Enjoy the Holidays at Graycliff

Yuletide Tours&

Pavilion Gift Shop

NEWSLETTER • FALL - WINTER EDITION • 2011

ESTABLISHED TO PRESERVE FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S GRAYCLIFF ESTATE

WRIGHT ON THE LAKE

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 John Siegel; Wendy Pierce (although Phyllis Pierce, the earliest donor to the landscape restoration was unable to attend and was much missed) Robert Irwin and Catherine Schweitzer from the Baird Foundation; Jean McKeown from the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo; NYS Assemblymen Dennis Gabryszak (143rd District), and Kevin Smardz (146th District), Francis Pordum, Supervisor of the Town of Evans; Tuona Batchelor, representing US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand; Daniel Myers, representing NYS Senator Mark Gristanti; Darren Kempner, representing Erie County Executive Chris Collins; Thomas Heltz from M&T Bank; and Jack Walsh III of the Western New York Foundation.

They celebrated work that has commenced and will be continuing for several months. After introductions and remarks by Patrick J. Mahoney, President of the Graycliff Conservancy, a viburnum doublefile shrub was ceremonially planted on the Maid’s Croquet Lawn. Guests 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 invited to a presentation by Pressley Associates on the specifics of the historic landscape restoration. 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 for producing construction documents and supervision of construction; all under the watchful eye of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Work will continue over the winter months and into the spring of 2012.

Historic Landscape Restoration at Graycliff Underway!

www.GraycliffEstate.org

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“Coming in this house would be something like putting on your hat

and going outdoors…”

— Frank Lloyd Wright to Darwin Martin, correspondence, 1926

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From The Lake Side: A Message From The Executive Director

What an exciting year it has been! Graycliff has made so much progress, and so many thrilling events have taken place…where even to begin? Here are just a few highlights: work is progressing on the restoration of the historic landscape; Phase V of restoration has commenced with the restoration of our first interior room thanks to the Hooper Family Foundation; and the National Trust for Historic Preservation Conference was a huge success

Meanwhile, behind the scenes, Board President Pat Mahoney keeps his hand on the tiller, guiding the Conservancy with a steady hand, while also serving as Chair of Graycliff’s Design Committee, overseeing restoration. Fellow Design Committee members Joe Blatz, Sandy Brant, Tom Carleton, John Conlin, Diane Schrenk, Sharon Osgood and Greg Bernas supervised restoration of the first interior room of the Isabelle R. Martin House, as well as the major restoration of Graycliff’s historic grounds and gardens.

Buildings and Grounds Chair Clifford Whitman worked closely with Green Team co-chairs Kathy and Dale Marriott and Green Team volunteers, and our grounds looked particularly lovely all season thanks to their efforts.

Barbara Harder and Jessica Hearst of Graycliff’s Development Committee chaired a wonderful second Graycliff Gala, raising both funds and enthusiasm with help from Diane Schrenk and volunteers Marion Schmidt, Phyllis Spears, Phyllis Weyer, Beth Bloomquist, Antoinette Forth, and Debbie Gorski. The Summer Solstice was enjoyed during a celebration for Graycliff funders on June 17th . Special thanks to Diane Schrenk and Sharon Osgood for their help with the organization of the festivities; and especially to our own Thomas Jambro, former Board member and Graycliff supporter in so many ways, large and small.

Diane Schrenk, chair of the Education Committee, worked closely with Education Committee members Pat Mahoney, Joe Blatz, June Crawford, Scott Schultz, Marion Schmidt and Marcy Workman to strengthen Standard and Master Docent training; offer children’s programs (see pg 9); send Wright (out) on the Road (see pg 10) and organize the annual Graycliff Lecture Series (see pg 10) with support from Hodgson Russ LTD and the New York State Council on the Arts.

Graycliff Treasurer Chris Merry, assisted by Finance Committee members Chuck LeFevre, Steve Musso and Christine Collins kept us financially on track. Another year – another “squeaky clean” audit, we are very proud to report.

The Pavilion Gift Shop has its own committee, too, co-chaired by Jessica Hearst and Marcy Workman, with help this season from

Martje Bryce Hague. This year, thanks to their help, we saw the development of several items created just for Graycliff...see for yourself on page 11.

