

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TRAVELOGUE

Upcoming travel opportunities:

September 17, 2011 2011 ANNUAL HISTORIC MAPLEWOOD HOME TOUR This year’s Historic Maplewood Home Tour will feature five historic homes, and Eastman Business Park’s (formerly Kodak Park) iconic Building 26, including the area where George Eastman’s office and conference room used to be. Building 26 serves as this year’s tour headquarters. Built in 1902 it will be open to the public for the first time! Besides Eastman memorabilia, the third floor will feature rare images including a photo of Frederick Douglass’ visit to Kodak Park and 3D perspective drawings of Kodak Park from the late 1890s through the mid-1950s. This is an exemplary adaptive use of a building that is both historic and functional. Also featured is the Eastman Memorial built in 1934. With its bas-relief images of a man representing science and a woman carrying the flame of Aspiration it is a rare example of Art Deco style public art in our area. Three of the five homes on the tour are listed on The National Register of Historic Places and one of them will be celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The tour booklet describing Building 26 and the houses is your ticket and docents will be available.

Tours are from 11:00 AM–4:00 PM. Tickets are available in advance for $10 ($8 for senior citizens) and $5 for groups of 10 or more at Parkleigh, 215 Park Ave, The Peppermill Restaurant, 1776 Dewey Ave, and Dark Horse Coffee, 274 N. Goodman (Village Gate). Tickets can also be reserved through phone by calling (585) 458-3460. Leave your name, phone number, and number of tickets desired. Tickets purchased by phone will be held under your name at the tour headquarters: Building 26, Lobby area. Tickets will also be available at the headquarters on the day of the tour for $12. To access the headquarters at Bldg. 26: Use the Kodak parking lot across the street on the east side of Lake Avenue, at the corner of Keehl Street. The entrance to the lot is marked as a private drive but will be open to the public on the day of the tour. Cross Lake Avenue at the traffic light and walk through the Eastman Memorial to the gate leading into the Kodak plant.

October 8, 2011 “RIVER ROMANCE” TOUR – Charlotte’s Mariners, Mansions & Memories

Join us for an encore walking tour of the historic Charlotte area on Saturday, October 8, from 9:30 AM to 12 PM with Landmark Society staff member, Cynthia Howk. Cosponsored by the Charlotte-Genesee Light House Society, this tour is part of the City’s “River Romance” Weekend, a major event each fall. The tour will feature the 19th-century urban development that pre-dates the founding of Rochester by 20 years!

The morning begins with refreshments and a tour of the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse, America’s oldest surviving lighthouse on Lake Ontario. You’ll then travel on a combination walking/driving expedition along River Street, where river and lake captains once lived and 19th-century daredevil, Sam Patch, is buried. Next, to Ontario Beach Park, where a restored 1905 carousel recalls the “Coney Island of the West.” The tour concludes on Beach Avenue where you’ll stroll down the “secret sidewalk” to see the elegant late-19th and early-20th-century houses that still enjoy an unparalleled view of the lake.

Please dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. Meet at the Charlotte-Genesee Lighthouse, 70 Lighthouse Street (parking available at Holy Cross Church on Lake Ave.).

Tour is $10 for members of The Landmark Society and Lighthouse Society; $15 for nonmembers. Attendance is limited, call (585) 621-6179.

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October 28-29, 2011 Ghost Walk 2011 – One Weekend Only!

As any ghost hunter knows, ghosts can be very difficult to find. Even when the “ghosts” are sharing true stories of Rochester’s darker history. The Landmark Society Ghost Walk will be returning for its 18th year, but it will be only two nights, instead of four: Friday, October 28th and Saturday, October 29th!

Landmark Society Ghost Walk is different from other ghost walks in the area. It’s a nighttime guided walking tour, where you’ll follow lantern-bearing guides down darkened streets of one of Rochester’s most interesting architectural neighborhoods. The guides will lead you to beautiful homes—and the “ghosts” will appear. Okay, maybe they are not ghosts, but tremendously talented actors in authentic period costumes. You will believe in them, as they bring to life events from our past—stories so dark, so gruesome, so amazing – you will have a hard time believing they are true. But they are! If you have attended Ghost Walk in the past, we need your help! Ghost Walk 2011 will feature the “greatest hits” from past years. Please let us know­—what ghosts would you like us to summon from the past for this year’s event? What stories are you dying to experience again, and share with unsuspecting friends? Visit our Facebook page and let us know what you’d like to see!

Ghost Walk tickets will be available online mid-September and at Parkleigh in October. Tickets in advance will be $15 ($12 for members) and $18 at the door—If available.

