The Preservation League of NYS and their program partners at the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) are thrilled to announce the 2024 Preserve New York grant recipients. At its 2024 meeting, an independent panel selected 21 applicants in 17 counties to receive support totaling $264,388.

“Projects funded through Preserve New York often mark the beginning of bigger preservation efforts, and the League takes tremendous pride in helping to jumpstart this important work,” said Jay DiLorenzo, President of the Preservation League of NYS. “We can’t wait to see how this year’s grantees tackle these projects and look forward to continuing to be a resource into the future. We are grateful for the continued partnership of the New York State Council on the Arts, as well as the additional support from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, which makes these grants possible.”

The grantees are listed below in alphabetical order by county. Scroll through to learn more or jump straight to a specific project.

Albany County

*Pictured: one of the homes on Pine Hollow Rd. designed by Henry L. Blatner in the 1940s*

Pine Hollow Arboretum | Cultural Resources Survey | $5,168

“The Pine Hollow Arboretum is delighted to be the recipient of the 2024 Preserve New York Grant,” said Kimberleigh Phelan, PHA Board President. “This generous grant will allow us to engage professionals to complete the very critical scope of work as it relates to the Henry Blatner buildings along Pine Hollow Road. We are truly fortunate and thankful.”

Dr. John W. Abbuhl began planting trees around his home in 1966. His affinity for the land, interest in horticulture, and love of trees combined to inspire the creation of Pine Hollow Arboretum. The mission of the Pine Hollow Arboretum (PHA) is to preserve, manage, and enhance native and introduced species in a natural and aesthetic environment. Since 2018, the organization’s headquarters and entrance have been located at the birthplace of the arboretum, their late founder’s residence located at 34 Pine Hollow Road. The Cultural Resource Survey funded by this Preserve New York grant will study this building along with two others designed by Henry L. Blatner in 1941 and 1942. The survey will be completed by consultant Jessie A. Ravage, with the goal of creating a National Register Historic District.

Chautauqua County

*Pictured: an annotated city map of Jamestown circa 2022*

Jamestown Renaissance Corporation | Cultural Resources Survey | $20,000

This survey will update the City of Jamestown's existing cultural resource survey (CRS) to help guide future historic preservation efforts. Since the initial CRS was completed, three districts have been listed on the National Register of Historic Places (the Downtown Commercial District, Lakeview Heights, and Forest Heights), as have a handful of individual properties.

The original CRS was completed in 1993. While this report has an abundance of knowledge, there is great need for an update. This new CRS, to be completed by consultants from Bero Architecture, will address the gaps between the 1993 study and the current priorities and goals of preservation. In particular, the community is interested in expanding on the brief mention of a section of the City once referred to as "Little Africa."

"The 1993 survey has been immensely valuable to Jamestown’s preservation work over the last 30 years," says Frank Besse, Executive Director of the Jamestown Renaissance Corporation. "However, we recognize that our community’s needs and priorities have evolved, and there is a pressing need to update and expand upon the original findings. This new Cultural Resources Survey will allow us to capture the full scope of Jamestown’s rich heritage, including areas that were previously overlooked, such as the historically significant 'Little Africa' neighborhood. We are excited to partner with Bero Architecture to conduct this comprehensive update, ensuring that our preservation efforts are inclusive and reflective of our city’s diverse history.”

The Jamestown Renaissance Corporation was established in 2006 as a public-private partnership to implement the Jamestown Urban Design plan to assist the economic revitalization of our region. Their vision is to support stronger neighborhoods, a vibrant downtown, and an engaged community.

Columbia County

*Pictured: Riverview Street facing north, the Hudson River is seen on the left with a row of home abutting the street on the right.*

Stuyvesant Landing Historic District Subcommittee, Town of Stuyvesant | Cultural Resources Survey | $8,000

“I look forward to following the progress of the Stuyvesant Landing Historic District committee and Hartgen Associates as they work toward recognition as a registered Historic District,” said Juanita Knott, Town of Stuyvesant Municipal Historian. “Congratulations on the journey ahead!”

