Landmarks Fall 2014 by The Landmark Society of Western New York

Landmarks

FALL 2014: VOLUME LII, NUMBER III

September 12-13

THE LANDMARK SOCIETY OF WESTERN NEW YORK

DISCOVER, PROTECT AND REVITALIZE

Landmarks FALL 2014

COVER: SIBLEY TOWER BUILDING (PHOTO COURTESY OF CINDY BOYER)

6 5

DOCTORS FIX IT!

FEATURE: INSIDE DOWNTOWN TOUR

NEWS

PRESERVATION SCORECARD

SCHOOL #58

TOP LEFT: FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S “FALLINGWATER” (PHOTO BY ROBERT P. RUSCHAK COURTESY OF THE WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA CONSERVANCY). TOP MIDDLE: FIRST CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH OF BRISTOL. TOP RIGHT: LIBERTY POLE SIBLEYS. BOTTOM LEFT: SENECA KNITTING MILL. BOTTOM RIGHT: SCHOOL #58, FORMERLY CHESTER DEWEY SCHOOL #14 (DRAWING BY MARK PAYTON).

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 with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York 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 info@landmarksociety.org.

The Landmark Society of Western New York is supported, in part, by the New York State Council on the Arts with the support of Governor Andrew Cuomo and the New York State Legislature.

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@Landmarksociety @landmarksociety

ANNOUNCING THE LANDMARK LEGACY SOCIETY The Landmark Society’s relationship with planned giving goes back to our organization’s founding in 1937. Many dedicated supporters named The Landmark Society in their wills, including our early founder Miss Helen Ellwanger, who provided a substantial gift of cash and real estate to assist in starting an endowment that we rely on today. Since then, gracious planned gifts of real estate, cash and other equities bolstered The Landmark Society’s endowment and provided essential and direct support to our work. It is worth noting that planned gifts come in all sizes, from large gifts of real estate to much more modest gifts. While large gifts formed the foundation of our endowment, it was a $10,000 planned gift that initiated the Preservation Grant Fund, which is, in a quite direct manner, helping to save buildings in desperate need. Last year we were gifted a historic 1836 cobblestone house. We made necessary repairs, protected the property with covenants according to the donor’s wish and sold the property to a preservation-minded new owner. We have been gifted real estate that is both historic and non-historic. Two years ago, we were the recipient of a donor’s only asset, a non-historic and quite modest home. Regardless of the gift type or size, the proceeds provide our organization with the support required to keep up with our communities’ needs. The level of appreciation for these gifts cannot be adequately conveyed. A planned gift is the most meaningful and humbling gift our organization receives – I am consistently moved and endeared to witness this kind of generosity.

BOARD OF TRUSTEES Executive Committee President Mary Znidarsic-Nicosia Vice Presidents

This year we announce the start of a new program, The Landmark Legacy Society. This Legacy Society will act as a way to promote and recognize those who have placed The Landmark Society in their estate planning. Of course, it is always the donor’s choice as to whether or not to remain anonymous. The Landmark Society believes, however, that we should offer special recognition to these quite special donors. Not only will the Legacy Society offer a chance for the organization to demonstrate our appreciation to our donors, but it also will promote the benefits of this type of philanthropy. More information about The Landmark Legacy Society is located on page 10.

Preservation

Thomas Castelein Properties

Mimi Freund Tilton Development

Beth Teall

Finance & Treasurer

Jeffrey J. Pollock Secretary Hugh A. Hamlin

As always I sincerely thank all of our members and supporters. This organization is built on the hard work and determination of past, present and future supporters, volunteers and staff. It is a formula that works. We greatly appreciate your dedication to The Landmark Society.

At Large JoAnn Beck Andrew A. Costanza Andy Germanow

Wayne Goodman Executive Director

HONORARY TRUSTEES

Anthony Bellomo Bleu Cease Scott Forsyth Jean R. France Sandra Frankel Katherine H. Karl Glenn Kellogg Jerry Ludwig Lee Lundback James I. Marasco Michael Mincher Bill Moehle Carol S. Mullin Louis P. Nau Edward J. Olinger Richard Sarkis William F. Sullivan Stacey VanDenburgh David Whitaker

All the best,

William Balderston John Bero A. Vincent Buzard Christopher Clarke John C. Clark III John W. Clarke Frank Crego Susan Crego Jean Czerkas Jim Durfee William Edwards Charlie Fitzgibbon George Gotcsik

Fran Gotcsik Judie Griffin Frank S. Grosso Thomas Hargrave Art Holtzman James Knauf, Jr. Marianne Koller Carol McAlister Sally McGucken Paul Nunes Andy Olenick Sherri Olenick Ann B. Parks

Richard Reisem Jon Schumacher Madeline Short Marion Simon John Thoman Joanne VanZandt Sterling Weaver Houghton D. Wetherald Henry W. Williams Jr. Arlene Wright Vanderlinde Mr. James Yarrington Mr. Craig Zicari FALL 2014

NEWS

The Landmark Society Hosts Indiana and Albion Summer Interns This summer’s Landmark Society interns had the opportunity to explore a wide variety of preservation projects and programs in our 9-county area. For the fifth consecutive year, The Landmark Society partnered with Bero Architecture, PLLC who sponsors the Bero-Howk Preservation Internship, a paid professional position for 10 weeks each summer. This internship selects a qualified college student to work under the guidance of staff members from both organizations to acquire further experience in the field of historic preservation, planning and design. This year’s Bero intern was Joshua Stowers, an Indiana native and graduate student at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. With a B.S. in architecture, he will complete dual Master’s degrees in architecture and historic preservation this coming year. This was Joshua’s first visit to western New York, where he discovered our distinctive architecture and worked on projects that included The Landmark Society’s protective covenant program and the “Historical Friction” online game for elementary students. Our second summer intern was Magenta Scott, a student at Bryant and Stratton College. An Albion native and former paralegal assistant, she recently completed her course work in graphic design. Magenta’s busy summer included her Landmark Society internship, an August wedding and subsequent move to Georgia, where she plans to establish her own design business.

