NEWSLETTER • FALL - WINTER EDITION • 2011

WRIGHT ON THE LAKE

ESTABLISHED TO PRESERVE FRANK ’S ESTATE Photo: Scott Schultz Scott Photo: Historic Landscape Restoration at Graycliff Underway! Rappelling down the cliff face, taking soil samples, creating geothermal scans and reviewing topography: these were all undertaken by Pressley Associates of Boston, MA and their subcontractors Watts Engineering and Architecture and McMahon & Mann Consulting Engineers over the last several months, as part of the restoration of Graycliff’s historic landscape. A formal ground breaking ceremony (see page 5) was held on Friday, September 30th, attended by US Congressman Brian Higgins; Mark Thomas, Director of the Western District, NYS Parks; trustees of the East Hill Foundation, including Ami and Warren Greatbatch, Kenneth Dulian, Ann Sweeney, and (although , the earliest donor to the landscape restoration

O. John Siegel; Wendy Pierce Phyllis Pierce C was unable to attend and was much missed) Robert Irwin and Catherine Schweitzer from the Baird Photo: P. Mahoney Collection Mahoney P. Photo: Foundation; Jean McKeown from the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo; NYS Assemblymen “Coming in this house would be ABERMEHL and something like putting on your hat Dennis Gabryszak (143rd District), Kevin Smardz (146th District), Francis Pordum, Supervisor

. A H and going outdoors…” of the Town of Evans; Tuona Batchelor, representing US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand; Daniel Myers, DW E — to representing NYS Senator Mark Gristanti; Darren Kempner, representing Erie County Executive Darwin Martin, correspondence, 1926 Chris Collins; Thomas Heltz from M&T Bank; and Jack Walsh III of the Western New York Foundation.

OURTESY They celebrated work that has commenced and will be continuing for several months. C Enjoy the Holidays After introductions and remarks by Patrick J. Mahoney, President of the Graycliff Conservancy, RINTING a viburnum doublefile shrub was ceremonially planted on the Maid’s Croquet Lawn. Guests

• P at Graycliff then adjourned for cider and cookies on the cloudy but still warm autumn day at Graycliff. Following refreshments, guests including Graycliff Docents and Green Team members were RAPHICS invited to a presentation by Pressley Associates on the specifics of the historic landscape restoration. EZ G Yuletide Tours Pressley Associates has produced Part II of the Cultural Landscape Report; Part I had been created previously by Heritage Landscapes, Inc. of Vermont and Connecticut. Pressley Associates is responsible OURTESY C & for producing construction documents and supervision of construction; all under the watchful eye

ESIGN of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation. D Pavilion Gift Shop Work will continue over the winter months and into the spring of 2012. REATIVE C