Initiated by a group of volunteer homeowners and residents, the project is supported by the Town through a subcommittee of the Town Historian's Office. The proposed Historic District will focus on the town’s landing area fronting the eastern shore of the Hudson River and will preserve and celebrate the architectural, commercial and cultural heritage of the riverfront community between the 18th and early 20th centuries, with the ultimate goal of listing the District on the National Register of Historic Places.

Dutchess County

*Pictured: looking east at Innisfree, the horeshoe bend of a designed stream is seen in the foreground.*

Innisfree Foundation | Cultural Landscape Report | $15,800

Spread across 185 acres, Innisfree Garden is a subtle, innovative integration of globally-inspired design and sustainable, climate-resilient maintenance practices on an ecologically diverse site. Innisfree evolved over more than 60 years, beginning in 1930 – a scholarly understanding of landscape architecture during that period is still in its nascent stages. Innisfree and its landscape architect Lester Collins have been featured in the popular press, but scholarly analysis is limited to Innisfree's National Register Listing, which won a 2019 New York State Historic Preservation Award. Daniel Mackay, Deputy Commissioner, Historic Preservation at NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, called that report a benchmark for cultural landscapes nationwide. The process to complete this Cultural Landscape Report (CLR) will be complex, but the organization hopes it will break important new ground.

Innisfree was deeply influenced by the ideas and forms of Tang Dynasty China; Japan, particularly the Heian Period; Romanticism; Modernism; and nature/ecology. The garden’s designer Lester Collins understood these topics as a designer and scholar. To guide appropriate preservation and stewardship, five scholars—leaders in their respective fields—will write individual chapters in the CLR analyzing how these influences shape the site. As this authentically diverse story is central to how Innisfree identifies as a community resource and envisions expanding public programs and outreach, these five expert studies are prioritized as the first phase of the garden’s CLR. This Preserve New York grant will fund the first two of these chapters: Marc Treib investigating and contextualizing Innisfree as a Modernist work, and Kendall Brown exploring the influences of Japanese art and ideas on Innisfree.

Erie County:

*Pictured: The Nash House Museum is a grey-painted residential structure with Queen Anne-style details, built circa 1892.*

Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission | Condition Report of The Rev. J. Edward Nash House Museum | $14,000

“We are grateful to receive this grant to preserve the integrity of the Nash House Museum,” said Sharon Holley, President of the Michigan Street Preservation Corporation, the nonprofit organization that oversees the Nash House Museum. “This grant will enable us to further our mission to promote, educate, encourage and preserve historical research with respect to the history of the African American community in Buffalo, New York and throughout the country.”

The Nash House Museum will complete a Building Condition Report in partnership with the Heritage Corridor. The comprehensive document will provide a thorough understanding of visible condition issues and how to address them to help create a roadmap for the larger rehabilitation and expansion project set to begin in 2025 with funding from Empire State Development. The plan, to be completed by Clinton Brown Company Architecture, will include:

Brief architectural analysis of the resource's overall current condition (interior and/or exterior)
Illustrations, either drawings (may include sketches and measured drawings) or photographs
Prioritized recommendations for the resource's restoration, rehabilitation, or treatment
Preliminary cost estimates for improvements
Preliminary sketch of two possible options for an elevator to enhance accessibility.

“As an advocate for the community, we endeavor to integrate the African American cultural significance and impact on Buffalo’s history through community education that will inspire the appreciation of our culture and the preservation of our sacred sites,” said Terry Alford, Executive Director of the Heritage Corridor Commission. ”We are fully grateful to the Preservation League of NYS for recognizing our collective efforts in the preservation of the story of the Nash family and the beautiful home they resided in over six decades.”

Once the home of Rev. Edward Nash, the longest-serving pastor of the Michigan Street Baptist Church, the Nash House has been operating as a museum since 2007. Many of Rev. Nash’s sermons and letters that are a crucial part of Buffalo’s African American community history were written here and artifacts from the Nash family are on display.

*Pictured: l-r: Niagara Argus Store, built circa 1882 and the Argus House, built circa 1878*

Black Rock Historical Society | Cultural Resources Survey | $7,568

“The award of this funding recognizes the historic significance of the Lower Black Rock Historic District – the only remaining Erie Canal-era streetscape in Buffalo,” said William Butler, Black Rock Historical Society Board President. “This investment in the preservation of these important resources not only contributes to pride in our community and its rich history, but also will help expand heritage tourism in Western New York.”

