Enjoy the Holidays Wright on the Lake

Yuletide Tours and Shopping at the Pavilion

Gift Shop

NEWSLETTER • FALL - WINTER EDITION • 2012

ESTABLISHED TO PRESERVE FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT’S GRAYCLIFF ESTATE

WRIGHT ON THE LAKE

“Any Frank Lloyd Wright pilgrimage is incomplete without a visit to Derby to see his wonderfully serene Graycliff. The meticulous restoration reveals just how important this

property is. Graycliff serves visually as an architectural bridge between the Darwin Martin House and Fallingwater. The grass-roots movement to save Graycliff for the public should be

used as a model for why it’s important to rescue and preserve endangered buildings worldwide -- and how to successfully do it!”

Daniel Billy, Cultural Editor • Bloomberg News

See full story on page 5

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Graycliff EstateReceives National & International Media Acclaimas Important Architectural Destination Location

www.GraycliffEstate.org

Phot

o: L

arry

Cab

ado

CR

EAT

IVE

DES

IGN

CO

UR

TES

Y EZ

GR

APH

ICS

• P

RIN

TIN

G C

OU

RT

ESY

EDW

. A H

ABE

RM

EHL

CO

.

THE JEWEL oN THE LAkE

2

From The Lake Side: A Message From The Executive Director

It’s been another record-setting season so far at Graycliff. Visitorship continues to climb, with an increase in group visits, and an ever broader array of national and international visitors. At the same time, our largest class ever of docents was trained; and new volunteers joined the Green Team and the Special Events Team. This season, Graycliff has made more progress, has inaugurated new tours and programs, and garnered national and international press attention. Here are just a few highlights: a celebration of the completion of the interior of the Family Sun Porch was held; Martin family members donated more original furnishings; Insiders tour and Luncheon, Wright on the Water and All Wright, All Day Tours were introduced; and Graycliff was profiled in the Toronto Globe and Mail, Bloomberg News, and TCT Television.

Meanwhile, behind the scenes, Board President Pat Mahoney continued his leadership 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 coordinated completion of the restoration of the first interior room of the Isabelle R. Martin House (see story page 5), 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 despite the extreme drought conditions, our grounds looked lovely all season thanks to their herculean efforts (see story page 13)

Sharon Osgood was the Chair of a wonderful third Graycliff Gala (page 6), raising both funds and enthusiasm with help from Board members Diane Schrenk, Christopher Merry, Greg Bernas, Patrick J. Mahoney, Sue Herold and William Wisniewski, as well as volunteers Edla Collora, Jerry Puma, James Cornell, Antoinette Forth Sandra Starks and Sharon Metz.

The Summer Solstice was celebrated on the lovely evening of June 20th by Graycliff volunteers, as the setting sun cascaded through the windows of the Isabelle R. Martin House.

Diane Schrenk, Chair of the Education Committee, with help from committee members, developed the new Insiders Tour & Luncheon; offered children’s programs (see page 4); sent Wright (out) on the Road and organized the annual Graycliff Lecture Series (see page 13) with support from the New York State Council on the Arts.

Meanwhile, Docent Co-Chairs Marion Schmidt and Marcy Workman strengthened Docent Training, and trained the largest class of docents-in-training ever! They were assisted by Irene Cuddihy, Loretta Worth and Mary Wilde, who supervised certification tours by docents-in-training. An enormous thank you is due to all Graycliff docents, both returning and new. With visitation increasing, the number of tours led by our marvelous docents also increased. At the same time, visitors consistently noted that their tour of Graycliff was the best tour they had ever taken, anywhere. As a recent visitor noted on the Tripadvisor website: “every volunteer was exceptionally knowledgeable, helpful, and fun.” Special mention should also be made of returning docents Kathy Mehltretter, Jill Barrile, Jerry Wahlenmayer, Jim Beardsley and Beverly Nenno, as well as new docents Cindy Coney-Trowman,

George Struebel, Joanne Barba and Ben & Karen Little, who each gave a remarkable number of tours.

Graycliff Treasurer Chris Merry, assisted by Finance Committee members Chuck LeFevre, Steve Musso and Christine Collins kept us financially on track; with the annual audit underway and plans moving forward to continue to strengthen financial controls.

The Pavilion Gift Shop has a new coordinator, Ryan Gravell, and with Committee member Marcy Workman introduced new Graycliff products, as well as a wide assortment of items related to Frank Lloyd Wright and the Arts & Crafts movement. With many available for purchase on the Graycliff website, you can now shop right from home.

The Governance Committee, chaired by Diane Chrisman and facilitated by members Mary Ann Kresse, Barbara Nevergold, Nancy Brock and Catherine Schweitzer, was one of the most active committees. It oversaw the nomination of several new Board members, through the Nominating Sub Committee. As a result, five new community leaders have joined the Board: Jim Charlier, Ben Christie, Kevin Hoffman, Sharon Metz and Terry Robinson.

Governmental Affairs Committee member Sandra Brant helped arrange visits by several governmental leaders. Please see article on page 4.

Bill Wisniewski, chair of the Marketing Committee, produced wonderful flyers and posters galore, in addition to print ads near and far. Two new Board members, Jim Charlier and Sharon Metz have joined the committee, and plans are underway to create a new Marketing Plan to better integrate print, digital and broadcast.

The Human Resources Committee, ably Chaired by Barbara Seals Nevergold, with Diane Chrisman, Sue Herold, and Chris Merry are gearing up for the creation of a new Human Resources plan.