www.GraycliffEstate.org A Message From The President: Measurable Accomplishments and Planning Ahead for 2012 Another season is winding down at Graycliff current owners of Graycliff at the time, the and like our previous seasons we have some Piarist Fathers. When the Piarist Fathers left measurable accomplishments to report Graycliff, the Czoras continued to be good BOARD OF DIRECTORS and enjoy. neighbors to the young Graycliff Conservancy (Jim once used his truck to pull my deeply Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A. The Family Sun Porch President Regarding restoration the first interior work stuck sport utility out of the mud on one of the lawns!). Diane Schrenk is nearly complete on the Family Sun Porch. Vice President The Hooper Family Foundation sponsored this The cottage was listed on the National Register Diane Chrisman project and BRD Construction was able to meet of Historic Places along with Graycliff shortly after Recording Secretary From The Lake Side: A Message From The Executive Director the goal of having the majority of the work the Conservancy was established. When Jim Chris Merry done by Early October. The Sun Porch now passed away (he had been preceded by his wife 2011 was a Year of Much Progress Treasurer sparkles with its restored colored stucco Patricia) he asked his children to try to sell their What an exciting year it has been! Graycliff has made so much . This year, thanks to their help, we saw the Gregory Bernas Martje Bryce Hague ceiling and wall finishes, painted wood home to the Graycliff Conservancy in order that Joseph A. Blatz progress, and so many thrilling events have taken place…where development of several items created just for Graycliff...see for moldings and a custom made rubber tile floor. the original estate could be whole again. Sandra L. Brant even to begin? Here are just a few highlights: work is progressing yourself on page 11. Charles A. LeFevre, ASA Final work continues in installing the last of After a grieving period, the fiveCzora children on the restoration of the historic landscape; Phase V of restoration Harvey Garrett The Governance Committee, chaired by Board Secretary the seven sets of steel and glass doors that agreed to sell the cottage to Graycliff. It was a has commenced with the restoration of our first interior room Susan J. Herold Diane Chrisman and facilitated by members Mary Ann Kresse, connect the sun porch from the fern room and painful process to sell the family home and it is Michael A. Longo, RA thanks to the and the Hooper Family Foundation; National Trust Barbara Nevergold, Nancy Brock and Catherine Schweitzer, reinstalling the historic Bradley and Hubbard now the Conservancy’s challenge to steward this Sharon Osgood, Esq. for Historic Preservation Conference was a huge success focused on the investiture of several new Board members, manufactured lighting fixtures that were Jack Quinn III building into the future. Erie County supported Catherine F. Schweitzer Meanwhile, behind the scenes, Board President Pat Mahoney through the Nominating subcommittee. As a result, Chris Merry, original to the space. A formal re-dedication this acquisition with a $40,000 grant of the Barbara A. Seals Nevergold, Ph.D. keeps his hand on the tiller, guiding the Conservancy with a Sue Herold, Jack Quinn and Mike Longo have all joined the Board of the space will follow early next season. $135,000 purchase price. Clifford E. Whitman William A. Wisniewski steady hand, while also serving as Chair of Graycliff’s Design in recent months. The Committee also provided leadership for The Sun Porch was one of the highlights The front porch at the cottage was a natural Committee, overseeing restoration. Fellow Design Committee a new Graycliff Strategic Plan, developed thanks to funding of the visits by the National Trust for Historic gathering place for the Czoras and the members Joe Blatz, Sandy Brant, Tom Carleton, John Conlin, Diane from the Fund for the Arts and building on the previous two Preservation National Conference held here Conservancy hopes they will still think of HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS and supervised restoration of Graycliff strategic plans. The Rev. Margaret R. Foster Schrenk, Sharon Osgood Greg Bernas in mid-October. it as their porch and occasionally stop by Darwin Martin Foster the first interior room of the Isabelle R. Martin House, as well as Russ Maxwell, Chair of Governmental Relations, assisted The Caretaker’s Cottage and spend some time there. the major restoration of Graycliff’s historic grounds and gardens. by Sandra Brant, worked closely with elected officials for the In 1947, the Martin family sold the caretakers Plans are still being developed on how ADVISORS Buildings and Grounds Chair Clifford Whitman worked closely betterment of Graycliff. Their efforts resulted in productive visits cottage (now known as 6482 Old Lake Shore to use the building, although a trial tour Jason Aronoff with Green Team co-chairs Kathy and Dale Marriott and Green by several governmental leaders. Please see articles on pages 4. Rd.) along with almost one half acre from the has already made us realize that there is a Carol A. Bronnenkant original estate. This portion of property was John H. Conlin Team volunteers, and our grounds looked particularly lovely all , chair of the Marketing Committee, produced a compelling story to be shared with the Bill Wisniewski adjacent to the road and did not include Jack Quinan season thanks to their efforts. new brochure just in time for the conference