This project will encompass the evaluation, nomination, and National Park Service certification of the Lower Black Rock Historic District. The Black Rock Historical Society will contract with kta preservation specialists (Buffalo, NY) to review and complete historic research as well as conduct a field investigation including photo documentation, corroborate the significance of the district, and submit the Certification Application and photographic documentation to the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation and National Park Service for review and approval. At the conclusion of the certification process, the consultant will conduct a community meeting to discuss the history and significance of the historic district and explain potential tax credit program opportunities.

Essex County

*Pictured: The George Block, a commercial stretch in the proposed historic district.*

Town of Jay, NY | Cultural Resources Survey of Au Sable Forks | $9,500

“I am very excited to move forward with the process of making Au Sable Forks an historic district,” stated Town of Jay Supervisor Matt Stanley. “This designation will augment the work previously done to place the Tahawus Cultural Center and Graves Mansion on the National Register.”

Working with consultants from the nonprofit Adirondack Architectural Heritage, the Town of Jay will complete a Cultural Resource Survey with the intention of creating an Au Sable Forks Historic District. The scope of work consists of undertaking all necessary historical research, site work, photography, and writing to prepare a National Register nomination for the proposed district.

Genesee County

*Pictured: The front facade of the LeRoy House, focusing on the columned entryway.*

LeRoy Historical Society | Condition Report | $12,880

Following a 2023 report conducted by structural engineer Steve Rudnicki, the LeRoy Historical Society will work with consultants from Bero Architecture to complete a Condition Report of the circa 1820s LeRoy House. The house has experienced movement due to settling and this report will help lay out a plan for stabilization. In referring to their ongoing stewardship of this historic site, LeRoy Historical Society President Anne Frew said, “We are just all temporary stewards trying to leave it better than we found it!”

The LeRoy Historical Society is a nonprofit educational institution dedicated to the collection, preservation, research, exhibition, and interpretation of artifacts and archival material related to LeRoy and the LeRoy House for the purpose of developing a community resource and a public awareness of LeRoy’s unique history. LeRoy, famously known as the birthplace of JELL-O, has countless stories to tell from its beginnings to its commerce, industries, agriculture, schools, and most importantly, its unique people.

Herkimer County

*Pictured: A commercial stretch in the proposed historic district.*

Village of West Winfield | Cultural Resources Survey | $9,896

“We are excited and honored to receive this grant from the Preservation League of New York State,” said Village of West Winfield Mayor Sandra Smith. “The Village of West Winfield has an interesting array of buildings that represent the Villages’ development from the 1800s into the early 21st century.”

A 2022 Preserve New York grant from the League funded an earlier Historic Resource Survey of the Village of West Winfield. That survey identified potential historic districts for the Village. This 2024 grant will allow the Village of West Winfield to hire Historic Preservation Consultant Jessie Ravage to develop a National Register of Historic Places historic district nomination for the Village. This designation will allow residents and business owners to use commercial and homeowner Historic Tax Credits, which will make maintaining the village's historic sense of place more affordable for those building owners.

Kings County

*Pictured: A stretch of rowhouses in the proposed historic district.*

Prospect Lefferts Gardens Heritage Council Inc. | Cultural Resources Survey | $10,000

“Our goal is to list more eligible buildings on the National Register of Historic Places,” said Prospect Lefferts Gardens Heritage Council Executive Director Richard Walkes. “This will support the expanding preservation efforts in Prospect Lefferts Gardens through Homeowner and Commercial tax credit programs, ensuring the protection of the neighborhood's historic character and fostering community revitalization.”

A Preserve New York grant will fund a reconnaissance-level survey of Prospect Lefferts Gardens, including a detailed summary of cultural history, a narrative description of significance, and development history. A priority will be placed on identifying structures eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places. Consultant William Morache will conduct the survey. This Cultural Resource Survey follows and earlier survey, also funded by a Preserve New York grant in 2022.