The Governance Committee, chaired by Board Secretary Diane Chrisman and facilitated by members Mary Ann Kresse, Barbara Nevergold, Nancy Brock and Catherine Schweitzer, focused on the investiture of several new Board members, through the Nominating subcommittee. As a result, Chris Merry, Sue Herold, Jack Quinn and Mike Longo have all joined the Board in recent months. The Committee also provided leadership for a new Graycliff Strategic Plan, developed thanks to funding from the Fund for the Arts and building on the previous two Graycliff strategic plans.

Russ Maxwell, Chair of Governmental Relations, assisted by Sandra Brant, worked closely with elected officials for the betterment of Graycliff. Their efforts resulted in productive visits by several governmental leaders. Please see articles on pages 4.

Bill Wisniewski, chair of the Marketing Committee, produced a new brochure just in time for the conference of the National Trust for Historic Preservation...as well as the design of two lovely new posters for the gift shop – in addition to print ads near and far.

The Human Resources Committee, ably chaired by Barbara Seals Nevergold, with Diane Chrisman and Chris Merry, recommended that long-time part-time staffer Shannon Lyons become full-time. With the approval of the Board, Graycliff now has two full time staff members.

Volunteer Coordinators Carol Wahlenmayer and Phyllis Spears are truly Graycliff seraphim. Organizing volunteers for a myriad of tasks, ranging from the especially neat and tidy Housekeeping Crew, to volunteers for all kinds of special events, to volunteers to assist in the office and the Pavilion Gift Shop, to representing Graycliff at fairs and festivals...Carol and Phyllis do it all. They keep track of contact information, provide orientation for all volunteers, and always with a smile. Working closely with Green Team Chairs Kathy and Dale Marriott and Docent Coordinators Scott Schultz and Marion Schmidt, Carol and Phyllis are truly special and dedicated volunteers, because of whom Graycliff is flourishing.

A special thank you to former Board member Cheryl St. George. Cheryl stepped down as a Board member a couple of years ago, yet continues her dedication to Graycliff by organizing Graycliff’s Annual Spring Clean-up and our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. Thanks, Cheryl...we really appreciate and your efforts!

—Reine Hauser

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A.President

Diane SchrenkVice President

Diane Chrisman Recording Secretary

Chris MerryTreasurer

Gregory BernasJoseph A. BlatzSandra L. Brant

Charles A. LeFevre, ASAHarvey GarrettSusan J. Herold

Michael A. Longo, RASharon Osgood, Esq.

Jack Quinn IIICatherine F. Schweitzer

Barbara A. Seals Nevergold, Ph.D.Clifford E. Whitman

William A. Wisniewski

HONORARY BOARD MEMBERSThe Rev. Margaret R. Foster

Darwin Martin Foster

ADVISORSJason Aronoff

Carol A. BronnenkantJohn H. Conlin

Jack QuinanDouglas Swift

EXECUTIVE DIRECTORReine Hauser

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BURNISHING THE JEWELYour Financial Support is Vital!

Funding -already secured-- must be matched

with private contributionsfor Graycliff’s restoration

to continue apace.

Crucial Projects in need of Immediate Funding:

Misting Fire Protection

Restoring the Interior of theIsabelle R. Martin House

Strengthening On -Site Operations

Please contribute–all donations are tax-deductible

For information:716-947-9217

A Message From The President: Measurable Accomplishments and Planning Ahead for 2012

2011 was a Year of Much Progress

Another season is winding down at Graycliff and like our previous seasons we have some measurable accomplishments to report and enjoy.

The Family Sun Porch Regarding restoration the first interior work is nearly complete on the Family Sun Porch. The Hooper Family Foundation sponsored this project and BRD Construction was able to meet the goal of having the majority of the work done by Early October. The Sun Porch now sparkles with its restored colored stucco ceiling and wall finishes, painted wood moldings and a custom made rubber tile floor. Final work continues in installing the last of the seven sets of steel and glass doors that connect the sun porch from the fern room and reinstalling the historic Bradley and Hubbard manufactured lighting fixtures that were original to the space. A formal re-dedication of the space will follow early next season.

The Sun Porch was one of the highlights of the visits by the National Trust for Historic Preservation National Conference held here in mid-October.