of the public there. Douglas Swift National Trust frontage on Lake Erie. The cottage had been and of Graycliff’s Development ...as well as the design of two lovely new A Friend and Supporter EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Barbara Harder Jessica Hearst for Historic Preservation constructed in 1934 as a result of a long Committee chaired a wonderful second Graycliff Gala, raising posters for the gift shop – in addition to print ads near and far. Iney Wallens, a longtime radio personality Reine Hauser exchange between Frank Lloyd Wright and both funds and enthusiasm with help from originally from Buffalo, passed away in early scottalexanderwood design inc. ©2007 Diane Schrenk The Human Resources Committee, ably chaired by Barbara Seals Darwin D. Martin. Martin thought the cottage and volunteers October as well. Iney hosted a radio show Marion Schmidt, Phyllis Spears, Phyllis Weyer, Nevergold, with Diane Chrisman and Chris Merry, recommended should be built at the road, Wright preferred The Summer broadcast on WHLD-AM and frequently Beth Bloomquist, Antoinette Forth, and Debbie Gorski. that long-time part-time staffer Shannon Lyons become full-time. it be integrated into the low stone wall that Solstice was enjoyed during a celebration for Graycliff funders featured segments on her show in the early With the approval of the Board, Graycliff now has two full time defined the family compound near the entry on June 17th . Special thanks to and years of the Conservancy. These featured Diane Schrenk Sharon Osgood staff members. into the property from the Dexter Rumsey BURNISHING THE JEWEL for their help with the organization of the festivities; and segments resulted in widespread attention for Estate known then as ‘Faraway Farms’ (today especially to our own , former Board member Volunteer Coordinators Carol Wahlenmayer and Phyllis Spears the tours that helped secure the property. Your Financial Support is Vital! Thomas Jambro known as ‘The Bluffs’). Martin misplaced the and Graycliff supporter in so many ways, large and small. are truly Graycliff seraphim. Organizing volunteers for a myriad Landscape Restoration plans for the Wright designed cottage in 1929 Funding-already secured-- of tasks, ranging from the especially neat and tidy Housekeeping The Landscape Restoration broke ground Diane Schrenk, chair of the Education Committee, worked and was reluctant to engage Wright to redesign must be matched Crew, to volunteers for all kinds of special events, to volunteers to in the Fall and will continue in the Spring closely with Education Committee members Pat Mahoney, the building when he was able to finance its with private contributions assist in the office and the Pavilion Gift Shop, to representing and Summer of 2012. There will be major Joe Blatz, June Crawford, Scott Schultz, Marion Schmidt and Marcy construction in 1934. The cottage was built for Graycliff’s restoration Graycliff at fairs and festivals...Carol and Phyllis do it all. restorations on much of the property with Workman to strengthen Standard and Master Docent training; following many of the details used to construct to continue apace. They keep track of contact information, provide orientation significant visual impact especially to the offer children’s programs (see pg 9); send Wright (out) on the the chauffeur’s house (now referred to as the for all volunteers, and always with a smile. Working closely with home grounds on the land side. Crucial Projects in need of Road (see pg 10) and organize the annual Graycliff Lecture Series Green Team Chairs and Docent Coordinators Foster House). The cottage built was larger Immediate Funding: Kathy and Dale Marriott Financially, Graycliff has met continuing (see pg 10) with support from Hodgson Russ LTD and the New and are truly special than Wright’s design but generally followed the Scott Schultz Marion Schmidt, Carol and Phyllis economic challenges with strong attendance Misting Fire Protection York State Council on the Arts. and dedicated volunteers, because of whom Graycliff is flourishing. organization of spaces Wright had suggested. It is currently thought that the builder at Graycliff, and renewed public interest. We look forward Restoring the Interior of the Graycliff Treasurer Chris Merry, assisted by Finance Committee A special thank you to former Board member . Cheryl St. George George Ingersoll, was responsible for the simple to the restoration progress that will surely Isabelle R. Martin House members Chuck LeFevre, Steve Musso and Christine Collins kept us stepped down as a Board member a couple of years ago, Cheryl design which harmonized with the estate from keep the Estate in the press and help integrate financially on track. Another year – another “squeaky clean” yet continues her dedication to Graycliff by organizing Graycliff’s Strengthening On-Site Operations a great distance. Conservancy events into daily life. audit, we are very proud to report. Annual Spring Clean-up and our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. Please contribute–all donations The Pavilion Gift Shop has its own committee, too, co-chaired Thanks, Cheryl...we really appreciate and your efforts! In 1961, Jim and Patricia Czora purchased are tax-deductible the cottage as their home. They raised their – Patrick J. Mahoney, AIA by Jessica Hearst and Marcy Workman, with help this season from For information: five children there and were close with the Board President 716-947-9217 —Reine Hauser 2 3 Historic Landscape Restoration Ground Breaking Ceremony