Volunteer Team Leaders Carol Wahlenmayer and Phyllis Spears are truly among are most dedicated Graycliffians. Organizing volunteers for a myriad of tasks, ranging from the invaluable 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, and Graycliff volunteers… did it all this year. Carol and Phyllis track information, provide orientation for all volunteers, disseminate information, coordinate and schedule volunteers for all kinds of tasks, all the while providing wise counsel and hands-on help. With Green Team Leaders Kathy and Dale Marriott and Docent Team Leaders Marion Schultz and Marcy Workman, each is an especially dedicated volunteer, and a major part of Graycliff’s success. It’s with regret that we note that Carol Wahlenmayer is stepping down as Volunteer Co-Chair, and as Housekeeping Team leader—although fortunately not as a docent. Carol has been doing it all, and her commitment is without parallel. This coming year, Kathy Mehltretter will join Phyllis Spears as Co-Chair of Volunteers, while Linda Weyand will coordinate the Housekeeping Team.

A heartfelt thank you to former Board member Cheryl St. George. Although Cheryl stepped down as a Board member a couple of years ago, yet she continues to organize Graycliff’s Annual Spring Clean-up and our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner. Thanks, Cheryl—they are two of the most enjoyable activities at Graycliff.

—Reine Hauser

“Behind the Scenes” The 2012 Season

3

A Message From The President: Reflecting Back and Looking Forward

Graycliff Fern Room with shelves at right. Richard Lloyd Jones residence shelves. Shelves to be reproduced.

The 2012 season at Graycliff has been successful to date. Our attendance has been good, surely aided by many dry days throughout the summer. Our docents continue to be diligent and have inspired the many guests to consider membership in the organization. Membership continues to be the lifeblood that feeds the continuing needs of the estate and confirms to potential funders that the project deserves their support.

Graycliff ‘s committees have been active this year as well. Many thanks go to our sponsors and the Gala committee who organized a fun and content packed evening affair with our third gala in as many years. Committee chair Sharon Osgood presided over the fundraiser which exceeded each of the previous two years events. It was a pleasure to be involved with such a vibrant bunch of folks at both the many committee meetings and the event itself. I found it particularly thrilling when the llama heard an unfamiliar voice and went for an unscheduled trot through the lobby of the Larkin Center of Commerce (aka 701 Seneca). Our Education committee has produced a full slate of four lectures this season that have given those that attended insight into the complex relationships of the estate to the world of design. Board Vice President Diane Schrenk has worked diligently to ensure the lecture series and other educational events have been a success. An exciting lecture series has been planned for next year, if the funding can be secured.

This season has turned out to be mostly a planning year for restoration. Design work is nearing completion for the project in the Living and Dining rooms that will remove the non-original concrete precast floor, install the fire protection system and restore the cypress planks that were there during the Martin’s time at Graycliff. During the design process Dirk Schneider, our architect with Chaintreuil, Jensen and Stark made some interesting discoveries while consulting with Wright expert and Chicago architect, John Eifler, FAIA. I shall never forget John’s excitement at first visiting the Graycliff basement with all the secrets it shared. While discussing the unusual Wright designed furniture placements in archival photographs, Dirk realized that the wooden floor grates indicating the under floor radiators were actually visible in the old photographs. Dirk’s discovery has given a great degree of certainty as to how these long missing and unusual heating systems functioned. The under floor heating system would be redesigned by Wright for use in concrete floored homes without basements in the early 1930’s. Graycliff is expecting approval from The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to bid this project for spring construction early in 2013.

The long awaited landscape restoration is still waiting for its major construction. Bids were received on the bulk of the project in late August but New York State has yet to approve the bids. We hope for a June 2013 completion date. The core of the work will be focused around the ornamental circle where non historic trees will be removed and a concrete lined pond will be installed. The pond will be more historically accurate to the shape and size as designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and the plantings and stonework will accurately depict what could be observed from planting plans and historic photographs. Filtration equipment for the pond will be located in the basement of the house. The vehicular drives will be returned to a material that matches the historic iron oxide based gravel originally used but will be bonded to allow plowing in winter as well as

permeability. On the cliff face the bridge accessing the original stair tower will be dismantled for future reinstallation and the tower reinforced to weather until the bridge can be returned. During the design phase of the restoration it was determined that at the point the bridge anchored to shore and immediately to its east there had been up to twelve feet of cliff displaced through either erosion or the well meaning, but misguided attempts by the Piarist Fathers to correct drainage issues. Around 1983 a large section of the cliff bench was jack hammered off in an effort to ease ponding water. This stone and concrete section of bench rests on the beach today under several feet of fallen shale.

The good news is there’s no imminent danger of the cliff collapsing. The area in question is termed “The Esplanade” by Wright and was conceived as one of the outdoor rooms of the estate. On a recent tour, I escorted a group of visitors to the esplanade on what was a very windy day. Although the winds were in full force, at the edge of the cliff once in the Esplanade everyone noted that the recessed configuration of this outdoor room shielded the group from wind. The displacement of the esplanades edge can be corrected but it will be an expensive process estimated to cost up to 1.5 million in today’s dollars.

Furnishing the house has two major developments to report. The first is that a grant has been received from the National Trust for Historic Preservation to partially fund a Historic Furnishings Report. This report will act as the blueprint to complete the interiors at Graycliff just as the Historic Structures Report guided the physical restoration of the buildings.