The Caretaker’s Cottage In 1947, the Martin family sold the caretakers cottage (now known as 6482 Old Lake Shore Rd.) along with almost one half acre from the original estate. This portion of property was adjacent to the road and did not include frontage on Lake Erie. The cottage had been constructed in 1934 as a result of a long exchange between Frank Lloyd Wright and Darwin D. Martin. Martin thought the cottage should be built at the road, Wright preferred it be integrated into the low stone wall that defined the family compound near the entry into the property from the Dexter Rumsey Estate known then as ‘Faraway Farms’ (today known as ‘The Bluffs’). Martin misplaced the plans for the Wright designed cottage in 1929 and was reluctant to engage Wright to redesign the building when he was able to finance its construction in 1934. The cottage was built following many of the details used to construct the chauffeur’s house (now referred to as the Foster House). The cottage built was larger than Wright’s design but generally followed the organization of spaces Wright had suggested. It is currently thought that the builder at Graycliff, George Ingersoll, was responsible for the simple design which harmonized with the estate from a great distance.

In 1961, Jim and Patricia Czora purchased the cottage as their home. They raised their five children there and were close with the

current owners of Graycliff at the time, the Piarist Fathers. When the Piarist Fathers left Graycliff, the Czoras continued to be good neighbors to the young Graycliff Conservancy (Jim once used his truck to pull my deeply stuck sport utility out of the mud on one of the lawns!).

The cottage was listed on the National Register of Historic Places along with Graycliff shortly after the Conservancy was established. When Jim passed away (he had been preceded by his wife Patricia) he asked his children to try to sell their home to the Graycliff Conservancy in order that the original estate could be whole again.

After a grieving period, the five Czora children agreed to sell the cottage to Graycliff. It was a painful process to sell the family home and it is now the Conservancy’s challenge to steward this building into the future. Erie County supported this acquisition with a $40,000 grant of the $135,000 purchase price.

The front porch at the cottage was a natural gathering place for the Czoras and the Conservancy hopes they will still think of it as their porch and occasionally stop by and spend some time there.

Plans are still being developed on how to use the building, although a trial tour has already made us realize that there is a compelling story to be shared with the public there.

A Friend and Supporter Iney Wallens, a longtime radio personality originally from Buffalo, passed away in early October as well. Iney hosted a radio show broadcast on WHLD-AM and frequently featured segments on her show in the early years of the Conservancy. These featured segments resulted in widespread attention for the tours that helped secure the property.

Landscape Restoration The Landscape Restoration broke ground in the Fall and will continue in the Spring and Summer of 2012. There will be major restorations on much of the property with significant visual impact especially to the home grounds on the land side.

Financially, Graycliff has met continuing economic challenges with strong attendance and renewed public interest. We look forward to the restoration progress that will surely keep the Estate in the press and help integrate Conservancy events into daily life.

– Patrick J. Mahoney, AIA

Board President

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Congressman Brian Higgins, Conservancy President Patrick Mahoney, and Chris Fahey at Graycliff

Assemblyman Kevin Smardz with Executive Director Reine Hauser, July 2011

Elected Officials Enjoy Summer Tours of Graycliff Estate This summer saw visits by several elected officials, both new and returning. 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 State Assemblyman Kevin Smardz. It was a first visit for each and both were impressed with the amount of restoration completed and work that was in progress. It was a pleasure sharing the workings of our new fire suppression system with the Senator.

Representing Erie County, both County Executive Chris Collins and, the following week, Legislator Lynn Dixon dropped by for updates. Graycliff Board member Barbara Harder was on hand to show them the latest restoration work.

The Graycliff Conservancy is deeply gratified with the encouragement it receives from elected officials in all areas of our government. Some represent the district in which Graycliff is located; others recognize Graycliff’s importance as a regional attraction that is vital to the area-wide initiative for heritage and cultural tourism, such as US Senators Charles Schumer and Kristin Gilibrand; New York State Senator Mark Grisanti; members of the Erie County Legislature; and elected officials from the Town of Evans. We are very grateful for their support.

Noted Photographer Pedro Guerero Visits Graycliff At the end of August, noted photographer Pedro Guerrero toured Graycliff with his wife, Dixie Ledger. The tour, led by Graycliff President Patrick Mahoney, covered every aspect of Graycliff’s architecture. Born in 1917, Guerrero is noted for photographing the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, as well as sculptors Louise Nevelson and Alexander Calder. Guerero’s six-decade long career includes long-term relationships with each of these 20th century artists.

Guerrero’s images have appeared in countless books as well as his own publications, including his most recent work, Pedro E. Guerrero: A Photographer’s Journey, published in 2007 by Princeton Architectural Press, the 1994 Picturing Wright, an Album from Frank Lloyd 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.