Did you know membership dollars are a significant part of our operating budget? Please encourage friends and colleagues to join you in supporting the work we’re doing.

SUPPORTING MEMBERSHIP LEVELS Individual Senior $40

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Individual $45

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Government & Non-Profit $50

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Couples & Family $70

Member Benefits

• Free admission to the Stone-Tolan House and Ellwanger Garden (special events excluded) • Subscription to Landmarks Magazine • Reduced admission to ticketed events • Access to the Wenrich Memorial Library for assisted research (advance appointment required)

TO JOIN, RENEW OR INCREASE YOUR MEMBERSHIP PLEASE FILL OUT THIS FORM AND RETURN OR VISIT WWW.LANDMARKSOCIETY.ORG. Enclosed is payment for the amount of:

Name: Address:

City:

I am proud to be a

Zip:

level of membership this year.

Enclosed is my check payable to The Landmark Society. Please charge my:

VISA

DISCOVER

AMEX

$2000

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Card Number:

$500

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Phone #:

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$45

$40

2 FALL 2014

State:

Name on Card:

Exp. Date: CCV (Security code):

I would like more information on including The Landmark Society in my estate plans. My employer participates in a matching gift program. Enclosed is my signed form. I plan to waive my membership benefits and deduct the full amount allowed by law. Yes, please sign me up for Landmark Alerts e-newsletter. Email Address

Save the Date!

NEWS

The Landmark Society Annual Preservation Awards on November 9 Please mark your calendars for Sunday, November 9 at 3:00 p.m. for The Landmark Society’s Annual Awards event, which will again be in the elegant surroundings of Rochester’s historic City Hall at 30 Church Street. The Awards Ceremony will be held in the restored City Council Chambers on the third floor. A reception in the soaring space of the Romanesque Revival atrium will follow. Please join us for this memorable event, as we honor the individuals, municipalities and organizations from our 9-county region that have completed outstanding preservation projects in western New York. www.landmarksociety.org

NEW YORK STATE OFFERS TAX CREDITS FOR HISTORIC HOUSE REHABILITATION One of the most exciting preservation programs in recent years is New York State’s homeowner’s tax credit for the rehabilitation of historic houses listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Owner-occupied houses listed in the Register and located in qualifying census tracts are eligible for this program, which requires owners to spend a minimum of $5,000 for rehabilitation projects. Qualifying projects include roofs, windows, walls, masonry, floors, ceilings, finishes (exterior, interior), chimneys, doors and utilities (heating, plumbing, electrical, air conditioning). Work is reviewed by State Preservation Office staff, using the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. At the conclusion of the rehabilitation, the owner will receive a tax credit for 20% of the qualifying costs. Eligible houses include properties in several Rochester National Register districts (Maplewood, South Wedge, Browncroft, and a portion of East Avenue), as well as residences in Genesee, Ontario, Livingston, Seneca, Wyoming, Wayne and Yates counties. For a complete list of qualifying properties, census tracts and program details, go to www.nyparks.com/shpo/ tax-credit-programs/ or call program coordinator, Sloane Bullough at (518) 237-8643 ext. 3252.

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Classics on the Hill

A Weekend Celebration of the Automobile Held in conjunction with Classics on the Hill Auto Show at Oak Hill Country Club

A Fabulous Cocktail Party and Amazing Automobiles. First Time Fundraising Event that Highlights Garage Architecture and Vintage Cars. Tickets: $125.00

Houses in Rochester’s Maplewood Historic District have been renovated using the NYS Historic Homeowner’s Tax Credit Rehabilitation program.

TO ORDER TICKETS CALL

Carolyn Haygood at 585.546.7029 x11 FALL 2014

NEWS What will your Ghost Walk Experience be like?

COMING SOON

Will you shudder at the ghastly events in our past? Will laughter burst from your lips at the “you can’t make this stuff up” unbelievable true incidents? Will your heart be touched by empathy with the experiences of the former Rochesterians, who’ve returned from the grave just for you? And will you remember to look up and look around at the fantastic architectural collection of homes on the street where Ghost Walk spirits tread among us? We’re willing to bet the answer is “yes” to all of the above! The Landmark Society’s Ghost Walk enters its 21st year of conducting people through a theatrical performance walking tour. Join us for the ideal combination of history, architectural wonders and a fun outdoor theater experience. One weekend only, don’t miss out! The Landmark Society’s Ghost Walk Friday night October 24th and Saturday night October 25th. Tours start at Lutheran Church of the Incarnate Word, corner of East Avenue and Goodman Street. Advance tickets recommended, group tour reservation times available. Ghost Walk tickets will be available online at www.landmarksociety.org on September 15th and at Parkleigh and The Landmark Society on October 1st. Advance tickets are $18. Landmark members may purchase $12 advance tickets from The Landmark Society only, online or by phone at (585)546-7029 x11. If tickets are available the day of the event, they will be $20 at the door for all.

a preservation coloring book!

the littlest preservationist Designed and illustrated by Lyndsey Galasso

Special thanks to the Historic Preservation, Restoration, and Literature fund of Rochester Area Community Foundation for their support.