The second report relates to a bequest by Marion L. Zimmerman in the amount of $10,000. The bequest is to be used to recreate a set of free standing waist high cypress shelves designed by Frank Lloyd Wright that originally occupied the west side of the Living room at its transition to the Fern room. The freestanding shelves featured a cantilever in two directions and defined both spaces. Margaret Foster, granddaughter of Darwin and Isabelle Martin recalled a number of years ago that the family also used the shelves to store games including the John Lloyd Wright designed building block set she donated to Graycliff. Freestanding shelves were unusual in Wright’s work and these are very similar to a set designed for Wright’s cousin Richard Lloyd Jones in his house in Tulsa. This bequest has been administered by Marion’s longtime friend and colleague, Larkin collector Jerry Puma. We thank Jerry for his commitment to Graycliff and we will honor Marion with a permanent plaque as part of the reproduction. This is one of the most significant pieces Wright created at Graycliff and work continues to perfect the fabrication drawings for this large piece as well as determine who is best able to produce the exact reproduction.

As my term as board president expires at the end of this year, I reflect upon the dedicated efforts of our members and volunteers to sustain Graycliff through what has been a difficult economic and cultural challenge. They have done so with a flair that has made it a joy to participate in and it is that joy that attracts so many new folks to join the party. I hope to see you at the site for one of our special winter tours. – Patrick J. Mahoney, AIA, Conservancy Board President

4

Elected officials Enjoy Tours of EstateSeveral elected officials visited Graycliff this season, and each voiced support and encouragement to the Conservancy’s preservation effort.Town of Evans Supervisor Keith Dash arrived with his delightful wife Kris, to celebrate their wedding anniversary at Graycliff. Graycliff is located in the Town of Evans, and town officials and town residents alike have been very supportive of Graycliff’s mission. Due to pressing matters in Washington, D.C., Congressman Brian Higgins was unable to visit this summer (although he did attend the Graycliff Gala) but sent excellent representatives: his wife Mary, and her cousins the O’Sullivans. In a special tour led by Graycliff President Patrick Mahoney, they learned of the significance of Graycliff’s architecture, and thoroughly explored the Estate.Thanks to the suggestion of his lovely wife Erin, NYS Assemblyman Michael Kearns made his inaugural visit to Graycliff. With a background in historic preservation himself, Kearns was impressed with the strides the Conservancy has made with preservation. Erin proved herself quite knowledgeable about Wright’s architecture, and enhanced her understanding with the tour.Erie County Legislator John Mills visited Graycliff for a tour with Graycliff Board members Sandra Brant and Diane Chrisman; he was very impressed with tourism efforts.

New: Graycliff “Insider’s Tour” and LuncheonThe Graycliff Conservancy had its very first “Insider’s Tour” and Luncheon on Wednesday, October 10th, 2012. This special tour and luncheon was hosted by Reine Hauser, Graycliff Executive Director. The tour included stories about Frank Lloyd Wright & the Martin family, as well as insider information about Conservancy restoration efforts. Following the tour, guests relaxed in the Isabelle R. Martin House, enjoyed a glass of wine and a casual, picnic-style luncheon while overlooking the lake. Insiders Tours & Luncheons will be offered only once a month during spring, summer and autumn, and space is available for only a select few each month, for those over age 21. If you are interested in taking part in the coming year, please plan to reserve early. Please check our website for dates. Pre-paid reservations are required; please call for reservations at 716/947-9217 or email Graycliff@verizon.net Admission for this very special, limited tour is $60 for the general public; or $55 for Conservancy members.

Studebakers: Vintage Autos at GraycliffThe Iroquois Chapter of the Studebaker Drivers Club brought their vintage automobiles out for a drive to Graycliff…what a treat. And not just so that Graycliffians and visitors alike could all enjoy their autos…what a wonderful group of people! Enthusiastic about “Graycliff following their tour of the Estate, several members of the Chapter immediately became members of the Conservancy. As reported by Paul Bishop in their newsletter, Graycliff is truly a local treasure that deserves a complete restoration. Many of our members on the tour appreciated the ongoing efforts of the Graycliff Conservancy and demonstrated it by joining their ranks. We are delighted that Studebaker Drivers are part of Graycliff’s ‘racing team’.” Special thanks to Steve Mangione for sharing his photos of that exciting day.

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

Save America’s Treasures, 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, Estate of Marion Zimmerman and the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation.

Thank you also to Premier Wine and Spirits and Liberty Liquors in Derby. Special Thanks to Carl Schmitter for Graycliff photography.

Studebaker Drivers Club at Graycliff

Town of Evans Supervisor Keith Dash and his wife Kris with Sandy Brant

Erie County Legislator John Mills with Sandra Brant and Diane Chrisman

Pat Mahoney discussing the Porte Cochere with Mary Higgins and guests on a summer tour

5

Family Sun Porch before restoration

Family Sun Porch after restoration

Graycliff in the News…Nationally and Internationally!Graycliff has been in the news---nationally and internationally---in recent weeks. Bloomberg News/Business Week featured Graycliff prominently in a story about Wright buildings in Buffalo, in early October. Daniel Billy, the Bloomberg cultural editor, said on the day of publication: “Any Frank Lloyd Wright pilgrimage is incomplete without a visit to Derby to see his wonderfully serene Graycliff. The meticulous restoration reveals just how important this property is. Graycliff serves visually as an architectural bridge between the Darwin Martin House and Fallingwater. The grass-roots movement to save Graycliff for the public should be used as a model for why it’s important to rescue and preserve endangered buildings worldwide -- and how to successfully do it!” You can read his story at www.bloomberg.com/news/2012-10-02/rescued-wright-house-for-soap-king-crowns-buffalo-rebirth.html