For 20 years, Guerrero was the chief visual interpreter of Wright’s homes, producing the only visual record of Wright’s work as it appeared on completion. Emerging from a modest background, Guerrero’s first professional job at the age of 22 in 1939 was photographing Taliesin West, the Arizona home of Frank Lloyd Wright. Guerrero subsequently photographed houses belonging to such legendary artists and architects as Alexander Calder, Louise Nevelson, Marcel Breuer, John Huston, Philip Johnson, and Julia Child. A documentary on the life and work of Pedro Guerrero was completed in 2007.

NYS Senator Patrick Gallivan and Reine Hauser July 2011 at Graycliff

Photographer Pedro Guerrero tours Graycliff

Erie County Legislator Lynn Dixon and Reine Hauser August 2011 at Graycliff

National Trust for Historic Preservation ConferenceGraycliff working collaboratively with other organizations, resulting in a smashing success! What happens when thousands of preservationists arrive in Western New York? A great time! This autumn, the national conference of the National Trust for Historic Preservation was held in Buffalo and environs. Four years in the planning process, the conference attracted preservationists from throughout the US as well as internationally.

Graycliff was at the center of it all, with three different Field Sessions as part of the conference. Seven buses, which visited other sites in the area designed by Wright, as well as the Botanical Gardens, arrived at Graycliff over the course of five days of the conference. At the same time, conference attendees arrived individually for tours, which were scheduled hourly throughout the conference. Graycliff was deemed a “must-see” by conference organizers.

Conference attendees were uniformly affirmative in their comments about Graycliff, and the Conservancy’s efforts to restore the complex. In fact, one attendee, Douglas Weimer, an attorney with the Library of Congress, said “I had great expectations of Graycliff, and it far exceeded my expectations.”

In preparation for the conference, Graycliff volunteers outdid themselves with plantings, housekeeping, assisting in the gift shop and much more. Docents refreshed their knowledge of Graycliff, updating their information with the latest research.

Restoration continued with the Family Sun Porch, and a ground breaking for the restoration of Graycliff’s historic landscape. An original table cloth and napkins donated by the Foster Family was on display for the duration of the conference.

One of the highlights of the conference for Graycliff was working collaboratively with other area preservationists, organizations, and foundations. In partnership with Wright sites, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, Niagara University, and a group of nineteen cultural organizations, joint tours, a retail display and related projects were each crafted specifically for the conference. Perhaps best of all was working with the National Trust for Historic Preservation itself, whose professional staff was superbly organized and consistently helpful. Most of all, Graycliff congratulates Regional Chairs Catherine Schweitzer and Robert Skerker for their diligence and leadership which resulted in a smashing success.

Stanley Hooper inspecting the Family Sun Porch

Historic Landscape Restoration Ground Breaking Ceremony

Warren and Ami Greatbatch, US Congressman Brian Higgins, Mark Thomas, Director, Western District

NYS Parks Recreation and Historic Preservation

Michael Pratt from Watts Engineering rappelling down the cliff Soil Testing for landscape restoration Robert J.A. Irwin, Trustee, Baird Foundation at the landscape groundbreaking ceremony

The Beauty of Nature and the Genius of ArchitectureJean M. McKeown from the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, Town of Evans Supervisor

Fran Pordum and Darren Kempner, representative of County Executive Chris Collins

The Family Sun Porch: Restoration in progress, 2011

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A summer tour led by Jerry Wahlenmayer

Volunteerism at Graycliff – The Heartbeat & Muscle of the ConservancyIt has been a very active year for Graycliff’s volunteers. Many, many thanks to all of the docents and chaperones who have led tours, to the Green Team that has cared for our grounds, the Housekeeping Teams that have kept the buildings looking clean and tidy, 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 events during 2011.

Graycliff hosted hundreds of visitors during the national conference of the National Trust for Historic Preservation in October. Special thanks to each of the many volunteers who assisted before, during, and after the conference to ensure that visitors had a first-class experience at Graycliff.

The varied special events that Graycliff volunteers have assisted with this year, including setting up, working at, and cleaning up after include the Graycliff Gala held in March, the April spring cleanup, two lectures at the Burchfield-Penney Art Center, a summer solstice event for donors, the second annual Graycliff garage sale at the home of volunteer Loretta Worth, the Lewiston Art Festival, the Graycliff annual meeting, and the ground breaking ceremony for the historic landscape restoration.