44th Annual House and Garden Tour AMAZINGLY BEAUTIFUL

Were you among the many folks who enjoyed the House and Garden Tour in the beautiful Mt. Hope and Highland historic neighborhood in June? If so, we thank you for being part of a record-setting tour, with over 2,000 attending. Thank you so much to the homeowners who graciously invited us in and to our sponsors, especially our Platinum Sponsors: UBS Financial Services and Bergmann Associates, our Silver Sponsor Pike Stained Glass Studios and our Copper Sponsor Headz Up Hats.

FALL 2014

NEWS

Do we

preservation?

! P YU

by Caitlin Meives

In our last issue of Landmarks, we announced the launch of our new affiliate group, the Young Urban Preservationists (A.K.A. the YUPs). Well, we YUPs have been busy this spring/summer, planning offbeat events and getting to know each other. We held our kickoff event in March at Black Button Distilling. In May, over 40 fellow YUPs joined us for a special behind-the-scenes tour of the Sibley Building and the launch of our WHERE THE #&@% AM I? coaster program at Abilene Bar & Lounge. It was exciting to see the coasters out in the real world after our QR code stamping party. In July, we hosted Rochester’s first bike scavenger hunt (at least that we know of!)—Bikes Beer & Buildings. Participating YUPs went snap happy with great shots of the ROC, sharing them on Instagram as they solved clues throughout the city (check them out by searching #yuproc). But we’re not only about fun and games. As a group of dedicated ROCaholics (and western New Yorkers) interested in community revitalization, we’ll be gathering forces to staff one of the sites on our 2014 Inside Downtown Tour; we’ll be adding more historic bars and pubs to the WHERE THE #&@% AM I? coaster program, and of course, we’ll be getting involved in preservation projects throughout the region.

PHOTO BY ROBERT P. RUSCHAK COURTESY OF THE WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA CONSERVANCY

This is just the beginning of the YUPs and we’re so excited for future events and projects! Now that you’re just as excited be sure to join our email list and follow us on Facebook: www.landmarksociety.org/yup www.facebook.com/youngurbanpreservationists

SAVE THE DATE! Pittsburgh, “Fallingwater” and “Kentuck Knob” in Fall 2015 Plan ahead for next year’s extended motorcoach trip! Mark your calendar for this 4-day, 3-night trip taking place September 17 – 20, 2015. This time we’re heading to historic Pittsburgh and Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Fallingwater” and “Kentuck Knob”—all in one magnificent tour. Two of Wright’s most important houses will be our destination for a day’s drive to the picturesque rolling hills south of the city. In Pittsburgh, we’ll find out why the city has become a hotbed of preservation activity and explore the city’s German heritage with a visit to a historic brewery. We’ll also have a special evening at the Pittsburgh Symphony. You’ll enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Heinz Hall, the restored movie palace adapted as the Symphony’s home, as well as attend their opening season concert. There will be other selected experiences to round out our visit to this remarkable city. Look for more details in the next issue of Landmarks or subscribe to our eNewsletter (at www.landmarksociety.org) to be among the first to get the latest news.

FALL 2014

Doctors Fix It! These doctors have a prescription for preservation by Wayne Goodman, Executive Director Mary Nicosia, Board President When Rochester plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Evangelisti saw the First Congregational Church of Bristol, he was intrigued. “Twelve years ago I was driving to Bristol Mountain to go skiing. I saw the church was for sale. It needed some help, so I bought it and have made it my project,” says Dr. Evangelisti. “I love fixing old things.” In addition to his interest in architecture and preservation, Dr. Evangelisti also loves to restore classic cars. “I simply like great, old design,” he remarks. One of the oldest surviving structures in the area, the current church building on Bristol Valley Road replaced an earlier log structure on the site, which was constructed in 1795 and served as the original First Congregational Church. Plans to build a new church were initiated in 1810, with construction complete in 1812. It was last used for church services in 1955. At the time Dr. Evangelisti purchased the property twelve years ago, the church building was only being used for general storage by a private owner. It required substantial work to even stabilize the structure. Since acquiring the building Dr. Evangelisti has personally restored the windows, installed a new roof, replaced siding where needed, painted much of the exterior, repaired interior walls and is in the process of replicating missing pieces of interior window trim. Historic modifications, some made prior to the Civil War, are still clearly visible and will be preserved. When asked what the end use might be, Dr. Evangelisti responds that he is not sure. The first floor currently houses a woodworking studio. One idea is to convert the second floor into artist studio space, given the benefit of natural light afforded by the large windows. In the end, however, Dr. Evangelisti is simply happy working to save an amazing historic structure and enjoying the process. “I just think we should be able to look at attractive buildings,” he says.