Congressman Brian Higgins, Conservancy President Patrick Mahoney, and Chris Fahey at Graycliff Warren and Ami Greatbatch, US Congressman Jean M. McKeown from the Community Foundation The Beauty of Nature and the Genius of Architecture Brian Higgins, Mark Thomas, Director, Western District for Greater Buffalo, Town of Evans Supervisor NYS Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation Fran Pordum and Darren Kempner, representative of County Executive Chris Collins

Elected Officials Enjoy Summer Tours of Graycliff Estate

Assemblyman Kevin Smardz with This summer saw visits by several elected officials, both new and returning. Executive Director Reine Hauser, July 2011 First, US Congressman Brian Higgins toured Graycliff again this summer. Higgins’ long-time interest in and commitment to water-front development, tourism and historic preservation is well known; and we were honored by his presence.

New York State Senator Patrick Gallivan visited in July, followed shortly thereafter by New York Michael Pratt from Watts Engineering rappelling down the cliff Soil Testing for landscape restoration Robert J.A. Irwin, Trustee, Baird Foundation State Assemblyman Kevin Smardz. It was a first visit for each and both were impressed with the at the landscape groundbreaking ceremony amount of restoration completed and work that was in progress. It was a pleasure sharing National Trust for Historic Preservation Conference the workings of our new fire suppression system with the Senator. Graycliff working collaboratively with other organizations, resulting in a smashing success! Representing Erie County, both County Executive Chris Collins and, the following week, What happens when thousands of preservationists arrive in Western New York? A great time! Legislator Lynn Dixon dropped by for updates. Graycliff Board member Barbara Harder This autumn, the national conference of the National Trust for Historic Preservation was was on hand to show them the latest restoration work. held in Buffalo and environs. Four years in the planning process, the conference attracted The Graycliff Conservancy is deeply gratified with the encouragement it receives from elected preservationists from throughout the US as well as internationally. Erie County Legislator Lynn Dixon and Reine Hauser officials in all areas of our government. Some represent the district in which Graycliff is August 2011 at Graycliff Graycliff was at the center of it all, with three different Field Sessions as part of the located; others recognize Graycliff’s importance as a regional attraction that is vital to the conference. Seven buses, which visited other sites in the area designed by Wright, area-wide initiative for heritage and cultural tourism, such as US Senators Charles Schumer and as well as the Botanical Gardens, arrived at Graycliff over the course of five days of the Kristin Gilibrand; New York State Senator Mark Grisanti; members of the Erie County conference. At the same time, conference attendees arrived individually for tours, which Legislature; and elected officials from the Town of Evans. We are very grateful for their were scheduled hourly throughout the conference. Graycliff was deemed a “must-see” by support. conference organizers. Conference attendees were uniformly affirmative in their comments about Graycliff, and Noted Photographer Pedro Guerero Visits Graycliff the Conservancy’s efforts to restore the complex. In fact, one attendee, Douglas Weimer, At the end of August, noted photographer Pedro Guerrero toured Graycliff with his wife, an attorney with the Library of Congress, said “I had great expectations of Graycliff, and it Dixie Ledger. The tour, led by Graycliff President Patrick Mahoney, covered every aspect of far exceeded my expectations.” Graycliff’s architecture. Born in 1917, is noted for photographing the work of Guerrero In preparation for the conference, Graycliff volunteers outdid themselves with plantings, , as well as sculptors and six- NYS Senator Patrick Gallivan and Reine Hauser Frank Lloyd Wright Louise Nevelson Alexander Calder. Guerero’s housekeeping, assisting in the gift shop and much more. Docents refreshed their decade long career includes long-term relationships with each of these 20th century artists. July 2011 at Graycliff knowledge of Graycliff, updating their information with the latest research. images have appeared in countless books as well as his own publications, Guerrero’s Restoration continued with the Family Sun Porch, and a ground breaking for the including his most recent work, published in The Family Sun Porch: Restoration in progress, 2011 Pedro E. Guerrero: A Photographer’s Journey, restoration of Graycliff’s historic landscape. An original table cloth and napkins 2007 by Princeton Architectural Press, the 1994 Picturing Wright, an Album from Frank Lloyd donated by the Foster Family was on display for the duration of the conference. Wright’s Photographer, published by Pomegranate Artbooks, and the 2000 Calder at Home, the Joyous Environment of Alexander Calder, published by Stewart, Tabori and Chang. One of the highlights of the conference for Graycliff was working collaboratively with other area preservationists, organizations, and foundations. In partnership with Wright For 20 years, was the chief visual interpreter of Wright’s homes, producing Guerrero sites, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, Niagara University, and a group of the only visual record of work as it appeared on completion. Emerging from Wright’s nineteen cultural organizations, joint tours, a retail display and related projects were each a modest background, first professional job at the age of 22 in 1939 was Guerrero’s crafted specifically for the conference. Perhaps best of all was working with theNational photographing West, the Arizona home of Frank Lloyd Wright. Guerrero Trust for Historic Preservation itself, whose professional staff was superbly organized and subsequently photographed houses belonging to such legendary artists and architects consistently helpful. Most of all, Graycliff congratulates Regional Chairs Catherine as Alexander Calder, Louise Nevelson, Marcel Breuer, John Huston, Philip Johnson, and Julia Schweitzer and Robert Skerker for their diligence and leadership which resulted in a Photographer Pedro Guerrero tours Graycliff A documentary on the life and work of was completed in 2007. Stanley Hooper inspecting the Family Sun Porch Child. Pedro Guerrero smashing success. 