We had a wonderful July day for the second annual Graycliff garage sale. Fifteen donors to the sale kept arriving at Loretta Worth’s home in Boston, which in turn meant sending her husband, Ray for more tables at the fire hall where he volunteers. One donor pirated donations from her basement while her husband, intent on keeping everything, played golf. Nancy McNaughton, Mary Kay DiPaolo, Sally Dondero, Nadine Tasevski, Arlene Morrow, 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. We are currently seeking a volunteer to host a 2012 garage sale.

On a mid-August weekend Graycliff set up with Buffalo Tours at the Lewiston Art Festival. By Sunday morning rain was teeming in Buffalo, but fortunately not at Lewiston, so our plucky volunteers made their way to the festival, distributing over 500 pieces of literature. Thanks to volunteers Dick and Phyllis O’Brien, Bill and Carol Wolfers, Margaret Santi, Lorraine Sandow, Wendy Duignan, June Crawford, Loretta Worth, Tammy Yekich, Phyllis Spears, and Carol Wahlenmayer who represented us at Lewiston this year.

Our housekeeping volunteers continue to keep Graycliff shining for visitors in spite of health-related losses we’ve suffered this year. Currently meeting on Friday mornings, the volunteers dust, vacuum, sweep and love Graycliff. In September both teams worked together for the first time, followed by a brunch. In October another joint session was held, followed by lunch at Simply Gourmet. Call Graycliff to join us. Next year we 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, Colleen Creighton, Lynette Domanski, Margaret Fanning, Kim Gryko, Jordan Hillman, Bryan Ingleman, Kathleen Leuthe, Gerald Malabre, Kathy Mehltretter, Maureen Meyers, Cam Morton, Judy Shuler, Charles Smith, Dawn Wadsworth, Teddy Watson, Lisa Williams, Bill and Carol Wolfers, and Matt Wrobel.

To all of Graycliff’s volunteers, new and old – thank you. We couldn’t do it without you! – Carol Wahlenmayer, Phyllis Spears,Volunteer Co-Chairs

The Graycliff Garage Sale 2011 Loretta Worth, Mary Kay DiPaolo and

a happy shopper

Volunteers Wendy Duignan and June Crawford at the Lewiston Art Festival

Carol Wahlenmayer at the Lewiston Art Festival

Dale and Kathy Marriott with Beth Bloomquist working in the Graycliff gardens

Festive Yuletide Tours for the HolidaysJoin 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.

Graycliff Estate Welcomes New DocentsGraycliff is pleased to salute the 2011 class of docents as they join the Graycliff family.

Maureen Meyer, Kathy Mehltretter, Loriann Conti and Cindy Trowman are now welcoming guests to Graycliff and introducing them to the lake home of the Martin family.

Scott Schultz, assisted by Marion Schmidt, began working with this season’s docent 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 about the history of the Martin Family. Margie Stehlik gave the new trainees a special tour of the Martin house that took them to areas that visitors generally do not see.

This summer, long-time Graycliff volunteer Marcy Workman joined Scott and Marion to create mid-season training for the first time. This session was designed as an expedited method of preparing docents to conduct a basic tour. Thanks to John Conlin, Patrick Mahoney, Anita Mitchell, Annegret Richards, and Scott Schultz (among others) a comprehensive Graycliff tour text provides a solid basis for training; it is updated annually as research is completed and new information becomes available. For docent training, we continue to refine the learning methods with which we can enrich the knowledge and confidence of our trainees.

We are looking forward to 2012 and a new training season. Already several people have expressed interest in becoming docents next season. Marcy and Marion will be arranging some informal gatherings for docents and docent-trainees over the winter months prior to the start of training.

– Marion Schmidt

Wright-on-the-Road: Graycliff Lecture Program AvailableWould your organization, church or social group like a free illustrated talk about Graycliff?

Wright-on-the-Road provides a one-hour program of striking illustrations and commentary that explains the history of Graycliff and the restoration process. Wright-on-the-Road talks are provided by experienced docents who are entertaining and knowledgeable about the history of Graycliff; this past year a dozen presentations were given to organizations in WNY. The programs are updated annually, can be tailored to meet the needs of your group’s specific interests and are easy to arrange. Special thanks to June Justice Crawford, Wendy Duignan, Phyllis Weyer, Richard and Priscilla O’Brien and the rest of the Wright-on-the-Road team for their willingness to go “on the Road” for Graycliff. If your group – church or community, alumni association, historical society, garden club or any other special interest –would like to schedule a Wright-on-the-Road presentation, please let us know by email at Graycliff@verizon.net or by phone at 716-947-9217.