Another doctor with a propensity for fixing, Dr. Kathy Parker, came to Rochester as a PhD from Emory University in Atlanta, where she served as Professor of Nursing. Before retiring she served as Dean of the School of Nursing at the University of Rochester. She and her husband, Louis Parker, purchased the Eisenhart House, located on East Avenue in Rochester. “I was immediately drawn to it as soon as I crossed the threshold!” says Dr. Parker. “It seemed to embrace me with a sense of connection to Rochester and its history.” The location of the house, with its close proximity to downtown and shops was a plus, but, she adds, “It was the house that won my heart.” The Eisenhart House is a 6,800 square foot historic house designed by architect Leon Stern and built in 1912. It was originally owned by Samuel Weil, but was the home to Martin “Herbert” and Elsa Eisenhart from 1923 to 1975. Mr. Eisenhart was employed by the Eastman Kodak Company but later accepted a position as production manager at Bausch & Lomb and eventually became its President and Chairman of the Board. He also served as Chairman of the Board of both the University of Rochester and the Rochester Institute of Technology. Mr. Eisenhart was active in the community, known for his service and his philanthropy. By 2008, the Eisenhart House needed a new steward to make necessary repairs and updates. The Parkers undertook an extensive renovation that included interior and exterior paint, gutters and hardwood floor refinishing. Additionally, damaged doors and windows were restored, the grand staircase in the entrance hall was restored and the kitchen was updated with an eye on modernity, while still maintaining its original historic charm. Extensive renovation was also required for the four upstairs bedrooms and baths. The Parkers found the Aeolian organ console in the attic and had it repaired and reinstalled. While functional, the organ’s restoration is not fully complete, a task the Parkers look forward to completing in the future. Dr. Parker remarks that their biggest surprises were found in the attic where, in addition to the organ console, were over 100 organ music rolls and a 3-dimensional architectural rendering of the Eisenhart Auditorium, which was built next to the Rochester Museum and Science Center. The Parkers are now enthusiastic preservationists. Dr. Parker notes, “It is nearly impossible to live in Rochester’s Preservation Districts and not be smitten by the city’s history, elegance and architecture. Being stewards of the Eisenhart House helps us feel part of this and that we are contributors to this great legacy.”

When plastic surgeon Dr. Stephen Evangelisti noticed that the First Congregational Church of Bristol was in need of repair, he bought it and gave it a much-needed facelift. 6 FALL 2014

When in 2008 the Eisenhart House had an uncertain prognosis, it was purchased by the healing hands of Dr. Kathy Parker and her husband Louis.

Another structure with a proud public legacy is Batavia’s Washington Avenue School. The school was built in 1903 and served elementary students until 1956. In 1963 the building was converted to house the Board of Education offices until 2012, when the building was purchased by Rochester ophthalmologist, Dr. Ronald Reed. The building is a semi-fireproof design, with a poured concrete central core. The front entrance is anchored by a well-designed historic portico, which is supported by four columns. The school’s exterior boasts a combination of Medina sandstone on the first level, with the remaining two levels clad in blond and red brick. Originally from New York City, Dr. Reed has lived most of his life in Rochester and embraces regional heritage. “The Medina sandstone is a great feature of the building. It speaks so well to the history and tradition of western New York,” says Dr. Reed.

Historic view of Washington Avenue School in Batavia. Dr. Reed viewed the vacant structure as an opportunity to not only save a historic building, but to utilize it as the new Batavia location of Reed Eye Associates, which will occupy 7,000 square feet on the top floor. Additional medical specialties are considering space on the first level. The building, with its new use, is slated to open in the summer of 2014. “I simply have a great love of old buildings”, says Dr. Reed. “In addition this building has a great location in the center of town, sitting on two acres across the street from Austin Park.” After purchasing the building, Dr. Reed immediately began rehabilitation. “A design of eight classrooms did not lend itself to a new life as a medical building”, says Dr. Reed. “The internal skeleton has brick walls 3 feet thick, and several of them needed pass-throughs cut in them.” The central core of the building remained in place, including hallways, staircases, the front entrance and the Palladian windows. One of the unique challenges of this adaptive use project has been converting a historic building designed for a single use into a multi-tenant building. Also, as with many adaptive use projects, bringing the building up to both building code compliance and ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliance has required creative design and construction solutions. While the school building is undergoing a renaissance, echoes of the past still resonate. During construction, a handwritten note, written and signed by the school’s janitor in 1939, was found inside a glass bottle. Original exterior details add to its history. “The stone steps bear the wear of thousands of feet”, says Dr. Reed. “This building is not only a pile of stones and bricks, it is a piece of the community. If you were to raze this building, it would be the death of the physical past of all the Batavia citizens who walked through

the doors, climbed that grand staircase and were educated in those classrooms.” These doctors have a knack for fixing more than people. Their projects demonstrate that collective heritage can be embraced, fulfilling a multitude of motives. Buildings can be flexible, and these doctors show how our historic buildings can serve a new generation.

Once ophthalmologist Dr. Ronald Reed completes rehabilitation, the interior stairs of the historic Washington Avenue School in Batavia will be more pleasing to the eye. FALL 2014

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

September 12 & 13, 2014 Winn Development proudly sponsors The Landmark Society of Western New York’s

East Avenue and Main, View from the Top!

The Inside Downtown Tour

opens up urban environments where folks are creating exciting spaces to live and work. We visit re-purposed spaces, renovated homes, lovingly preserved places and newly built sites that are designed with sensitivity to the overall built environment. Basically, we get you “in” on the latest urban living trends.