296 Sandringham Road • BRIGHTON

35 Vick Park A • ROCHESTER

809 Harvard St. • Rochester

One-acre lot; three wood burning fireplaces and superb room proportions for large-scale entertaining.

Nancy Wolcott, Associate Broker (585) 455-3428

Cherry cabinetry kitchen; Corian counters; cherry floors; Architect designed gazebo; charming gardens.

Norma Fennell, Associate Broker (585) 750-9134

Hardwoods; stained glass; wood burning fireplace; window seats; 2nd floor sun porch; walk-thru pantry.

Jeff Schuetz, Associate Broker (585) 233-8588

c. 1929 Architects Arnold and Stern

79 Atkinson St. • Corn Hill c. 1895 Queen Anne

Hand-painted ceilings; stained glass windows; tin ceiling; a turret with curved windows.

Barbara Galbraith, Associate Broker (585) 739-4809

c. 1875 Victorian residence

20 Hibbard Ave. • MANCHESTER/ CLIFTON SPRINGS c. 1890

Known as “A Peaceful Haven” Bed and Breakfast with two guest rooms; Beautiful woodwork.

Renata Reber, Associate Broker Mitchell Pierson, Jr., Inc. Realtors, (585) 586-6622

c. 1913 Charmer

2001 Salt Road • PENFIELD c. 1850

Completely renovated and updated on .75 acres.

2-bay 2-story barn with 2 workshops; garden house.

Tom Wood, Salesperson; (585) 317-3437 Roger Wilder, Associate Broker; (585) 746-600

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OUT: 435 State St.,

Rochester. This 1920s service station was one of the only known examples of an early domestic style service station, often referred to as a “house with canopy.” Constructed during the early years of the automobile, such stations were designed to resemble houses in order to create a sense of domesticity and familiarity for cautious customers. This service station featured a distinctive red clay tile roof, leaded glass transoms, and glazed white brick. It was demolished in March.

COURTESY OF OLD TOWN HALL PRESERVATION COMMITTEE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

TOO CLOSE TO CALL

TOO CLOSE TO CALL: Rochester’s historic windows, City of Rochester. The Rochester Preservation Board was to set a policy earlier this year regarding the replacement of historic windows in Preservation Districts and designated landmark properties. This policy was to further refine the 2003 Design Guidelines and specify when and where replacement windows may be appropriate and what materials may be appropriate for replacement windows. The Board has not yet taken any action to set a policy. The Landmark Society has advocated and will continue to advocate for a policy that encourages the repair and retention of historic windows except in the very rare instances when the windows are truly beyond repair.

TOO CLOSE TO CALL: Bethany Old Town Hall, Bethany, Genesee County. Built in 1832, the former Bethany Town Hall has been under-utilized for several years following the construction of new town offices. The Town of Bethany and a group of committed citizens are actively working to preserve this important piece of local history. The Landmark Society will be providing assistance to the community to help find a new use for the building.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

Lincoln Alliance Project LSWNY: What attracted you to the Lincoln Alliance Building project?

P

atrick Dutton is a young, energetic and dynamic real estate developer and broker who uses preservation as a core component to successful revitalization. Patrick understands the simultaneous role heritage plays in improving lives and celebrating past and he is proud to be the developer of the Capron Street Loft project in downtown Rochester. The project utilizes a creative reuse plan that is a model for communities large and small.

Patrick recently announced his involvement with one of the largest adaptive use projects in Rochester’s history, the historic Lincoln Alliance Building–one of the most significant historic buildings in our region. The Landmark Society (LSWNY) supports the project and has pledged assistance with tax credit consultation and postproject marketing.

The Landmark Society’s Executive Director, Wayne Goodman, had an opportunity to sit down with Patrick Dutton and discuss the Lincoln Alliance project.

LSWNY: Describe the development team for the Lincoln Alliance project?

Dutton: I have partnered with a company out of Syracuse called Franklin Properties who specializes in the redevelopment of historic buildings through the use of historic tax credits.

LSWNY: As you know, we have been working to make sure historic rehabilitation tax credits remain in place to facilitate preservation projects. Do you anticipate using tax credits for this upcoming project?

Dutton: Yes, we plan on using both New York State and Federal Historic Tax Credits. This project would not be possible without both of them. Your work to secure the future of these tax credits is vital.

Dutton: As a real estate developer and broker focused on Center City Rochester, I have developed an opinion of nearly every building in and around downtown Rochester. I always ask myself, “What is the highest and best use” for a building. Over the last several years the Lincoln Alliance Building, a Class B office building, has suffered by losing many of its office tenants. In my opinion, these are some of the best buildings to convert to a mixed-use environment consisting of retail, office, and primarily residential.