In September, the TCT Television, a national network, sent two camera crews to Graycliff, accompanied by the President of the station herself, Julie Nolan, who flew in from Detroit. Also on hand for the taping was Robert Reed, station manager for their local affiliate, WNYB-TV. TCT reaches over 125 million homes in the United States, Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, India, and the Philippines – 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

August saw a major…and very flattering…article in the Toronto Globe and Mail, a nationally distributed Canadian newspaper based in Toronto and printed in six cities across the country. With a weekly readership of approximately 1 million, it is Canada’s largest-circulation national newspaper. The article, written by Dave LeBlanc, was entitled “Seeing Right Through Frank Lloyd Wright’s Graycliff.” The story, which filled a full half page of the paper, and included a large color photograph, was extremely well researched and full of detail. LeBlanc concluded his article with “ A wonderful example of Wright’s Organic architecture, this jewel on the lake is also a shining example of a happy collaboration between architect and client.” This story was part of several…and the first to be published on the Wright sites in Buffalo…in LeBlanc’s series of articles as The Architourist. You can read the complete article at www.theglobeandmail.com/life/home-and-garden/architecture/frank-lloyd-wrights-forgotten-gem---in-buffalo/article4482806/

Ribbon Cutting for Family Sun PorchIn late April, the restoration of the Family Sun Porch made its formal debut. One hand for the celebratory ribbon cutting were Stanley Hooper, his daughter Linda Ward, son-in-law Doug Ward and son Keith as well as former Board member Thomas Jambro, Graycliff Board members Patrick Mahoney, Diane Schrenk, Diane Chrisman, Joseph Blatz, Charles LeFevre, Cliff Whitman, among many others, including Graycliff volunteers. The Hooper Family Foundation generously underwrote this restoration project, the first interior room of the Isabelle R. Martin House. It included restoration of the walls, ceiling, and light fixtures; and installation of rubber floor tiles as were in place originally when the Martin family was in residence. A donation of a library table original to the room last year led the Hooper Family Foundation to this even greater act of generosity. The festive occasion included refreshments and a lovely late afternoon at the lake.

Patrick Mahoney and Stanley Hooper at Ribbon Cutting

Graycliff received national and international media acclaim

Phot

o: C

arl S

chm

itter

6

With a little help from our friends – no – a LOT of help from our friends, the Gala this year brought in over $45,000, the largest amount ever. On top of the financial success, we had fun.

Perhaps the highlight of the evening was the cameo appearance of “Ttika,” a stately, serene llama brought by his owners, Michael and Jan Sheridan of Hemstreet Farms, who were donating a “Llama Trek for Twelve” to the auction. Attendees swarmed Ttika to pose with him for photos.

Our host emcee from WBEN, Steve Cichon, provided a lively introduction to the award honorees, Burton Notarius (Community Contributor), Forest Lawn (Organization), M&T Bank (Corporate), John R. Oishei Foundation (Benefactor), E.O. Smith, Ph.D. and Director of the Monroe Fordham Regional History Center at SUNY Buffalo (Lester Rickard Memorial Professional) and W. Stanley Hooper, of the Hooper Family Foundation (Individual Benefactor). All the awardees have benefitted Graycliff and the Community greatly.

The eleven items offered in the live auction elicited excited bidding. The “other Graycliff,” a five star hotel and restaurant in Nassau, for a second year donated a four night stay, which was won by Faisal Merani, himself a hotel owner who offered two lots of an overnight and romantic dinner in his Niagara Falls, Canada boutique hotel, the Sterling Inn. Antoinette Forth won “High Tea for Twelve” at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fontana Boathouse on the Niagara River. Jim Cornell (who with his partners, Peter Krog and Gordon Reger, contributed the amazingly decorated industrial space at the Larkin Center of Commerce for the gala), was himself the successful bidder for the behind the scenes tour and wine and cheese reception for 30 at Forest Lawn with its highly knowledgeable and hilariously entertaining President, Joe Dispenza.

Two events at major Frank Lloyd Wright homes were aggressively bid on. Russell Maxwell offered his privately owned Davidson House for an evening reception with himself and Graycliff President, Patrick Mahoney, who autographed and gave to the 15 guests of Phyllis Spears a copy of his recently published book about the house.

Michael and Sandy Starks were the much envied winners of an overnight stay at the Gardener’s Cottage, which is part of the Martin House Complex. Mary Roberts, Executive Director of the Martin House, engineered this rare experience.

Greg and Barbara Bernas were the lucky bidders for a Shaw Theater production and overnight stay at one of the five Vintage Hotels in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Stanley Hooper and his family will enjoy dinner and sailing on Tom Jambro’s beautiful yacht, The Harriet.

The largest bid of the evening, after extremely competitive bidding, was made by Craig Slater on behalf of the law firm, Harter, Secrest and Emery. Craig’s winning bid of $2,500 bought him a seven course Tuscan dinner for twelve prepared by Sharon Osgood at her Grand Island home. Astonishingly, Andy and Helen Cappuccino and Dave and Madeline Lillie, hearing about Craig’s success, persuaded Sharon to do a second dinner for twelve in consideration of their also contributing $2,500 to Graycliff.