New Dates! This year’s tour will be earlier than past years: Friday, September 12 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Saturday, September 13 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. You’ll have a little bit more twilight to enjoy the Friday evening tour.

Tour Neighborhood. Why are we calling it “View from the Top?” There are an extraordinary number of penthouses opening for us, plus the view from the top of One East Avenue is unequaled at any other site. Some of the sites include:

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“The finest residential hotel in the world” is how the Sagamore Hotel was described in a 1925 postcard. That’s the building you may know as East Avenue Commons. When you see the penthouses in the Residences at 111 on East, you’ll know that the historic building’s grandeur has been restored. This might also be the only downtown residence with a rooftop swimming pool and fire pit.

• A meeting

spot for Rochesterians for generations, Sibley’s Department Store was, simply put, the center of downtown for almost the entire 20th century. We shopped, ate, drank and celebrated at the venerable department store. You’ll see the progress and plans that are underway in this landmark’s rehabilitation. Visit the tearoom and the private dining area, as well as restored offices in the Sibley Tower building. Weather depending, you may actually get a closeup look at the clock tower, with a visit to the roof!

Get a pre-restoration peek at the Sibley tearoom and private dining area. FALL 2014

• A religious site with a quite unique way of supporting

their congregation. Did you ever wonder how the Temple Building got its name? It was built by an enterprising

congregation as a way to support the Second Baptist Church’s temple on the first floor with the rental revenues from the office tower. After decades as an office building, the structure now houses 1- and 2-story loft apartments, as well as luxurious penthouse apartments.

• The Penthouse at One East Avenue. You may remember the building as the Security Trust Bank, right at the corner of East and East Main. A fantastic Mid-Century Modern design, the top floor has been renovated to serve as a party and meeting spot. What will wow you? The incredible views from ceiling to floor windows and a wrap around balcony. On a clear day, you’ll see Lake Ontario. On pretty much any day you will get a view of Rochester’s amazing architectural detail in every direction.

on September 1st. Advance tickets are $22. Landmark members may purchase $18 advance tickets from The Landmark Society only, online or by phone at (585) 546-7029 x11. If tickets are available the days of the Tour, they will be $25 for all, at tour headquarters, The Rochester Contemporary Art Center, 137 East Ave. Last year’s tour was a sell-out!

What Happens Next:

There’s more to come as we continue to partner with residents and building owners.

We’ll be announcing additional stops and social events connected to the tour as the date approaches. If you haven’t signed up for our eNewsletter, that’s the best way to get the latest information on the tour. Just go to landmarksociety.org and scroll down on the first page to subscribe. Then you’ll have the best information on how to get “in” on the Inside Downtown Tour.

Tour and Ticket Details: Your tour

Thank you to our Sponsors

ticket will be good both Friday evening September 12th and Saturday during the day of September 13th. You may visit each tour stop one time, in any order that you desire. On Friday night we’ll have the friendly “Rochester Red Shirts” retired law enforcement officers to greet you and guide you. Inside Downtown Tour tickets will be available online at www.landmarksociety.org on August 15th and at The Landmark Society and Parkleigh

(as of July 2014)

Title Sponsor: Winn Development Platinum Sponsors: Bergmann Associates, One East Avenue, Morgan Management, Rochester Colonial, Gallina Development Silver Sponsor: Pike Stained Glass Copper Sponsors: Law offices of Pullano and Farrow; Gilded Square Beverage Sponsor: Underberg and Kessler FALL 2014

Planned Giving is Not Just for the Wealthy INTRODUCING THE LANDMARK LEGACY SOCIETY The Landmark Society of Western New York has a history of committed planned gifts, beginning with our founding in 1937. Planned gifts have provided the bedrock of an endowment that is crucial in funding our operations to this day. Having just celebrated our 75th year as a preservation organization, The Landmark Society has recently chartered the Landmark Legacy Society to recognize those thoughtful individuals who have included us in their estate plans in the past, as well as those who are committing to do so today.

be pleased to list your name among our Landmark Legacy Society members and invite you to an annual social gathering solely for members of this select group. We will be mailing members our new planned giving brochure and also have copies available at our office if you would like to call us and request a brochure. Thank you, in advance, for your thoughtful contribution and your interest in continuing our important preservation work for years to come.

The Landmark Society is extremely grateful for every gift that it receives regardless of the contribution’s size. Planned gifts in the form of monetary bequests or real estate are welcomed by the organization. Historic properties that are gifted to us are oftentimes sold after protective covenants are placed on the property, ensuring that our community work is funded and that the historic property is protected. If you own such a property or are helping a loved one, friend or client with this process, we encourage you to call us directly to discuss your wishes and the details of the gift. Our staff would very much appreciate knowing about your intentions in advance so that we can better prepare to receive such a bequest. Your intention can be kept anonymous if you wish. If you are interested in becoming a member of the Landmark Legacy Society, we only ask that you send us your intention in writing and include your current contact information. We would

Cobblestone home bequeathed to The Landmark Society.

PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID HUTCHINGS, DIRECTOR OF SONNENBERG GARDENS AND VALERIE O’HARA, PIKE STAINED GLASS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS! The Landmark Society Annual Jubilee - “The Art of Preservation” The Landmark Society invites you to its annual Jubilee Celebration, “The Art of Preservation!” This special celebratory event closes out the organization’s year with a time of reflection; highlighting new initiatives on the horizon and paving the way for future success. Come and experience an evening of celebration, live entertainment, silent auction and live Fine Arts expression at the Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester, Rochester’s civic art museum. You’ll enjoy: • Live Musical Entertainment • Silent Auction experiences up for bid • Fresh fine art for the auction, created right before your eyes in live art performances • Special Wenrich Collection exhibition • Complimentary Gallery tour • Complimentary beer, wine and delicious hors d’oeuvres. Tickets go on sale online October 1st, only $30 for members, $40 for non-members to the most exciting, fun event on the fall calendar. Tickets will not be sold at the door, advance ticket sales only! Visit www.landmarksociety.org for more information late September.

THE ART OF PRESERVATION JUBILEE!

Sunday, November 23rd 5-8 pm Memorial Art Gallery of the University of Rochester 500 University Avenue

FALL 2014

About the stained glass window: A fine example of “Art of Preservation” at work is the beautiful “Abundance” window designed and made by Pike Stained Glass Studios in 1911, and is the oldest window the studio has a record of in their archives. (The studio was founded in 1908, but there was a fire in 1938 and some records were lost). The window was commissioned by Edward Hayes, President of the County National Bank of Canandaigua, for the main bank room. When the bank merged with Lincoln First Bank in 1962, the window was placed in storage. Around 1979, the window was donated to the Sonnenberg Gardens by Lincoln First Bank for the Wine Center’s Tasting Room.

STATEWIDE PRESERVATION CONFERENCE A _______! by Caitlin Meives

In the spirit of our conference title: FILL IN THE BLANK. Defining Preservation, we’ll let you fill in the blank – Statewide conference a blast!; a breath of fresh air!; a great learning experience!; a bore (we hope not!). In our estimation it would read: Statewide conference a roaring success! Nearly 250 folks from across upstate New York joined us and our Conference partners, the Preservation League of New York State, Preservation Buffalo Niagara, and AIA Rochester to help fill in the blank at our annual Preservation Conference, the first New York Statewide Preservation Conference to be held in over a dozen years. Held at the historic Little Theatre, we had great presenters, great topics, generous sponsors, and enthusiastic attendees. Like any preservation success story, the people and the place combined to create a dynamic atmosphere, full of new ideas, thoughtful debate, and even a few provocative calls to action. From sneaky preservation to rust belt revitalization; opera houses to education; urban neighborhoods to small towns—we covered it all. The range of topics demonstrated the many benefits of preservation and the diverse audiences and communities it can serve. It was truly an honor to have Donovan Rypkema as our keynote speaker and Ed McMahon as our Saturday Breakfast Speaker. If you consider yourself a preservationist, a planner, a community advocate and you haven’t heard

what they have to say, I encourage you to start Googling. If nothing else, you’ll be entertained. Thank you to all of the speakers, vendors and attendees who spent time with us for the 2014 Preservation Conference! Our enormous gratitude to our Title Sponsors, Rochester Colonial and Bergmann Associates, the generous support provided by The Rochester Area Community Foundation and Daisy Marquis Jones Foundation, as well as all of the additional conference sponsors. Without the support of all of these businesses and organizations this incredible event could not happen. Stay tuned to our social media—we’ll be announcing the 2015 Conference location soon!

Larry Francer, Associate Director of Preservation, with our interactive name tag

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FALL 2014

Preservation

SCORECARD

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

SAFE

SENECA KNITTING MILL, SENECA FALLS: A ribbon cutting was held in May to mark the beginning of the rehabilitation of the former Seneca Knitting Mill into the new home of the National Women’s Hall of Fame. The long-vacant, 1844 mill building will be adapted into a new facility that will house the Hall and its Center for Great Women. The $25 million project has received over $5 million in matching federal and state grants, which includes $2.5 million from the New York Empire State Development Corporation (Restore New York), two grants from the New York State Parks department, the federal Save America’s Treasures grant and two grants totaling $650,000 from the Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council.

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TOO CLOSE TO CALL TOO CLOSE TO CALL: BRENTWOOD CAMP BRIDGE,

ALLEGANY COUNTY: This single lane metal truss bridge spans Angelica Creek in Allegany County. It was constructed in 1930 and is an example of a Pratt through truss. Current plans call for the removal of the bridge, however Allegany County will consider donating the bridge to an interested party who can relocate it to a new location. The bridge is in good condition.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE LANDMARK SOCIETY

TOO CLOSE TO CALL: 660 WEST MAIN ST., ROCHESTER: This c.1870 church building and former German social club was last featured in the Summer 2012 issue of Landmarks when the owner was proposing to demolish it to make way for a sideways strip mall that would house a Dollar General Store. Strong opposition from The Landmark Society and various city neighborhood groups resulted in a temporary stay of execution—the building is protected from demolition under the City of Rochester’s Zoning Code as a “Designated Building of Historic Value” (DBHV). In November, 2012, the Zoning Board of Appeals denied the owner’s request for a variance to allow demolition of a DBHV. The ownerThe is again2013 requesting permission to demolish the protected building. Current plans call for a larger Five store footprint, lacking a design that fits withinto the context of the Revive are neighborhood and the importance of the West Main corridor as the gateway to downtown Rochester. 12

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Member Profile: LAURA MOORE SMITH by Larry Francer, Associate Director of Preservation