4 5 Festive Yuletide Tours for the Holidays Join us between Christmas and New Years – December 26 and December 31 – for our annual Yuletide Tours. Holiday decorations, hot mulled cider and the time of year when Graycliff’s architecture is especially prominent. It’s clearer than during the spring, summer or autumn, without the leaves that can obscure a Wrightian angle. Festive Yuletide tours are especially relaxing during what can be a hectic time of the year. Volunteerism at Graycliff – The Heartbeat & Muscle of the Conservancy Graycliff Estate Welcomes New Docents It has been a very active year for Graycliff’s volunteers. Many, many thanks to all of the Graycliff is pleased to salute the 2011 class of docents as they join the Graycliff family. docents and chaperones who have led tours, to the Green Team that has cared for our The Graycliff Garage Sale 2011 Maureen Meyer, Kathy Mehltretter, Loriann Conti and Cindy Trowman are now welcoming grounds, the Housekeeping Teams that have kept the buildings looking clean and tidy, Loretta Worth, Mary Kay DiPaolo and a happy shopper guests to Graycliff and introducing them to the lake home of the Martin family. the volunteers who have assisted in the gift shop and with mailings, those presenting the Wright-on-the-Road program, and the volunteers who have helped out with many special Scott Schultz, assisted by Marion Schmidt, began working with this season’s docent events during 2011. trainees at the end of March. Training included Pat Mahoney’s wonderfully informative lecture regarding the career of Frank Lloyd Wright and Anita Mitchell’s warm presentation Graycliff hosted hundreds of visitors during the national conference of the National Trust about the history of the Martin Family. Margie Stehlik gave the new trainees a special tour for Historic Preservation in October. Special thanks to each of the many volunteers who of the Martin house that took them to areas that visitors generally do not see. assisted before, during, and after the conference to ensure that visitors had a first-class experience at Graycliff. This summer, long-time Graycliff volunteer Marcy Workman joined Scott and Marion to The varied special events that Graycliff volunteers have assisted with this year, including create mid-season training for the first time. This session was designed as an expedited setting up, working at, and cleaning up after include the Graycliff Gala held in March, the method of preparing docents to conduct a basic tour. Thanks to John Conlin, Patrick Mahoney, April spring cleanup, two lectures at the Burchfield-Penney Art Center, a summer solstice Anita Mitchell, Annegret Richards, and Scott Schultz (among others) a comprehensive Graycliff Enjoy Yuletide Tours in December event for donors, the second annual Graycliff garage sale at the home of volunteer Loretta tour text provides a solid basis for training; it is updated annually as research is completed Worth, the Lewiston Art Festival, the Graycliff annual meeting, and the ground breaking and new information becomes available. For docent training, we continue to refine the ceremony for the historic landscape restoration. Volunteers Wendy Duignan and June Crawford learning methods with which we can enrich the knowledge and confidence of our trainees. at the Lewiston Art Festival We had a wonderful July day for the second annual Graycliff garage sale. Fifteen donors We are looking forward to 2012 and a new training season. Already several people have to the sale kept arriving at Loretta Worth’s home in Boston, which in turn meant sending expressed interest in becoming docents next season. Marcy and Marion will be arranging her husband, Ray for more tables at the fire hall where he volunteers. One donor pirated some informal gatherings for docents and docent-trainees over the winter months prior donations from her basement while her husband, intent on keeping everything, played to the start of training. golf. Nancy McNaughton, Mary Kay DiPaolo, Sally Dondero, Nadine Tasevski, Arlene Morrow, – Marion Schmidt Joan Osborne, Loretta Worth and Carol Wahlenmayer sorted, sold and packed up. Just about $400 was raised for Graycliff, and unsold items were donated to St. Vincent de Paul. Wright-on-the-Road: Graycliff Lecture Program Available We are currently seeking a volunteer to host a 2012 garage sale. Would your organization, church or social group like a free illustrated talk about Graycliff? On a mid-August weekend Graycliff set up with Buffalo Tours at the Lewiston Art Festival. Graycliff welcomes New Docent Maureen Meyers Wright-on-the-Road provides a one-hour program of striking illustrations and commentary By Sunday morning rain was teeming in Buffalo, but fortunately not at Lewiston, so our that explains the history of Graycliff and the restoration process. Wright-on-the-Road talks plucky volunteers made their way to the festival, distributing over 500 pieces of literature. are provided by experienced docents who are entertaining and knowledgeable about the Thanks to volunteers Dick and Phyllis O’Brien, Bill and Carol Wolfers, Margaret Santi, history of Graycliff; this past year a dozen presentations were given to organizations in WNY. Lorraine Sandow, Wendy Duignan, June Crawford, Loretta Worth, Tammy Yekich, Phyllis Spears, Carol Wahlenmayer at the Lewiston Art Festival The programs are updated annually, can be tailored to meet the needs of your group’s specific and Carol Wahlenmayer who represented us at Lewiston this year. interests and are easy to arrange. Special thanks to June Justice Crawford, Wendy Duignan, Our housekeeping volunteers continue to keep Graycliff shining for visitors in spite of Phyllis Weyer, Richard and Priscilla O’Brien and the rest of the Wright-on-the-Road team for their health-related losses we’ve suffered this year. Currently meeting on Friday mornings, willingness to go “on the Road” for Graycliff. If your group – church or community, alumni the volunteers dust, vacuum, sweep and love Graycliff. In September both teams worked association, historical society, garden club or any other special interest –would like to schedule together for the first time, followed by a brunch. In October another joint session was a Wright-on-the-Road presentation, please let us know by email at [email protected] or by held, followed by lunch at Simply Gourmet. Call Graycliff to join us. Next year we phone at 716-947-9217. entertain the possibility of a weekend team as well. New volunteers are welcome. Graycliff welcomed several new volunteers this season. Welcome to Linda Anderson, Connie Bacon, Tara Marie Clack, Cynthia Coney-Trowman, Christina Conner, Lori Ann Conti, New – Graycliff Window Decals! Colleen Creighton, Lynette Domanski, Margaret Fanning, Kim Gryko, Jordan Hillman, Bryan Ingleman, Kathleen Leuthe, Gerald Malabre, Kathy Mehltretter, Maureen Meyers, Across the country…and in foreign lands…Graycliff members and others are sporting a Cam Morton, Judy Shuler, Charles Smith, Dawn Wadsworth, Teddy Watson, Lisa Williams, new decal on the window of their automobiles. Designed by Bill and Carol Wolfers, and Matt Wrobel. EZ Graphics, and underwritten by long-time volunteers (in Dale and Kathy Marriott with Beth Bloomquist fact, Green Team co-leaders) Kathy and Dale Marriott, the To all of Graycliff’s volunteers, new and old – thank you. We couldn’t do it without you! working in the Graycliff gardens attractive ovals look great on any car. All new and renewing – Carol Wahlenmayer, Phyllis Spears,Volunteer Co-Chairs members are receiving a decal with their membership cards, so look for your decal when you renew. If you are not yet a OPEN OPEN member, here’s just another reason to join the Graycliff NowY EARshop online at the Pavilion Gift Shop YEAR Conservancy. ROUND ROUND Call for hours Call for hours A summer tour led by Jerry Wahlenmayer 716-947-92www.GraycliffEstate.org17 716-947-9217