The building is absolutely beautiful and was designed by the turn of the century NYC based firm of McKim Mead and White. It lays out wonderfully for residential apartments and has excellent views from every floor. The Stone Street/South Avenue garage is located immediately across the street which will nicely accommodate the needs of all of the building’s occupants.

LSWNY: What is the proposed use of Lincoln Alliance?

Dutton: The building will contain street level retail and office space along with office space on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th floors for a total of approximately 40,000 sq.ft. of commercial space. Floors 5-14 will be converted to 113 market rate apartments consisting of 1 and 2 bedroom apartments.

LSWNY: A project of this size and scope does not come “cheap.”

What is the budget?

Dutton: The overall budget is $21.9 million – a significant investment.

LSWNY: What impact will the project have on Rochester and Center City?

Dutton: This part of Main Street is in desperate need of rehabilitation. Since the failure of Renaissance Square, this particular block is entirely without any direction. The conversion of the Lincoln Alliance Building will cement the long-term future of the corner of Main and Stone Street.

LSWNY: What is the project timeline?

Dutton: The project is slated to begin Summer/Fall of 2011 with completion in Spring 2013.

LSWNY: Out of curiosity, what initially drew you to preservation?

Dutton: I love the business of speculation. I have been drawn to the preservation of historic buildings in downtown Rochester for several reasons. Firstly, the restoration and redevelopment of these buildings is extremely meaningful work and time well spent. I believe my work is helping to change our physical environment for current and future generations to enjoy. Secondly, I believe there is a tremendous upside in the value of these downtown buildings.

From a speculation standpoint, this is very smart investing and I am a long term player.

LSWNY: Do you believe preservation stimulates economic development?

Dutton: Absolutely and without any doubt.

Anyone interested in talking further with Patrick is welcome to contact him at (585) 704-1546 or patrickdutton7@gmail.com.

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Our headquarters at the historic Hoyt-Potter House in Rochester

was recently the beneficiary of an outstanding project by high

school student Ian Campbell of Webster. Ian, who has been

involved in scouting since he was seven years old, is completing

the rigorous requirements of earning his Eagle Scout rank, the

highest advancement in Boy Scouting. Ian chose to make repairs

to Hoyt-Potter as his community project. Ian is the son of Mark

Campbell and Carole Lombard, a former employee of the Society.

Ian chose to make structural and cosmetic repairs the north

entrance. The ramp was reinforced with steel, deteriorated

boards were replaced, lattice panels were replaced and painted as

well as some trim pieces. The entire deck and steps were painted

with a special paint to provide durability and traction in inclement weather. Finally, a new sign was placed above the entrance door.

The end result is an incredible transformation to this very public entrance. Ian’s project totaled more than 250 hours and included fund raising for materials and cash donations. He was able to entice other volunteers to join his project, which enabled him to perform landscaping and parking lot improvements; work that was above and beyond the project’s original scope.

Ian believes historic buildings have a special place in our society. “I think historic buildings and architecture are important to our culture,” says Ian. The Landmark Society is extremely grateful to Ian for his work.

It is citizens like Ian, his work crew volunteers and the project’s donors that remind us all what the term “community” is all about.

We congratulate Ian and his achievement of “Eagle Scout.”

AFTER

BEFORE

We join Ian in thanking those contributors that made this project possible through the donation of materials: • Mark Credit, Harmco Fastener • Miller Brick Company • Julie St. Germaine, Signs Now Graphics • Michael Ksczanowicz Mayers Hardware • Dan O’Mara, Sherwin-Williams Paint • Jamie Pittinaro- New ceiling light • Doug Hull, Envoy Environmental Services, lead testing

Rochester City Living…Because That’s What It Is

By Caitlin Meives Preservation Planner

Explore Rochester’s diverse neighborhoods and communities. Search for the perfect house. Learn about the many recreational and cultural activities available in the city. Find ideas for fine and casual dining (and everything in between).

Discover the architecture and preservation successes that make Rochester a great place to live.

These are just a few of the things you can do at RochesterCityLiving.com. Rochester City Living (RCL) is a program of The Landmark Society. For our first several years, RCL operated the Home Room, a physical space at the Society’s headquarters.

With the Internet, the number of visitors to the Home Room dwindled, as the number of visits to RochesterCityLiving.com increased dramatically.

RochesterCityLiving.com is the only website that allows prospective homeowners to search for houses by neighborhood.

This is a convenient feature for those who know where they want to settle and are just biding their time, until the perfect house comes along.