A lawyer, preservationist, environmentalist, historian and YUP co-founder, Laura’s first words to me when we met for this interview were, “I hope you can make me sound more interesting than I really am.” Raised right here in Pittsford, Laura went to the College of Wooster in Ohio, became a professional historian and had a great job in her field in Washington, D.C. Yet she chose to go to law school for a number of reasons. One very important reason was her desire to get back to Rochester, and she is thrilled to have a job in her field as an associate at Harter Secrest & Emery LLP. Like many in our Young Urban Preservationist (YUP) group, Laura loves Rochester and wants to be part of its transformation into the “next coolest place to live and raise a family.” She is passionate, creative, funny and bright. Laura Moore Smith is much more interesting than she thinks! YUP, she is! Your interest in preservation started very young, didn’t it? I was interested in history and preservation since before I can remember—I even attended The Landmark Society’s Pioneer Camp at the Stone-Tolan House for two summers. From pretending I was Laura Ingalls Wilder in my dress-up games to visiting historic sites as a young adult, I always knew that I wanted to do something that involved history and historic buildings. Tell me about your job and life in our nation’s capital. I worked for a history consulting firm, History Associates, Inc., for three years after graduating from the College of Wooster. My focus was on researching former industrial sites to identify additional potentially responsible parties for historical contamination, developing museum content for new museums and exhibits (including a trip to Belfast for an exhibit on Northern Ireland and the Titanic!) and conducting research for non-fiction books and documentaries. I really enjoyed learning the ins and outs of the National Archives and Library of Congress and had the opportunity to travel to various repositories across the country. Why did you decide to go to law school? While I loved working as a professional historian, I was ready to leave DC and wanted a career that allowed more mobility. After some reflection, I realized that environmental law and brownfield redevelopment incorporated many of the aspects I liked about my job. I originally wanted to go to Boston University because it offered a joint JD/ MA in historic preservation, which I thought would be a perfect path to understand both the legal and preservation

Laura and her husband Merritt

sides of redevelopment. After I was accepted to the University of Pennsylvania Law School, however, it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up! Penn offered a wide range of environmental law classes and even offered a class in cultural heritage law, so I was still able to pursue my interests at Penn even though I did not go down a more traditional historic preservation path. Why would young professionals choose to join YUP? Historic preservation encompasses so many issues that are important to many young professionals right now— conservation of natural resources and spaces, revitalization, making neighborhoods walkable and bikeable, celebrating the unique heritage and culture of individual communities, etc. A lot of the young professionals I meet in Rochester are either from the area and returned because they wanted to invest themselves in the community, or they are transplants from another place and are actively trying to make Rochester their home. YUP offers both types of young professionals the chance to get involved in a community-centered group, as well as a unique opportunity to plan events and bring up issues they are passionate about. Whether it is setting up a bike scavenger hunt to raise awareness of Rochester’s hidden treasures or putting a new twist on an established Landmark Society event, YUP is a great venue to explore new ideas of what historic preservation means and what it can do for our community. One final question – Where did you have your wedding pictures taken? Stone-Tolan House. So I guess I was destined to be involved with The Landmark Society. And I am just so happy to be a part of this organization, which is truly an indispensable asset to the community. FALL 2014

ince it was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1986, the federal Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit has proven to be an economic engine for communities across the nation. In fact, it has been so successful that many states, including New York, have passed similar tax credit incentives at the state level, clearly understanding the need to compete for preservation investment. The federal tax credit is vital in allowing for the successful completion of preservation projects, and remains today one of the few federal programs that actually produces a net gain in federal revenues. It is unfortunate, however, that recent discussions in Washington regarding tax reform have included this preservation incentive as a possible program to eliminate. While we recognize the need for fiscal responsibility, The Landmark Society asks that the program truly be evaluated on its own history and merit. We believe that such an evaluation will lead to an undeniable link between the tax credit program and economic growth. While it may seem to be counterintuitive, numerous economic studies have determined that the federal tax credit program’s economic yield far outweighs its cost in tax relief for qualified projects. These specific preservation projects leverage considerable investment, solidify construction jobs, place vacant buildings back onto the tax rolls and oftentimes spawn new, smaller businesses that offer new job opportunities – all activities that produce tax revenues. It has been shown that such projects raise property values in their respective districts or neighborhoods, thus creating a situation in which other nearby properties become economically viable for private-sector investment. The National Trust for Historic Preservation recently announced the inclusion of the federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit program on its annual “watch list” of the 2014 14

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Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit To make the project feasible, the Rochester Free Academy needed to utilize the Federal Rehabilitation Tax Credit. The Free Academy now houses residential units, as well as commercial uses.

Most Endangered list. The Landmark Society joins The National Trust and our statewide preservation partner, The Preservation League of New York State, in advocating for bipartisan action to maintain a program that has a long history of facilitating the economic linkage between heritage and economic development.