6 7 Major Donations

Our gifts can last beyond our lifetimes, and one way to do so is through Graycliff’s Margaret Foster Isabelle R. Martin Society. As a member of the Society, your gift made through estate Donates Additional planning will allow you to join a select group China and Silver Box of individuals who are committed to helping the Graycliff Conservancy to preserve and Margaret Foster, the granddaughter of Darwin and Isabelle Martin, has donated a lovely restore the Graycliff Estate through the years silver box, which once stood on her grandmother’s dresser at Graycliff, in anticipation to come. Your contribution will provide an Graycliff Conservancy Announces of the National Trust for Historic Preservation conference. Additionally, Foster has enduring legacy and will ensure Graycliff’s generously added to her donations of family china in recent years, by donating an continued success. Please help assure our New Board Members in September 2011 additional thirteen dinner plates in the Spode Trophies pattern. future by making your estate plans today. Anyone can leave a legacy as a member of Three new Directors were elected by the Board of Trustees this summer, following the The Foster Family’s largess has been the subject of many stories in these newsletters; appointment of Chris Merry as Treasurer last spring. The new Directors were selected by the the Isabelle R. Martin Society. Meaningful both Margaret and her brother Darwin, their children, spouses and grandchildren, donations can come from anyone, not just Nominating Committee based on areas of expertise required by the new Strategic Plan. have all been extraordinarily supportive of the Conservancy’s efforts to restore and the very wealthy, and in any size. Members Susan Herold has 35 years of banking experience with most of that time spent in the Human preserve the Graycliff Estate. of the Society, regardless of means, include charitable requests when they draw up a will. Resource field and, until recently, with Evans Bank. She is a graduate of Empire State College Following a family reunion in 2009, the extended family posed for a photo on the Lake with a B.S. in Business Administration with a Human Resource Concentration. Terrace of the Isabelle R. Martin House, emulating a 1929 photograph of their forebears Some Society members specify a certain gathered in the same location. Visitors can see both photographs in the living room of dollar amount to leave to Graycliff, and She is married with two children and two grandchildren and lives in the Village of Angola. others leave a percentage of their estate or a We welcome new Graycliff Directors Hobbies include watercolor painting, gardening and boating. the Isabelle R. Martin House. Chris Merry, Susan Herold and Michael Longo specific asset. In addition to leaving money, you can leave such things as personal Michael Longo, RA leads Uniland’s in-house team of architectural designers, interior designers The Foster family members are true “Graycliffians” and we are very grateful for their property, real estate, life insurance, and space planners. As Director of Planning & Design at Uniland, he is responsible for the continued support and encouragement. We hope to see Margaret, Betsy and Rick and their families, as well as and their families very soon retirement funds, stocks, bonds or part or development of building design concepts, coordination of site master plans and creation of Darwin, Hannelore, Denise all of your IRA. construction documents. With more than 20 years of architecture experience, Mr. Longo’s portfolio includes a wide range of projects in the commercial, healthcare and education The decision to tell us that you have “Just Wright for Kids” included the Graycliff Conservancy, Inc. in sectors. He played an integral role in the development and success of CrossPoint Business your will, and membership in the Isabelle Park, Airborne Business Parkway and the Avant Building. He received his Bachelor of R. Martin Society is up to you. But we’d Architecture degree from the University of Detroit. Popular Childrens like to know, so that we can express our attended St. Francis High School, Siena College, UB Law School and started his appreciation to you during your lifetime Jack Quinn III Program Plans to through Society events and offerings. career with the Erie County District Attorney’s Office. After a brief stint there, he ran for the NY Assembly in the fall of 2004. Successful in that election, he went on to serve the 146th Expand for The following are members of the Assembly district for 6 years. At the same time, he worked with the law firm of Shaw & Shaw Isabelle R. Martin Society: P.C. in Hamburg for 4 years. He currently works for Allergan, an eye care and medical device 2012 Season Carol and Jerry Wahlenmayer company located in Irvine, California, as Northeast Director of State Government Affairs. Russell Maxwell Mr. Quinn lives in Hamburg. We invite you to consider joining the On Saturday, August 13, 2011, Just Wright for Kids, a program of activities for kids Isabelle R. Martin Society, and join other They are already actively involved with several Graycliff projects. from 11 to 14 was led for the second consecutive year by Douglas Kohler. likeminded individuals in this important mission. Please call (716) 947-9217 for –Diane Chrisman, Board Secretary and Chair, Nominating Committee Kohler, the Chair of the History Department of Clarence Middle School, and the Erie County Historian, organized the hands-on workshop with activities related to Graycliff further details. A Special Note of Thanks and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in Buffalo. The Graycliff Conservancy appreciates the generous support of Fifteen youngsters participated in the session, held out of doors in view of the lake on Save America’s Treasurers, National Parks Service, US Department of the Interior, US Department of Transportation, the New York State Environmental Protection Fund, the lovely August morning. Working with Pentomino puzzles, Art Glass, and Pop Up Strategic Investment Program, Clean Water-Clean Air Act, Council on the Arts, architecture, participants toured Graycliff’s architecture, and drew their own designs. The County of Erie, Town of Evans, as well as significant funding from the Baird Foundation, Balbach Family Foundation, the Community Foundation for Greater At the conclusion of the program, each child was presented with a copy of the Buffalo, James H. Cummings Foundation, the East Hill Foundation, First Niagara Bank, children’s novel written by Blue Balliett and illustrated by Brett Helquist, a the Fund for the Arts, Gannett Foundation, Hooper Family Foundation, KeyBank, mystery focusing on a building by . Seymour H. Knox Foundation, Samuel H. Kress Foundation, M&T Bank, National Fuel, Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation League of New York, John R. Oishei Foundation, Dorothy Payne Fund, Thanks to the popularity of Just Wright for Kids, Graycliff plans to expand this Phyllis W. Pierce Charitable Trust, Saperston Family Foundation, Simple Gifts Fund, and the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation. program in 2012, once again in the capable hands of Doug Kohler. In addition to his distinguished career as an educator (kids just love him!) is also a long-time Thank you also to Premier Wine and Spirits and Liberty Liquors in Derby. Doug Kohler A tranquil Autumn day at Graycliff trustee of the Clarence Historical Society and the author of five books focusing on aspects of the history of Western New York. 8 9 2011 Graycliff Lecture Series Very Well Attended The Graycliff Conservancy presented a series of two lectures on the masters of Always Great Gift Ideas at The Pavilion Shop at Graycliff American architecture during the last few months, on architects Henry Hobson Richardson and Louis Sullivan. The first illustrated lecture, on