Another great feature of the RCL program is the weekly “HomeWork” home-of-the-week column that appears in City newspaper. A dedicated cadre of volunteer writers, coordinators and editors has been organizing the column for over 12 years. The Landmark Society recently hosted a reception to recognize the tremendous efforts that all those involved have put in to the program. We would like to extend an extra special thank you to Padraic Collins-Bohrer, Lawrence Jones, Evan Lowenstein, Lisa Feinstein, Eric Bridle, Clarke Conde and City newspaper.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

SCout Gives Hoyt-Potter a facelift

CALENDAR

Children’s Event Museum Event Landmark Event Travelogue Event

Additional information and registration available at www.landmarksociety.org or (585) 546-7029 x11.

SEPTEMBER September 17 Annual Historic Maplewood Home Tour Tickets available in advance for $10 ($8 for senior citizens, $5 for groups of 10 or more) at Parkleigh, 215 Park Ave, The Peppermill Restaurant, 1776 Dewey Ave, and Dark Horse Coffee, 274 N. Goodman (Village Gate.)Tickets can also be reserved through phone by calling (585) 458-3460.

Leave your name, phone number, and number of tickets desired.

TIME: Tour, 11 AM–4 PM LOCATION: Lake Ave/Maplewood area September 23 & 24 Inside Downtown Tour The 8th annual tour of dynamic loft living, artfully designed homes, cultural centers and more will center in the fabulous East End neighborhood.

Added attraction this year: the premiere presentation of “Loft-a-rama!”

TIME: Friday: 5:30 PM–8:30 PM Saturday: 11 AM–4 PM LOCATION: Headquarters at Rochester

Contemporary Arts Center

OCTOBER

October Date TBA Preservation Boards/Commissions “Get-Together.”

Check our website for up to date details on this networking opportunity October 28 & 29 Ghost Walk ONE weekend only! Friday October 28 and Saturday October 29. Tickets in advance highly recommended to enjoy the Ghosts of Rochester’s Past!

TIME: Tours start at 6:30 PM LOCATION: Tour starts at Lutheran Church of

the Incarnate Word, 597 East Ave.

NOVEMBER November 8 & 15 Marketing Historic Houses Successfully – and More!

Imagine spending two full days on talks and bus tours learning about Rochester’s neighborhoods, architectural styles, historic house maintenance issues, landmark designation, and how to research a house’s history about Great for realtors, but open to anyone! Sponsored by Greater Rochester Association of Realtors.

TIME: 8 AM–5 PM LOCATION: Hoyt-Potter House, 133 S. Fitzhugh St. November 20 Historic Preservation Awards & Annual Meeting Enjoy a presentation honoring some of the area’s best examples of restoration and care of historic structures; chat with the award winners at the closing reception. All are welcome, free of charge.

TIME: 3:00 PM LOCATION: Academy of Medical Building, 1441 East Ave.

One World Goods Pittsford Plaza, 3349 Monroe Ave. Rochester (585) 387-0070

Fair Trade Oriental Rug Event October 6–9

Event hours: Thu, Fri & Sat 10–9, Sun 12–5 Intro to Oriental Rug Seminar Friday, October 7 @ 6:30 pm www.owgoods.org

rugs.tenthousandvillages.com

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LANDMARK SOCIETY

133 SOUTH FITZHUGH STREET ROCHESTER, NEW YORK 14608-2204

Non-Profit Organization PAID Rochester, NY Permit No. 1759

Executive Director Wayne Goodman Director of Public Programming Cindy Boyer Architectural Research Coordinator Cynthia Howk Director of Finance Carolyn Bick Preservation Planner Caitlin Meives Community Relations Associate Carolyn Haywood Membership Associate Norma Jean Hildreth Grants Administrator Maranne McDade Clay Horticulturist Beverly Gibson Museums & Education Associate Sharon Pratt Stone-Tolan Tour Guide Judith Trabert Landmarks Editor & Designer The Verdi Group, Inc.

An Award-winning Read...

The 185-year-old Erie Canal (completed in 1825) comes to spectacular new life in Erie Canal Legacy lavishly illustrated book. 101 cities, towns, villages, and hamlets are given individual attention with stunning color photographs by Andy Olenick and inspired anecdotal text by Richard O. Reisem. It’s a memorable visual and historic tour along 363 miles of the old Erie Canal. The book was awarded first prize as the best printed book in North America.

LANDMARK SOCIETY

Although the book retails for $49.95, The Landmark Society is pleased to offer this distinguished book at a reduced price of only $18.00! (shipping and tax included) Order your copy today by calling 585-546-7029 x10.