Writers & Landmarks: Personal and Pithy. SCHOOL #58 the dream I am standing on the threshold in the cold, looking up at the great colonnaded loggia, fear and expectation rumbling in my belly. In the dream I am floating through the grand corridors, touching the dark wooden moldings, peering into empty classrooms, feeling the coolness of the airy gymnasium and the dank stench of the drained pool where we played, danced, and cried. In the dream I am searching for the lost bits of myself, longing for some answer to the riddle of childhood, hoping that this noble and timeless building can reveal the essence of who I am and where I grew up. World of Inquiry, School #58, formerly Chester Dewey School #14, was built in 1915 as the City Normal School, an elementary school for the purpose of training teachers. A model of civic construction, the building was designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, with large hallways, plaster crown moldings, bay windows, and special rooms for a library, museum, and kindergarten. It was meant to serve a total of 1,250 students and 50 teachers, according to the 1916 Circular of Information. In this glossy brochure touting the school’s progressive teaching methods, the newly-built school gleams with promise and conveys a mood of civilizing pride. When I entered the school in 1980, its former grandeur was frayed by years of use, change, and patchwork renovations. The building had been partitioned into two elementary schools, #14 for the neighborhood population, and #58 as an experimental magnet school. The once-elegant location on University Avenue now felt precarious, as the school perched on the ledge of the Inner Loop,

DRAWINGS COURTESY OF MARK PAYTON

By Jennifer Kellogg

next to a Kentucky Fried Chicken with bulletproof windows and across the street from National Ambulance, where as visiting children we saw dry ice containers for severed limbs.

Yet within the school, we were surrounded by the love, concern, and good intentions of our teachers and administrators. For decades, those of us who were lucky enough to win the admission lottery enjoyed the benefits of an extraordinary educational environment. #58, or World of Inquiry, was founded on the legacy of the riots of 1964, the civil rights movement, and integration. Rochester’s progressive history as well as our nation’s legacy of slavery and inequality were always a part of our curriculum. The school’s educational principles are learning by doing, encouraging children’s naturally inquisitive tendencies, and emphasizing critical thinking and problem solving. From the woodshop to the pottery kiln to our classrooms and field trips, we were encouraged to develop our best selves. Within the dignified façade of the brown brick-clad school, within its open hallways and well-appointed classrooms, we grew up and dreamt about our futures. Now this building speaks to me in its dream language about my past, bound up with my city’s past, bound up too with its hopedfor future. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places, the City Normal School is being fully renovated to accommodate World of Inquiry’s transition to a K-12 facility. Our city’s hopes are once again embodied in the lives of the children who will soon walk the halls of this renewed model building of progress and education. Jennifer Kellogg is an avid supporter of The Landmark Society who believes that our city’s heritage is our future. FALL 2014

CALENDAR For additional and up to date information on all of our events, visit www.landmarksociety.org or subscribe to our 3 times a month e-newsletter at the same location.

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER 12 & 13 Inside Downtown Tour See page 8 for full details! SEPTEMBER 19, 20 & 21 Cocktails & Carburetors plus Classics on the Hill - Event & Reception See page 3 for full details!

OCTOBER OCTOBER 18 19th Ward Annual House Tour One of Rochester’s most historic neighborhoods will highlight their rich and diverse architecture on this annual tour. Tour headquarters: St. Monica’s Catholic Church, 831 Genesee Street. Time: 11:00 am – 3:00 p.m. For tickets & tour information, go to www.19wca.org OCTOBER 20 Slide talk, “Discover Walworth : 200 Years of Historic Architecture” Cynthia Howk will present this slide talk as the kick-off to National Register of Historic Places projects in this Wayne County town. Sponsor: Town of Walworth & Walworth United Methodist Church. 7:30 p.m. LOCATION: Walworth United Methodist Church, 3679 Main St. (off Route 441), Walworth, NY. The talk is free and open to the public. For information, call (585) 546-7029 ext. 24 OCTOBER 24 & 25 Ghost Walk 21st Anniversary Tour Fly to page 4 for scary details!

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OCTOBER 25 Guided Walking Tour of East Avenue/Stone-Tolan House Neighborhood Cynthia Howk will lead this walk sponsored by the Town of Brighton as part of its 2014 Bicentennial events. The 19th and 20th-century history and architecture of this signature neighborhood will be highlighted. Time: 10 am – 12 noon Location: Stone-Tolan House Historic Site, 2370 East Ave., Brighton. Free of charge; for more information, call (585) 546-7029 ext. 24

NOVEMBER NOVEMBER DATE TBA Preservation Partners Round-Up A get-together of local supporters from communities throughout our region to meet and discuss current preservation issues, opportunities & challenges. Check our website for details on this networking and educational opportunity. NOVEMBER 9 Historic Preservation Awards Ceremony and Reception TIME: 3:00 p.m. LOCATION: Rochester City Hall, 30 Church Street All are welcome. Free of charge. See page 3 for full details. NOVEMBER 23 Annual Jubilee “The Art of Preservation” Celebration TIME: 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. LOCATION: Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Ave., Rochester Tickets: $40.00 ($30.00/members) See page 10 for full details.

Something Old Something New

Places You Will Always Remember A Day You Will Never Forget We look forward to the opportunity to work with you on your special day! Call us for more information:

585-325-5010 3 8 4 EA S T A V EN U E R O C H ES TE R , N Y 1 4 6 0 7

WeddingsAtChapelHill.com

Ballroom384.com

EastAveInn.com

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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 Programs Cindy Boyer Associate Director of Preservation Larry Francer Horticulturist Beverly Gibson Community Relations Associate Carolyn Haygood Membership Associate Norma Jean Hildreth Architectural Research Coordinator Cynthia Howk Director of Finance Andrew Lambrix Office and IT Associate Anika Lindquist Preservation Planner Caitlin Meives Education Associate Sharon Pratt Stone-Tolan Tour Guide Judith Trabert Landmarks Editor & Designer The Verdi Group, Inc.

Learn more about this community project at

where.landmarksociety.org