April 21, was given by Dr. Robert Twombly, about Louis Sullivan; the second was given on September 15 by Professor Jeffrey Ochsner. Both lectures were completely sold out, and took place at the Burchfield-Penney Art Center at 1300 Elmwood Ave in Buffalo, NY. Richardson and Sullivan were both influential in the origin and development of the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright. Graycliff: Wright’s Natural House The Graycliff Conservancy is grateful for the support of the New York State Council on the Arts and Hodgson Russ LLP for their support of this series, as well as the collaborative assistance of the Burchfield-Penney Art Center, the H.H. Richardson The Graycliff Business Card Case Graycliff’s signature Diamond Window china to New – Graycliff Playing Cards Restoration Corporation and Martin Wachadlo in presenting these lectures. Grace Your Table…or make the Perfect Gift! Diane Schrenk, Chair, Graycliff Education Committee, organized the two events. To market to market for the perfect gift! For the holidays, birthdays, or any special day, Graycliff’s Pavilion Shop Renowned for his charm, as well as depth of knowledge of this subject matter, has just the thing. Either on-line or at Graycliff, you’ll find something enjoyable to be cherished. There are all Dr. Twombly discussed both the personal relationship between Sullivan and Wright, kinds of new things on hand, including a wide selection of silk scarves and ties, all with Wright designs; as well as the impact this relationship had on their architectural styles. Twombly is jewelry, of course; and for children, Architect Barbie, Legos, books and coloring books. Now featuring several new “Graycliff Exclusives”: a business card case, an ornament, two different posters (in a standard size for the author of such books as Frank Lloyd Wright: His Life and His Architecture; Louis framing) or a set of playing cards. Numerous books, including Sullivan: The Poetry of Architecture; Frank Lloyd Wright: Essential Texts; Frank Lloyd Wright: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Walter V. Davidson house: An Examination of a Buffalo Home and Its Cousins from Coast to Coast (144 pages, 154 illustrations) An interpretive biography; Louis Sullivan: The Public Papers; Frederick Law Olmsted: by Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A. www.GraycliffEstate.org Essential Texts and the forthcoming Henry Hobson Richardson: His Life and Work from New – Holiday Ornament W.H. Norton, among others. Dr. Twombly teaches architectural history at the City University of New York. Your membership is an investment in Graycliff — help us keep up the momentum! Dr. Robert Twombley and Patrick J. Mahoney Equally erudite and just as amiable, Jeffrey Ochsner, Ph.D., is an architect, architectural touring Graycliff in April 2011 historian, and professor at the University of Washington in Seattle. The author of the Members are vital to restoring and preserving Frank Lloyd Wright’s Graycliff Estate. seminal volume to H. H. Richardson: Complete Architectural Works, Ochsner is also the Members enjoy free admission for Graycliff tours, a 10% discount on gift shop purchases, a free subscription to our twice annual newsletter co-author of Distant Corner: Seattle Architects and the Legacy of H. H. Richardson, among and advance notice and/or free admission to special events. Best of all, you are engaging in an active role in saving a masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright. other books. Professor Ochsner has taught at the University of Washington since 1988, served as Chair of the Department of Architecture from 1996 to 2002, and became an BASIC MEMBERSHIP GRAYCLIFF’S “WRIGHT CIRCLE” OF LEADERSHIP Associate Dean in 2007. is a Fellow in the American Institute of Architects. Ochsner All Conservancy Members The Wright Circle is a dedicated group of individuals whose generous His illustrated lecture focused on the influences on and betweenRichardson, Sullivan enjoy the following benefits: contributions are essential to restoring and sustaining this historic landmark. and Wright. • 10% discount at Gift Shop Wright Circle benefits include All Basic Membership Benefits, plus… The Graycliff Conservancy was honored by the participation of two such eminent and • Subscription to the Graycliff • SUSTAINING — $250 charming scholars. • Conservancy newsletter • Invitation to Wright Circle receptions and events • Discounts on educational • • • Complimentary gift membership (individual or family) New Book on Frank Lloyd Wright’s • programs and lectures • 2 free admissions for special architectural tours, lectures or educational programs CONTRIBUTOR — $500 Walter V. Davidson House INDIVIDUAL — $35 • All of the above “Wright Circle” benefits, plus… Free admission (all year) for • A total of 4 free admissions for special architectural tours, lectures A new book entitled The Walter V. Davidson House An Examination of a Buffalo House 1 adult for Standard Tours. or educational programs and its Cousins from Coast to Coast, and Graycliff is the exclusive web distributor. FAMILY — $60 BENEFACTOR — $1,000 Written by Graycliff Board President the book focuses on Professor Jeffrey Ochsner FAIA Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A., Free admission (all year) • All of the above “Wright Circle Contributor” benefits, plus… Visiting the Graycliff Estate in September 2011 the Walter V. Davidson residence (1908) in Buffalo, NY created by Frank Lloyd Wright for 2 adults and 2 students • A private architectural tour for 6 (by reservation) with the Executive Director for a junior executive of the Larkin Company. for Standard Tours. • and/or Board President Designed as an intimate home for a family of moderate means, the residence features FRIEND — $75 YOUR MEMBERSHIP IS CRUCIAL TO SECURE GRAYCLIFF’S FUTURE extraordinary entertaining spaces within a middle class family’s budget. The house Your choice of free admission foreshadows the modern split level house and Wright’s ideas for homes of the common (all year) for 4 adults for NAME man in his utopian city called “.” Now privately owned (by former Graycliff Standard Tours or In-depth Tours for 2 adults. ADDRESS Board member Russell Maxwell) the stunning Prairie style home is rarely seen by the public (except, for example, when Maxwell generously welcomed guests as a benefit for Graycliff.) SUPPORTING — $100 CITY STATE ZIP The story continues with a detailed examination of the evolution of a series of buildings Your choice of free admission (all year) to 4 adults for Standard PHONE E-MAIL that are closely related to the house from New York to California to Florida. Tours/In-Depth Tours; or Master The abundantly illustrated volume includes many never-before seen photos, Architectural Tours for 2 adults. Please list my/our name as follows in any donor listing: including 154 color plates, architectural plans, historic photos and ephemera. SUPPORTING PLUS — $150 Please check box next to Membership Level Amount enclosed $ The 144 page book was published by the Monroe Fordham Regional History Center All SUPPORTING benefits plus a VISA MasterCard CHECK ENCLOSED Checks payable to: Graycliff Conservancy at Buffalo State College this autumn, and is available from the Graycliff Pavilion Shop complimentary gift membership or the on-line Pavilion Shop at GraycliffEstate.org for $34.95 or $31.46 (plus shipping) (individual or family) CARD # EXP. DATE Written by Graycliff Board President for Graycliff Conservancy members. Membership is tax deductible SIGNATURE Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A., the book focuses on to the extent provided by law. Thank You for Your Generous Support! the Walter V. Davidson residence (1908) in Buffalo If you are interested in more information about other gift opportunities at Graycliff, please call 716 - 947 - 9217 and ask to speak to the Executive Director. 10 11 1