Monroe County

*Pictured: The Greek Revival-style Gatehouse in Cobbs Hill Park, seen in the distance with people utilizing the path that surrounds the Park’s reservoir.*

South East Area Coalition | Cultural Resources Survey of Cobbs Hill Park and the surrounding neighborhood | $20,000

“SEAC is happy to empower and support our neighborhoods and communities through a variety of revitalization and preservation efforts, fiduciary services, and active engagement with the residents and businesses in our service area,” said South East Area Coalition Executive Director Mike Evans. “We are proud to be part of Cobbs Hill Park’s efforts to be listed as a Historic District.”

This Cultural Resources Survey will study the proposed Cobbs Hill Historic District, which includes the neighborhood as well as Cobbs Hill Park, Washington Grove, and the Brighton Cemetery. The Cobbs Hill Historic District Committee, a neighborhood group formed to oversee the project, is working in conjunction with South East Area Coalition. Together, they seek to have the Cobbs Hill Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This area was determined eligible for NR listing in 2016 and encompasses approximately 500 properties including residential, commercial, and religious buildings, in addition to the park lands. Consultants from The Landmark Society of Western New York will complete the survey work.

Nassau County

*Pictured: The Van Nostrand-Starkins House is a red clapboard structure, restored to its circa 1810s appearance, with the oldest portion of the house dating to 1680.*

Roslyn Landmark Society | Condition Report of the Van Nostrand-Starkins House | $1,700

“Built in 1680, the Van Nostrand-Starkins House is recognized as the oldest surviving house in Nassau County and the fourth oldest on Long Island,” said Jaime Karbowiak, Executive Director of the Roslyn Landmark Society. “This generous 2024 Preserve New York grant will enable the Roslyn Landmark Society to take a vital step in the preservation of this significant historic treasure by assessing the structure’s condition and determining any maintenance needs necessary to ensure its continued existence and stability far into the future.”

Restored by the Roslyn Landmark Society in the 1970s, the Van Nostrand-Starkins House has served as a historic house museum since 1977. Due to exposure to the elements and normal wear and tear, portions of the Van Nostrand-Starkins House have deteriorated over the years. To maintain proper stewardship over this historic structure, the Roslyn Landmark Society seeks to identify and make any needed repairs to ensure the house's ongoing preservation and its continued accessibility to the public. The first step is to have a conditions assessment completed by a qualified professional to guide further phases of the project which, in addition to maintenance and preservation, will include reinterpretation of the site and development of enhanced educational programming for the public. This Building Condition Report will be completed by John M. Collins, historic architect and founder of John M. Collins Historic Building Design in Oyster Bay, New York.

*Pictured: The Grotto at Old Westbury Gardens.*

Old Westbury Gardens Inc. | Condition Report | $15,396

“Old Westbury Garden is pleased to be the recipient of a 2024 Preserve New York Grant from the Preservation League of NYS,” said Lorraine Gilligan, Director of Preservation at Old Westbury Gardens. “The existing condition report will address hazardous conditions in brick retaining walls adjacent to the Westbury House Service Wing designed by Horace Trumbauer in 1911. The East Lake Grotto has suffered from the effects of hydrostatic pressure. This is a character defining hardscape feature in the historic landscape that will require stabilization. Past Preserve NY grants have been the gateway documents that have opened the door to funding significant restoration projects throughout Old Westbury Gardens. The support from the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation has been critical to our success in preserving Old Westbury Gardens and making it a tourism anchor vital to the Long Island economy.”

The historic Westbury House was built on an artificial berm to create visual impact from various vistas. The nonprofit Old Westbury Gardens (OWG) has learned that best practices were ignored during its original construction. The detailing has resulted in poorly drained areas surrounding the house causing damage to masonry retaining walls. Conditions are critical at the service wing and the adjacent poolside grotto. The purpose of this project will be to determine the extent of deterioration and to provide OWG with data for a phased remediation program. The scope of repairs will address chronic water infiltration and masonry deterioration issues; the on-site assessment will include a limited visual assessment in accessible areas, with select excavation at the backside of the grotto wall to confirm existing non-functional waterproofing and drainage systems. Key features to be evaluated include the West Grotto Wall, Grotto Tunnel, South Grotto Wall, South Service Wing Retaining Wall, and the North Service Wing Retaining Wall. This work will be completed by consultants from Jan Hird Pokorny & Associates.

