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Mansion Renovation
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Yaddo Honored by Preservation Foundation
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 The newly constructed Yaddo mansion terrace retaining wall is shown here before the stonework was replaced. |
Saratoga Springs, NY (March 10, 2004) - Yaddo received a Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation 2004 Spirit of Preservation Award at a banquet here Saturday capping a national preservation conference. Elaina Richardson, president of Yaddo, accepted the award, which was presented along with a Legislative Resolution, proposed by Assemblyman James Tedisco and adopted March 10.
The award recognizes Yaddo for "extraordinary commitment" to restoring the historic buildings that comprise the famed artists' retreat. Beginning in 1991, Yaddo began the process of creating a comprehensive plan for the maintenance of the Yaddo mansion and grounds. The plan has guided Yaddo's investment for more than a decade, most recently resulting in the careful rebuilding of the mansion terrace, revitalization of the Yaddo Gardens, and an extensive renovation of West House, the second largest of the 17 buildings on the Yaddo grounds. The Yaddo mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Designed by New Jersey architect William Halsey Wood for Spencer and Katrina Trask, the mansion, completed in 1893, and related buildings have since 1926 been the site of an artists' community in Saratoga Springs.
"The stewardship by the Yaddo Corporation of its buildings and landscapes represents an impressive commitment to historic preservation," said Carrie Woerner, Executive Director of the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation. "This award honors the leadership and dedication of the Yaddo Board of Directors, its staff and volunteers, to maintaining the authenticity and sense of history that is so important to fostering creativity and innovation."
Ms. Richardson said the success of Yaddo's restoration program is due to strong support from its board, most especially a facilities committee chaired by Charles V. Wait, President of The Adirondack Trust Company, and expert guidance from Olsen Associates Architects and LA Group Landscape Architecture and Engineering, both of Saratoga Springs.
The Spirit of Preservation Award is presented to an organization or corporation that has demonstrated a significant, long-term commitment to the preservation of an historic site or building in Saratoga Springs and the surrounding communities. Founded in 1977, the Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation works to promote the preservation and enhancement of the architectural, cultural, and landscaped heritage of Saratoga Springs