Much more excitement and funds were generated by the raffle of a collection of Larkin Soap Company items, the 15 silent auction lots and the numerous offerings of the basket auction.

But none of the fun and excitement of the Gala could have occurred without the support of the sponsors. They included M&T Bank, Entercom, WBEN, Larkin Center of Commerce, the Krog Corp., Gregory Photiadis, Esq., Sharon Osgood, Esq., Seneca Larkin Holdings, LLC, Marsh Ziller Attorneys, Sandhill Investment Management, Harter Secrest and Emery Attorneys, National Fuel, Diane Chrisman, Kromac Design, Diane and Frederick Schrenk, Industrial Power and Lighting Corp., Chaintreuil/Jensen/Stark Architects, LLP, Uniland Development Company, The Premier Group, North American Breweries and the Brian Garman Galleries.

Add to these names those of all the donors of in-kind items, donors of baskets and silent auction items and the generous attendees of the Gala, and this article could take up the entire newsletter!

Graycliff is particularly grateful to the Gala committee who devoted a tremendous amount of time, energy and talent to create the successful and fun event. They include Gregory Bernas, Diane Chrisman, Edla Collora, James Cornell, Antoinette Forth, Jessica Hearst, Susan Herald, Patrick Mahoney, Christopher Merry, Sharon Metz, Jerry Puma, Diane Schrenk, Sandra Starks, Bill Wisniewski, and chairperson Sharon Osgood.

Like was said at the beginning of this article... “with a LOT of help from our friends.”

Matt Goldman, Michele Carr and Congressman Brian Higgins

Robert Gioia and Stanley HooperThe star of the Gala, Ttika the llama, with Jan and Jim Sheridan

to benefit the Graycliff ConservancyThe Annual Graycliff Gala 2012

7

Dr. E.O. Smith and Conservancy Secretary Diane Chrisman at Graycliff Gala 2012

Linda and Doug Ward enjoying the party

Thomas Jambro, Fay Northrup and Jerry McGuire

Nancy Brock, Scott Goldman and James Wadsworth

The Piarist Fathers on the stone bench at Graycliff

The Jewel on the Lake

Committee Member Sandy Starks

Award Honoree Burt Notarious

to benefit the Graycliff ConservancyThe Best Party of the Whole Year!

Graycliff and The Piarists: A shared historyThe Graycliff Estate is a masterwork of Frank Lloyd Wright. The architect’s long association with the Martin family and his personal involvement with the project have left us with a work unique in its setting and circumstances. Known as ‘The Jewel on the Lake’, Graycliff wears the appellation well. The diamond motif at Graycliff is a harmony of site, design, and materials. The history and legacy of the estate have facets equal to the brilliance of its architectural expression. Prior to its stewardship under the Conservancy, the Piarist Order owned Graycliff for nearly half a century.

In the upheaval following World War II, there was a refugee crisis throughout Europe. The political and human crises became more acute in Eastern Europe as the Cold War developed. Western New York absorbed waves of post-war eastern European immigrants into a vigorous manufacturing and inland port labor force. In the early 1950’s, Soviet dominance in satellite states was accompanied by increasing persecution of religious and educational elites that did not conform to the new order. Although well established throughout Europe for almost four centuries, the Piarists were compelled to flee their native lands in Poland, Hungary, and other European countries.

The Piarists are the oldest Catholic educational order. Throughout the centuries, their members have often included the intellectual and social elite of their host countries. Their protégé have included students of philosophy and science of the first order, Nobel laureates among them. In 1950, five years after Isabelle Martin’s death, the Piarist Order purchased Graycliff. Renowned for their system of pedagogy and training in a classic rigorous style requiring inquiry and critical thinking, the Piarists opened a school in Buffalo in 1957, Calasanctius. Graycliff, as the motherhome for the Order was at the center of an orbit of intellectual practice and experiment that in many respects remains unduplicated in the region.

As a beacon of political, religious, and intellectual freedom, Graycliff shone brightly at a critical time. The estate’s roots in the Larkin industrial heritage, its proximity to the Roycrofters, the art of craftsmanship, and the organic relationship of stone, water, and light have from the outset been augmented by the intellectual fervor of those associated with this jewel. Terry Robinson

Graycliff Gala volunteers Phyllis Weyer, Tammy Yekich, Marcy Workman, Margaret Santi and Mary Kay Di Paolo