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6472 Old Lake Shore Road P.O. Box 823 Derby, NY 14047

Discover Graycliff • “Located along the Seaway Trail, New York State’s only National Scenic Byway” National Register of Historical Places • New York State Landmark • Save America’s Treasures - Official Project

Holiday Yuletide Tours Enjoy the tranquility of Graycliff, a short drive but a world away from the stresses of the holidays. Graycliff was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright specifically for the relaxation of his patrons, Isabelle and Darwin Martin. Today, visitors can unwind with a leisurely tour, and enjoy Graycliff’s festive holiday décor amidst the magnificent architecture. Free hot mulled cider is served at the conclusion of tours – and during the Thanksgiving Weekend, too – and Graycliff’s Pavilion gift shop has lots of choices to fix any lapses by Santa or Hanukkah Harry. Weather permitting, our well trained docents will lead tours of the Frank Lloyd Wright - designed Graycliff Estate on Monday, December 26, Tuesday, December 27 and Wednesday, December 28, Thursday, December 29 and Friday, December 30, 2011. Reservations are required; please call 716-947-9217 or email graycliff@ verizon.net Please see our website at www.GraycliffEstate.org for more details. “Wright was inspired… Tours Available Year Round by Reservation 716-947-9217 Spectacular lakefront site…” Town & Country magazine • e-mail: [email protected] • Web: www.GraycliffEstate.org “Surprisingly Beautiful… • Martin House - Graycliff Joint Tour Packages also available…call for details I was very impressed” Call For Volunteers • Join us… and discover Graycliff! Dr. Neil Levine – Wright Scholar • Tour Guides and Chaperones - The Docent Committee provides training for interested volunteers. • Gift Shop - Discover the fun of working with people and the many items in our specialty shop • Green Teams - Maintaining the house, gardens and grounds • Special Events - Both onsite and off. Interested in helping? Please call us at 947-9217 or by e-mail at [email protected] 6472 OLD LAKE SHORE RD., DERBY, NY 20 mins. south of Buffalo on the cliffs of Lake Erie Funding support provided by M&T Bank and the County of Erie