Ontario County

Town of Phelps | Cultural Resources Survey | $20,000

*Pictured: The Historical Society in the town of Phelps is housed in a brick building featuring a front porch and mansard roof. An addition on the left side mimics the design of the main building.*

“The Town of Phelps is thankful to the Preservation League of New York State to have been awarded this $20,000 grant for a Historic Resource Survey,” said Bill Wellman, Phelps Town Supervisor. “The Town of Phelps has a compelling history in New York State and the data gathered by this survey will not only help us celebrate the buildings and historic sites in Town but will serve as an excellent blueprint for future planning and economic development.”

The goal of this project is to document the Village and Town's historic resources (including buildings, sites, structures, and objects) and to determine preliminary boundaries for areas that may be eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places, either as historic districts or individual listings. The survey report will also be used as a planning tool for the municipalities, allowing the Town and Village of Phelps to have a complete record of historically significant properties that can be used to assist with tourism, programming, and additional documentation and education related to the history and historic resources that play a defining the character of the Town and Village of Phelps. The survey work will be conducted by consultants from the Landmark Society of Western New York.

*Pictured: The firehouse in the village of Victor.*

Village of Victor | Cultural Resources Survey | $15,000

“The Village of Victor Board of Trustees, on behalf of the Village is grateful and proud to be a recipient of a Preserve New York Grant,” said Victor Mayor Gary Hadden. “This grant will assist us in moving forward with efforts to preserve and celebrate the historic value of our Village. We are most grateful for the guidance from the Preservation League of New York State. We respect the importance of the mission of historic preservation.”

Consultants from The Landmark Society of Western NY will conduct a comprehensive reconnaissance level historic resources survey of the entire village of Victor, with the hope of creating one or more State and National Register historic districts.

Otsego County

*Pictured: BVACC is housed in a circa 1830 building that features storefront windows on the ground floor.*

The Butternut Valley Arts & Crafts Center, Inc. | Historic Structure Report | $18,280

“BVACC is honored and grateful to receive this award,” said BVACC Trustee Judith Russell. “The creation of a Historic Structure Report is the essential first step in our journey to restore, preserve, and modernize the 200-year-old structure in which our Art Center is housed. When we have completed the entire revitalization process, we hope the Center will stand for 100 more years, offering our extended rural community opportunities to learn about, explore, and create art. It is without exaggeration when we say our appreciation for the funds for this critical foundation report from the Preservation Leage is boundless.”

The historic building located at 124 Main Street in Morris, NY, began its tenure in 1832 as a dry goods store. It then housed the Kenyon Free Library from 1921-1969. The Butternut Valley Arts and Crafts Center has proudly been promoting the arts from this location since 1971, following the library’s relocation. With their Preserve New York grant, BVACC will develop a Historic Structure Report for their building. This report will document the historic and architectural integrity of the building, assess the existing physical and structural conditions, and provide a set of preservation/rehabilitation treatment recommendations to address current building needs in keeping with its historic significance and contribution to the Morris Historic District. By carefully studying the history and current needs of the building, BVACC can understand how to resolve identified issues with outcomes, both immediate and long term, that are compatible with preserving their heritage. An energy efficiency assessment conducted in 2023 reported that changes should include, but are not limited to, changing the oil fueled furnace for a heat pump; upgrading electrical, ventilation and lighting systems; vapor barrier for basement to prevent further water damage; and sealing the shell with insulation and other improvements. BVACC will use this HSR as a roadmap to direct the organization on how to make changes in an intentional and deliberate way. The HSR will be completed by consultants from Landmark Consulting.