Phot

o: L

arry

Cab

ado

8

The American Spirit of Landscape Lecture SeriesGraycliff was pleased to present the foremost national authorities on landscape architecture today in a series of four lectures on the American Spirit of Landscape. The third and fourth of the series was held at the auditorium of the Burchfield-Penney Art Center.A lecture by Judith Tankard, a landscape historian, author, and preservationist took place on September 19. Judith B. Tankard received an M.A. in art history from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University, and taught at the Landscape Institute, Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University for over 20 years. In 2000, she was awarded a Gold Medal by the Massachusetts Horticultural Society for her role in the advancement of historic New England gardens.She is the author or co-author of eight illustrated books on landscape history, including The Gardens of Ellen Biddle Shipman, which was the recipient of a 1998 book award from the American Horticultural Society. Mrs. Tankard states that, Ellen Biddle Shipman (1869–1950), known as the “Dean of American Landscape Architects” was one of the originators of the gardens of the “Arts & Crafts” movement. Biddle Shipman celebrated for her formal gardens and lush planting style, among her designs are that of Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens (Jacksonville, Florida,) Longue Vue Gardens (New Orleans, LA,) Stan Hywet Hall (Akron, OH,) the Graycliff Estate (now under restoration), and Duke University’s Sarah P. Duke Gardens, often named one of her finest works. Biddle Shipman is considered one of the most important landscape architects during the 1910s and 1920s, during the great years of estate building across the United StatesMrs. Tankard states that her pioneering landscape distinguished for her innovative designs, and described her use of plants as “painting pictures as an artist would.” Biddle Shipman’s planting plans softened the bones of geometric architecture with planting designs that were muscular enough to speak for themselves. The final lecture by Marion Pressley, a landscape historian, author, and preservationist took place on October 17th. Pressley received a Masters in Landscape Architecture from Harvard University, and a Bachelors in Landscape Architecture from Syracuse University. She is a Fellow of the American Society of Landscape Architects , and has won numerous awards for her work. Pressley Associates is responsible for the Cultural Landscape Report Part II for the Graycliff Estate, and for drawings and implementation. The lecture focused on the continuum of landscape design, and layers created by various designers, as at Graycliff with Frank Lloyd Wright and Ellen Biddle Shipman.The lecture series was presented with support from the New York State Council on the Arts and with the cooperation of the Burchfield-Penney Art Center, the Buffalo Olmsted Parks, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, The Elmwood Village Association and the Richardson Restoration Corporation. Special thanks to Embassy Suites Buffalo.

2012 Docent TrainingAs they say “it was a very good year.” Graycliff welcomed five (5) newly certified docents this summer with three (3) more who completed training to be certified in the spring of 2013. The 2012 Docent Training began with the largest group of trainees since Graycliff began. For various reasons some were unable to complete the training, but the training ended with a good number of new docents and a few waiting in the wings. Three of the 2012 trainees who were unable to complete training asked to be included in the 2013 class and we already have an additional six new volunteers who have expressed interest in that class. It promises to again be “a very good year.”It is with much gratitude that Marion Schmidt and Marcy Workman, Docent Co-chairs, acknowledge the assistance of Irene Cuddihy, Loretta Worth and Mary Wilde. They were wonderful in responding to appeals to pinch-hit during training sessions and in conducting certification tours. Thank you, as well, to all the docents who welcomed the trainees to shadow their tours. It is clear that the more tours trainees are exposed to the better docents they become. Finally, thank you to Ben and Karen Little, Amy Picinich, Diane Keller, Lori Mik, Anne Sellers and George Struebel for joining the Graycliff family of Docents.

Judith B. Tankard Marion Pressley

Docent Jim Beardsley leading a tour

Lecturer Dr. Charles Beveridge and Graycliff Conservancy President Pat Mahoney

9

Martin Family VisitorsHappily, just after the Fourth of July, Darwin Martin Foster, and Betsy Mudra and her husband Rick, arrived at Graycliff for their annual visits...something we look forward to each year. Dary Foster is the grandson, and Betsy Mudra the great-granddaughter of Isabelle and Darwin Martin. This year, it was Christmas in July, as each arrived bearing gifts. Dary donated a fireplace screen original to the Foster House, while Betsy and Rick…with warm wishes from Betsy’s mother Margaret Foster…donated a bureau original to the Foster House, as well as a photograph of James Foster in a period frame. James Foster was the son-in-law of Isabelle and Darwin Martin, and the father of both Dary and Margaret. Until the interior restoration of the Foster House is completed, the screen will be on view in Isabelle Martin’s bedroom, and the photograph of James Foster will grace a table in the Family Sun Porch. A big thank you from all Graycliffians to the Foster family, for their on-going generosity, warmth, commitment and enthusiasm.

In September, Erika Stone and her husband John visited Graycliff for the first time… and it was such a pleasure to meet them. The granddaughter of Darwin R. Martin, and the great-granddaughter of Isabelle and Darwin Martin, Erika toured Graycliff with Board member Sandra Brant and Executive Director Reine Hauser….and she and John promise to keep in touch and come back soon…we hope with their three daughters, as well as Erika’s mother, Ginger Holmes.

In MemoriumWe sadly note the deaths of Cheryl Delano and Hannelore Foster in recent months.

Cheryl Delano was the historian for the Town of Evans and a long-time Graycliff volunteer She also was secretary of the Evans Historical Society for 10 years, and served as past treasurer of the Southtowns Rural Preservation Company. A writer as well as an historian, Delano wrote the “Scenes of the Past” column in the Angola Pennysaver, as well as Images of America, Evans and Angola, a book that chronicles the growth of the Town of Evans from 1821 through the present. In addition to serving as a Graycliff docent, Delano also lectured on the private summer homes along the Lake Erie shore during the early 20th century for Graycliff volunteers. Cheryl will be greatly missed.

Hannelore Foster, wife of Darwin Martin Foster, grandson of Isabelle and Darwin Martin, was a beloved Graycliff supporter. A resident of Michigan, Hannelore Foster was an annual—and sometimes more often—visitor to Graycliff. Born in Germany, Hannelore met and married her husband while he was serving in the US Air Force. Bright, warm, and eager to learn, Hannelore was always curious and enthusiastic about the progress the Conservancy was making with restoration. Our deepest condolences to Hannelore’s husband of 55 years, Dary Foster; her daughter Denise; and grandsons Tyler and Shawn Johnson.

A serene summer day at Graycliff

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 among the 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.