New – Graycliff Window Decals!Across the country…and in foreign lands…Graycliff members and others are sporting a

new decal on the window of their automobiles. Designed by EZ Graphics, and underwritten by long-time volunteers (in fact, Green Team co-leaders) Kathy and Dale Marriott, the attractive ovals look great on any car. All new and renewing members are receiving a decal with their membership cards, so look for your decal when you renew. If you are not yet a member, here’s just another reason to join the Graycliff Conservancy.

Enjoy Yuletide Tours in December

Graycliff welcomes New Docent Maureen Meyers

Now shop online at the Pavilion Gift Shop

www.GraycliffEstate.org

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Major Donations

Margaret Foster Donates Additional China and Silver Box

Margaret Foster, the granddaughter of Darwin and Isabelle Martin, has donated a lovely silver box, which once stood on her grandmother’s dresser at Graycliff, in anticipation of the National Trust for Historic Preservation conference. Additionally, Foster has generously added to her donations of family china in recent years, by donating an additional thirteen dinner plates in the Spode Trophies pattern.

The Foster Family’s largess has been the subject of many stories in these newsletters; both Margaret and her brother Darwin, their children, spouses and grandchildren, have all been extraordinarily supportive of the Conservancy’s efforts to restore and preserve the Graycliff Estate.

Following a family reunion in 2009, the extended family posed for a photo on the Lake Terrace of the Isabelle R. Martin House, emulating a 1929 photograph of their forebears gathered in the same location. Visitors can see both photographs in the living room of the Isabelle R. Martin House.

The Foster family members are true “Graycliffians” and we are very grateful for their continued support and encouragement. We hope to see Margaret, Betsy and Rick and their families, as well as Darwin, Hannelore, Denise and their families very soon

“Just Wright for Kids”

Popular Childrens Program Plans to Expand for 2012 Season

On Saturday, August 13, 2011, Just Wright for Kids, a program of activities for kids from 11 to 14 was led for the second consecutive year by Douglas Kohler.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 and Frank Lloyd Wright architecture in Buffalo.

Fifteen youngsters participated in the session, held out of doors in view of the lake on the lovely August morning. Working with Pentomino puzzles, Art Glass, and Pop Up architecture, participants toured Graycliff’s architecture, and drew their own designs.

At the conclusion of the program, each child was presented with a copy of the children’s novel The Wright 3 written by Blue Balliett and illustrated by Brett Helquist, a mystery focusing on a building by Frank Lloyd Wright. Thanks to the popularity of Just Wright for Kids, Graycliff plans to expand this 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!) Doug Kohler is also a long-time trustee of the Clarence Historical Society and the author of five books focusing on aspects of the history of Western New York.

Graycliff Conservancy Announces New Board Members in September 2011Three new Directors were elected by the Board of Trustees this summer, following the appointment of Chris Merry as Treasurer last spring. The new Directors were selected by the Nominating Committee based on areas of expertise required by the new Strategic Plan.

Susan Herold has 35 years of banking experience with most of that time spent in the Human Resource field and, until recently, with Evans Bank. She is a graduate of Empire State College with a B.S. in Business Administration with a Human Resource Concentration.

She is married with two children and two grandchildren and lives in the Village of Angola. Hobbies include watercolor painting, gardening and boating.

Michael Longo, RA leads Uniland’s in-house team of architectural designers, interior designers and space planners. As Director of Planning & Design at Uniland, he is responsible for the development of building design concepts, coordination of site master plans and creation of 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 sectors. He played an integral role in the development and success of CrossPoint Business Park, Airborne Business Parkway and the Avant Building. He received his Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Detroit.

Jack Quinn III attended St. Francis High School, Siena College, UB Law School and started his 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 Assembly district for 6 years. At the same time, he worked with the law firm of Shaw & Shaw P.C. in Hamburg for 4 years. He currently works for Allergan, an eye care and medical device company located in Irvine, California, as Northeast Director of State Government Affairs. Mr. Quinn lives in Hamburg.

They are already actively involved with several Graycliff projects.