Rensselaer County

*Pictured: The Federal-style Hart-Cluett House is clad in white marble and features green shutters.*

Rensselaer County Historical Society | Condition Report of the Hart-Cluett House | $13,090

“As we approach the 200th anniversary of the Hart-Cluett House we are grateful to the Preservation League of NYS for supporting the important documentation needed to further preserve this rare example of a Federal Style Townhouse designed by noted New York City architect, Martin Euclid Thompson. Since its founding, the Preservation League of NYS has played an integral role in the preservation of the built environment in Rensselaer County. Preserving historic and cultural resources are proven economic drivers, contributing millions of dollars in revenue to our cities and towns throughout the county through business and tourism initiatives.” – Kathryn T. Sheehan, RCHS Executive Director and County & City Historian

“The Hart-Cluett House has always been an amazing tool in bringing history to life and we are excited by this opportunity to expand and engage with our community in creating new, exciting means of accessibility. Certainly, this project is the foundation of our future.” – Samantha Mahoski, RCHS Curator & Archivist

The Rensselaer County Historical Society (RCHS) is experiencing a very exciting time of expansion: in physical staff, programming, collections management, and restoration of their historic house museum. With the largest staff in recent years, the organization is eager to assess areas of opportunity for new engagement and grow in the ways they serve Rensselaer County through their history and cultural programs and preservation of the historic landscape of the county. In 2027, RCHS will celebrate its 100th anniversary, as well as the bicentennial of the construction of the Hart-Cluett House. As these significant milestones approach, RCHS is eager to update an earlier historic structure report from 2000 to include more recent repairs, reassess the overall condition of the house, and prioritize projects to come. The procurement of a condition report to round out the details of that first HSR will allow RCHS to move forward with intentionality as they reinvest in community engagement and optimize the learning, use, and enjoyment of their one-of-a-kind historic house. The Condition Report will be completed by consultants from John G. Waite Associates.

Suffolk County

*Pictured: Calvary Baptist Church in East Hampton’s Freetown neighborhood.*

East Hampton Historical Farm Museum | Cultural Resources Survey | $14,400

“We are so excited to receive this grant, which allows for an evaluation of the community known as Freetown for the first time ever after its beginnings in the early 19th century,” said Prudence Carabine, East Hampton Historical Farm Museum. “The values of community, faith, education, and love of the environment continue today in its original families who choose to stay.”

The Freetown Cultural Resources Survey will highlight the historic places of Indigenous, African-descended, and European-descended people who comprised East Hampton’s historic working-class labor force. The survey will be completed by consultant Dr. Allison McGovern and will determine the boundaries of the Freetown Neighborhood, document the historic resources within Freetown, and establish a narrative of historic context to highlight the historic and cultural significance of the neighborhood. Photo-documentation of existing resources will take place along with archival research and oral history and Traditional Knowledge collection. The results of the survey will assist East Hampton Town Planning in understanding the geographical and cultural boundaries of the Freetown Neighborhood and provide recommendations for preservation strategies based on community input.

*Pictured: The Mulford Farm, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is considered one of America’s most significant, intact, English Colonial farmsteads.*

East Hampton Historical Society | Condition Report of the Mulford Farmhouse | $13,440

“Thanks to the Preservation League of NYS, we can start the restoration of the Mulford Farmhouse to how it looked in the 1770s and ensure that East Hampton’s role in the American Revolution is a vital part of America’s 250th Anniversary celebrations,” said Steve Long, Executive Director of the East Hampton Historical Society.

Historic Preservation Consultant Robert Hefner will develop a Condition Report for the Mulford Farmhouse focusing on the interior. In his Report, Mr. Hefner will make recommendations to help restore a whole cohesive interior that allows interpretation of life in the house and in East Hampton during the third quarter of the 18th century, specifically during the American Revolution.

The mission of the East Hampton Historical Society is to illuminate the past and inspire the community through the preservation and interpretation of East Hampton’s history. To achieve its mission, the Historical Society preserves and interprets six historic sites, presents a wide range of exhibits and programs, and partners with other community organizations to keep the past present in East Hampton.

Warren County

*Pictured: The circa 1893 Remington Block building in Chester.*

Historical Society of the Town of Chester | Cultural Resources Survey of the Chestertown Historic District | $10,750

“We’re thrilled to receive this award,” said Ryan Hutton, Historical Society board member and owner of the Carol Theatre building in the proposed Chestertown district. “This enables us to pursue a historic designation that not only recognizes our storied past, but opens up opportunities for property owners to maintain and improve Chestertown’s historic core buildings.”