Betsy Mudra and Darwin Martin Foster

Cheryl Delano

Erika and John Stone

Darwin Martin Foster and Hannelore Foster

10

On September 12th, close to 50 members of the Conservancy gathered on a lovely summer evening to hear about the exciting successes of 2012 as well as challenges that were encountered.

President Pat Mahoney welcomed members and then called on various committee chairs to report on the year’s activities.

Diane Schrenk, chair of the Education Committee, described four lectures, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts, which were held at the Burchfield Penney Art Center this year.

Following Schrenk, Treasurer Chris Merry noted that, although our financial position is slightly down from last year, we are generally in good financial health, due in part to a very successful gala. He encouraged all present to keep their memberships up-to-date and to consider giving memberships as gifts.

Nominating Committee Chair Diane Chrisman announced that current Director Dr. Barbara Seals Nevergold has agreed to serve another three-year term. Chrisman presented another individual proposed by the Nominating Committee: Dr. Benjamin Christy. Both nominees were elected to the Board.

She then introduced four new Board members who had been elected since the last Annual Meeting: Jim Charlier, Sharon Metz, Kevin Hoffman and Terry Robinson.

Bill Wisniewski and Reine Hauser provided reports on Marketing, stating that attendance to date is 2 to 3% higher than last year’s numbers. Wisniewski noted the popularity of the lecture series, the gala, twilight tours and the new All Wright, All Day tours. The growing significance of Graycliff is apparent in the increased visibility found in many publications that have accorded a prominent spot to Graycliff.

The Executive Director noted that many reporters have visited the site this season with subsequent articles in the Toronto Globe and Mail, Bloomberg News and others. Hauser thanked Sharon Metz and Entercom for the promotions for the gala, which had a marked effect on visitation during that period.

President Mahoney described many projects, both current and those planned for the near future:

A grant, originally obtained by then Senator Antoine Thompson and subsequently supported by Senator Mark Grisanti, provides $125,000 for the fire suppression system and a later grant of $50,000 from Grisanti will fund the restoration of the living room floor. A project supported by the estate of Marian Zimmerman, through the offices of Graycliff member Jerry Puma, will fund a set of large cantilevered shelves. Plans are being developed for the reproduction work and project completion is expected next season.

The National Trust for Historic Preservation has awarded Graycliff a $10,000 grant for a furnishings plan. An RFP for a consultant will be issued soon.

Mahoney explained the multi phase design process for developing the landscape and reported Graycliff’s success in obtaining the Caretaker’s Cottage.

Green Team Chair Cliff Whitman extended thanks to Dale and Kathy Marriott and to Graycliff’s caretaker for their excellent care of the grounds. Whitman noted how much he enjoyed our new high-powered lawn mower, and introduced Barbara Rickard as a faithful gardener. He spoke movingly about how much all of us miss Lester Rickard and how difficult it has been to carry on without him.

Reine Hauser noted the passing of Hannelore Foster, wife of Darwin Martin Foster and long-time volunteer Cheryl Delano. She thanked the volunteer coordinators, Carol Wahlenmayer and Phyllis Spears. Carol is stepping down and will be replaced by Kathy Mehtretter. In addition, she praised docent-training coordinators, Marion Schultz and Marcy Workman. Carol Wahlenmayer has passed the responsibility for Housekeeping coordination to Linda Weyand. With the growing number of Special Events, we will soon need a coordinator for these volunteers too.

After inviting members to enjoy refreshments and noting that a new book by Jack Quinan will soon be available in the gift shop, President Mahoney concluded the meeting at 7:30 p.m.

Diane Chrisman, Recording Secretary

The Annual Meeting of Conservancy Members • September, 2012

WRIGHT on the ROAD FREE LECTuRE PROGRAm

Wright on the Road is a free one hour program of beautiful photos and commentary that explains the history of Graycliff and the historical restoration process.

To arrange a free presentation on Graycliff for your organization, please contact us at graycliff@verizon.net ■ 716-947-9217

Check out our website: GraycliffEstate.org

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:

Restoring the Interior of theIsabelle R. Martin House

Strengthening On -Site Operations

Please contribute–all donations are tax-deductible

For information:716-947-9217

11

New Graycliff Board Members Terry Robinson, Sharon Metz, Jim Charlier and Kevin Hoffman

Jim Charlier is an award-winning graphic designer who lives and works in the Elmwood Village area of Buffalo, New York, Charlier is the Founder and President of JCharlier Communication Design. His firm has provided services in logo/identity development, P.O.S. promotion, collateral, Print advertising, direct marketing, web design, TV commercials, corporate and training videos, packaging design, business-to-business advertising, billboard/transit design, exhibit design, merchandising design, publication design and environmental graphics and exhibit design for many industries, In addition to his professional accomplishments, Charlier has given back to the community as President of Garden Walk Buffalo; 3-term Past President of the Advertising Club of Buffalo; service on the Planning committee for the National Garden Festival and on the Advisory Board of the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University.

Kevin Hoffman is a Graycliff neighbor and resident of Derby, NY. A graduate of Buffalo State College, Hoffman is the assistant manager of the Wanakah Country Club, where he has been employed, in a variety of positions, for nearly thirty years. The Wanakah Country Club is a private, members-only club, with facilities that include dining, tennis, golf, swimming and diving.