–Diane Chrisman, Board Secretary and Chair, Nominating Committee

A tranquil Autumn day at Graycliff

We welcome new Graycliff Directors Chris Merry, Susan Herold and Michael Longo

Our gifts can last beyond our lifetimes, and one way to do so is through Graycliff’s Isabelle R. Martin Society. As a member of the Society, your gift made through estate planning will allow you to join a select group of individuals who are committed to helping the Graycliff Conservancy to preserve and restore the Graycliff Estate through the years to come. Your contribution will provide an enduring legacy and will ensure Graycliff’s continued success. Please help assure our future by making your estate plans today.

Anyone can leave a legacy as a member of the Isabelle R. Martin Society. Meaningful donations can come from anyone, not just the very wealthy, and in any size. Members of the Society, regardless of means, include charitable requests when they draw up a will.

Some Society members specify a certain dollar amount to leave to Graycliff, and others leave a percentage of their estate or a specific asset. In addition to leaving money, you can leave such things as personal property, real estate, life insurance, retirement funds, stocks, bonds or part or all of your IRA.

The decision to tell us that you have included the Graycliff Conservancy, Inc. in your will, and membership in the Isabelle R. Martin Society is up to you. But we’d like to know, so that we can express our appreciation to you during your lifetime through Society events and offerings.

The following are members of the Isabelle R. Martin Society:

Carol and Jerry WahlenmayerRussell Maxwell

We invite you to consider joining the Isabelle R. Martin Society, and join other likeminded individuals in this important mission. Please call (716) 947-9217 for further details.

A Special Note of Thanks The Graycliff Conservancy appreciates the generous support of

Save America’s Treasurers, National Parks Service, US Department of the Interior, US Department of Transportation, the New York State Environmental Protection Fund,

Strategic Investment Program, Clean Water-Clean Air Act, Council on the Arts, The County of Erie, Town of Evans, as well as significant funding from the

Baird Foundation, Balbach Family Foundation, the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, James H. Cummings Foundation, the East Hill Foundation, First Niagara Bank,

the Fund for the Arts, Gannett Foundation, Hooper Family Foundation, KeyBank, Seymour H. Knox Foundation, Samuel H. Kress Foundation, M&T Bank, National Fuel, Preservation League of New York, John R. Oishei Foundation, Dorothy Payne Fund,

Phyllis W. Pierce Charitable Trust, Saperston Family Foundation, Simple Gifts Fund, and the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation.

Thank you also to Premier Wine and Spirits and Liberty Liquors in Derby.

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2011 Graycliff Lecture Series Very Well AttendedThe Graycliff Conservancy presented a series of two lectures on the masters of 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. 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 Restoration Corporation and Martin Wachadlo in presenting these lectures. Diane Schrenk, Chair, Graycliff Education Committee, organized the two events.

Renowned for his charm, as well as depth of knowledge of this subject matter, Dr. Twombly discussed both the personal relationship between Sullivan and Wright, as well as the impact this relationship had on their architectural styles. Twombly is the author of such books as Frank Lloyd Wright: His Life and His Architecture; Louis Sullivan: The Poetry of Architecture; Frank Lloyd Wright: Essential Texts; Frank Lloyd Wright: An interpretive biography; Louis Sullivan: The Public Papers; Frederick Law Olmsted: Essential Texts and the forthcoming Henry Hobson Richardson: His Life and Work from W.H. Norton, among others. Dr. Twombly teaches architectural history at the City University of New York.

Equally erudite and just as amiable, Jeffrey Ochsner, Ph.D., is an architect, architectural historian, and professor at the University of Washington in Seattle. The author of the seminal volume to H. H. Richardson: Complete Architectural Works, Ochsner is also the co-author of Distant Corner: Seattle Architects and the Legacy of H. H. Richardson, among 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 Associate Dean in 2007. Ochsner is a Fellow in the American Institute of Architects. His illustrated lecture focused on the influences on and between Richardson, Sullivan and Wright.The Graycliff Conservancy was honored by the participation of two such eminent and charming scholars.

New Book on Frank Lloyd Wright’s Walter V. Davidson House A new book entitled The Walter V. Davidson House An Examination of a Buffalo House and its Cousins from Coast to Coast, and Graycliff is the exclusive web distributor. Written by Graycliff Board President Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A., the book focuses on the Walter V. Davidson residence (1908) in Buffalo, NY created by Frank Lloyd Wright for a junior executive of the Larkin Company.