This project includes hiring a professional historic preservation consultant to conduct a cultural resource survey of the hamlet of Chestertown and prepare the necessary documentation to designate a historic district that includes most of the historic hamlet.

The Chester community recognizes that there are over 100 historic properties, dating as far back as the 18th century, that contribute to the enduring appeal of Chestertown and deserve recognition for their historical significance. For this project, the Historical Society and Town Historian will work closely with Roblee Historic Preservation, LLC to conduct the survey, drawing heavily on locally maintained historic archives of the community. The end goal is a nomination of the proposed historic district to the National Register of Historic Places. The team will also partner with the nonprofit Northern Forest Center to engage with property owners and the public about the process, the value of the proposed historic district, and garner the necessary support to create a designated historic district. Official designation could allow for homeowners and business owners to utilize Historic Tax Credits and grants for historic structures to offset the costs of maintaining their historic buildings.

Wyoming County

*Two cottages in the Silver Lake district. In the foreground you see a two-story home with a wraparound porch and second floor balcony.*

Silver Lake Institute | Cultural Resources Survey | $9,520

"The Silver Lake Institute is thrilled to begin work on the expansion of the Silver Lake National Register Historic District," said Bradley Huber, Grants Committee Chair. "This project aims to incorporate many areas previously excluded, helping to preserve the rich history of the Institute and extend the benefits of designation to more residents. By documenting and protecting the social and architectural significance of this cottage community, we ensure that future generations can appreciate and learn from our unique heritage. We are incredibly thankful for the support at the Preservation League of NYS for making this possible."

This survey, undertaken by consultants at the Landmark Society of Western NY, will look at structures outside the current Historic District boundary, with the goal of expanding the district. These cottages share significant historical associations with those within the original district, being constructed in similar architectural styles and during roughly the same timeframe. By extending the district boundaries, this project seeks to provide protection and recognition to these overlooked properties while more accurately aligning with the historic footprint of the Silver Lake Institute established in 1873.

“NYSCA is proud to work with the Preservation League of New York State and support these vital projects which represent the rich diversity of our state’s history,” said Erika Mallin, Executive Director of the New York State Council on the Arts. “Congratulations to all the grantees and our thanks for your essential work, ensuring the survival of these cultural treasures for generations.”

“The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation is pleased to continue its collaboration with the Preservation League of New York State to support preservation projects on Long Island. This funding prepares our stewards to professionally assess the needs of their historic sites to best serve their communities. Whether considering renovation, restoration, adaptive reuse or ADA compliance these awards are invaluable in helping assess those possibilities.” said Kathryn M. Curran, Executive Director of the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation.

Preserve New York is a regrant partnership between the New York State Council on the Arts (NYSCA) and the Preservation League, made possible with the support of the Office of the Governor and the New York State Legislature. The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation has generously provided additional funds to support nonprofit projects in Nassau and Suffolk Counties.

Since 1993, Preserve New York has been providing funds to municipalities and nonprofit organizations that need technical, professional assistance to guide a variety of preservation projects. The building condition reports, historic structure reports, cultural landscape reports, and cultural resource surveys funded through this program lead to positive outcomes across New York’s 62 counties. These grants support important arts and cultural initiatives, as well as economic development related to our state’s arts and cultural heritage. With the announcement of the 2024 awards, support provided by Preserve New York since its launch in 1993 totals more than $3.9 million to 550 projects statewide.

About the New York State Council on the Arts
The mission of the New York State Council on the Arts is to foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all. To support the ongoing recovery of the arts across New York State, the Council on the Arts will award $162 million in FY2025, serving organizations and artists across all 10 state regions. The Council on the Arts further advances New York's creative culture by convening leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources. Created by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1960 and continued with the support of Governor Kathy Hochul and the New York State Legislature, the Council is an agency that is part of the Executive Branch. For more information on NYSCA, please visit arts.ny.gov, and follow NYSCA's Facebook page, on X @NYSCArts and Instagram @NYSCouncilontheArts.

About the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation
The Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, established in 1987, primarily supports the study of Long Island history and its role in the American experience.

Preserve New York Grants - 2024