Designed as an intimate home for a family of moderate means, the residence features extraordinary entertaining spaces within a middle class family’s budget. The house foreshadows the modern split level house and Wright’s ideas for homes of the common man in his utopian city called “Broadacre City.” Now privately owned (by former Graycliff 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.) The story continues with a detailed examination of the evolution of a series of buildings that are closely related to the house from New York to California to Florida.

The abundantly illustrated volume includes many never-before seen photos, including 154 color plates, architectural plans, historic photos and ephemera. The 144 page book was published by the Monroe Fordham Regional History Center at Buffalo State College this autumn, and is available from the Graycliff Pavilion Shop or the on-line Pavilion Shop at GraycliffEstate.org for $34.95 or $31.46 (plus shipping) for Graycliff Conservancy members.

Dr. Robert Twombley and Patrick J. Mahoney touring Graycliff in April 2011

Professor Jeffrey Ochsner FAIA Visiting the Graycliff Estate in September 2011

Written by Graycliff Board President Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A., the book focuses on

the Walter V. Davidson residence (1908) in Buffalo

Graycliff: Wright’s Natural House

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Membership is tax deductibleto the extent provided by law.

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.

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YOUR MEMBERSHIP IS CRUCIAL TO SECURE GRAYCLIFF’S FUTURE

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BASIC MEMBERSHIPAll Conservancy Membersenjoy the following benefits:

• 10% discount at Gift Shop

• Subscription to the Graycliff •• Conservancy newsletter

• Discounts on educational • •• programs and lectures

GRAYCLIFF’S “WRIGHT CIRCLE” OF LEADERSHIPThe Wright Circle is a dedicated group of individuals whose generouscontributions are essential to restoring and sustaining this historic landmark.

Wright Circle benefits include All Basic Membership Benefits, plus…SUSTAINING — $250• Invitation to Wright Circle receptions and events• Complimentary gift membership (individual or family)• 2 free admissions for special architectural tours, lectures or educational programs

CONTRIBUTOR — $500• All of the above “Wright Circle” benefits, plus…• A total of 4 free admissions for special architectural tours, lectures or educational programs

BENEFACTOR — $1,000• All of the above “Wright Circle Contributor” benefits, plus…• A private architectural tour for 6 (by reservation) with the Executive Director• and/or Board President

EXP. DATE

INDIVIDUAL — $35Free admission (all year) for1 adult for Standard Tours.

FAMILY — $60Free admission (all year)for 2 adults and 2 studentsfor Standard Tours.

FRIEND — $75Your choice of free admission(all year) for 4 adults forStandard Tours or In-depthTours for 2 adults.

SUPPORTING — $100Your choice of free admission(all year) to 4 adults for StandardTours/In-Depth Tours; or MasterArchitectural Tours for 2 adults.

SUPPORTING PLUS — $150All SUPPORTING benefits plus acomplimentary gift membership (individual or family)

Your membership is an investment in Graycliff — help us keep up the momentum! Members are vital to restoring and preserving Frank Lloyd Wright’s Graycliff Estate.

Members enjoy free admission for Graycliff tours, a 10% discount on gift shop purchases, a free subscription to our twice annual newsletterand 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.

Always Great Gift Ideas at The Pavilion Shop at Graycliff

The Graycliff Business Card Case

New – Holiday Ornament

Graycliff’s signature Diamond Window china toGrace Your Table…or make the Perfect Gift!

New – Graycliff Playing Cards

To market to market for the perfect gift! For the holidays, birthdays, or any special day, Graycliff’s Pavilion Shop has just the thing. Either on-line or at Graycliff, you’ll find something enjoyable to be cherished. There are all kinds of new things on hand, including a wide selection of silk scarves and ties, all with Wright designs; 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 framing) or a set of playing cards. Numerous books, including 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) by Patrick J. Mahoney, A.I.A. www.GraycliffEstate.org

6472 OLD LAKE SHORE RD., DERBY, NY20 mins. south of Buffalo on the cliffs of Lake Erie

“Surprisingly Beautiful…I was very impressed”

Dr. Neil Levine – Wright Scholar

“Wright was inspired…Spectacular lakefront site…”

Town & Country magazine

Tours Available Year Round by Reservation 716-947-9217• e-mail: graycliff@verizon.net • Web: www.GraycliffEstate.org • Martin House - Graycliff Joint Tour Packages also available…call for details

Call For Volunteers • Join us… and discover Graycliff! • 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 graycliff@verizon.net

Funding support provided by M&T Bank and the County of Erie

Holiday Yuletide ToursEnjoy 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.

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

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

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