After specialized training at the Center for Sales Strategy in Tampa, FL. Sharon Metz returned to Western New York for positions at the NYS Dept. of Transportation; Agway Petroleum; several prominent restaurants as manager; and at Business First. For many years, she has been employed by Entercom Buffalo, where she serves as Director of Regional Sales. Entercom Communications Corporation is the fourth largest broadcasting corporation in the United States, with seven radio stations in the Buffalo area. Metz is a member of Tourism Toronto, Niagara-on-the-Lake Chamber of Commerce; Ellicottville Chamber of Commerce; and BiNational Economic & Tourism Alliance.

Terry Robinson grew up in the Humboldt Parkway neighborhood of Buffalo, NY, where he lives with his wife today. He graduated from Calasanctius High School in 1972 and studied political economy at Princeton and Harvard Universities. After service in the U.S. Marine Corps, Robinson has held a variety of positions in the public sphere. He now serves as Executive Director of Buffalo Public Housing Resident Council Corporation. A community activist deeply engaged in historic preservation and related issues, Robinson was involved with saving Willert Park (A.D Price Courts,) the first housing project built for African-Americans, which in 2010 was added to the Preservation League of New York State’s “Seven to Save” List. Formerly a member of the Board of Directors for the Buffalo Cooperative Credit Union and the Jesus the Liberator Seminary, he is currently a trustee of Preservation Buffalo Niagara.

Dr. Benjamin C. Christy is Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities and Professor of Music at Buffalo State College. He was Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Indiana University- Purdue University Fort Wayne from 1996-2007 and previously served as Professor of Clarinet, Music Department Chair, and Acting Dean of the School of Fine and Performing Arts at Rowan University.

At the request of the Buffalo State president, he led the presidentially designated Year of the Arts. He represents the college on the Community Advisory Group for renovation of the adjacent historical Olmsted Richardson Complex. As a member of the Internal Controls Committee, he contributes to fiscal policy and monitors external audits.

To augment resources, Dr. Christy’s team-focused advocacy at Buffalo State has produced endowments exceeding $4.8 million; $7 million for a new recital hall and art conservation laboratories; and a $47 million visual arts building renovation with planning for a five-story addition housing the humanities departments.

We warmly welcome them to Graycliff.

Graycliff Conservancy Elects New Board MembersIn recent months, the Graycliff Conservancy has elected several new community members to its Board of Directors. These highly qualified individuals were identified as being able to assist the Conservancy in reaching specific goals

and objectives outlined in Graycliff’s most recent Strategic Plan, and graciously accepted their appointment.

Phot

o: C

arl S

chm

itter

Graycliff Volunteers enjoy the Summer Solstice party

12

Green Team members gathered at the picnic table

Phyllis Spears and Marion Schmidt at Summer Solstice

Volunteers John Michaels and Eileen Blackman

Volunteer Loretta Worth

Special Events Volunteer Committee meeting

Special thanks to the Volunteers at Graycliff:The Heart, Soul and Muscle of the ConservancyIt has been a very busy year for Graycliff’s volunteers. Many, many thanks to all of the docents who have led tours, to the chaperones, the Green Team that has cared for our grounds, the Housekeeping Teams that have kept the house looking clean and tidy, the volunteers who have assisted in the gift shop and with mailings, those presenting the Wright-on-the-Road program to groups, and also the volunteers who have helped out with special events during 2012.

The varied special events that Graycliff volunteers have assisted with setting up, working at, and cleaning up after include the Graycliff Gala, four lectures at the Burchfield-Penney Art Center, Boom Days, the Elmwood-Bidwell Farmers Market, the Hamburg Garden Walk, and Graycliff’s first Insiders Tour and Luncheon. Volunteers who assisted at these events include Earl Amidon, Lori Ann Conti, June Crawford, Mary Kay DiPaolo, Lynette Domanski, Sally Dondero, Wendy Duignan, Susan Havey, Cornelia Hennon, Nancy Holtz, Cheryl Lickfield, Roz Lindner, Joan Osborne, Melissa Peters, Karen Procknal, Michelle Puma, Lorraine Sandow, Margaret Santi, Marion Schmidt, Phyllis Spears, Gary Tornquist, Carol and Jerry Wahlenmayer, Linda Weyand, Phyllis Weyer, Bill and Carol Wolfers, Marcy Workman, Loretta Worth, and Tammy Yekich.

Unfortunately, there was no Graycliff garage sale this year. If any member has a good venue and can host a garage sale in 2013, please call 947-9217 and let us know so that planning may begin to resurrect this event.

Two housekeeping teams are keeping Graycliff ready for the guests that come from so many parts of the world. On the first Friday each month Beverly Nenno, Judy Jones, Jeanne Barrett, Loretta Davis, Jill Barrile, Linda Weyand, and Carol Wahlenmayer work on the first floor. A second team comprised of Arlene Morrow, Gary Tornuist, Pam Pelechaty, Lorraine Sandow, Deb Gorski, Earl Amidon and Maureen Amidon prepare the second floor on the second Saturday. In 2013 Linda Weyand will coordinate the teams. Many hands make light work, so your contribution to one or both of the teams would be welcome. Call Graycliff at 947-9217 to express an interest.

The Green Team was especially busy this season, transplanting perennials in anticipation of the historic landscape restoration. Over two weekends in September nearly 200 perennials were transplanted out of the pond garden and into a new bed near the driveway gate and the garden along the home grounds wall. After their work was completed on Sept. 15th, the Green Team members gathered at the picnic table for a snack of sandwiches, scones and cider. We know these gardens will enhance the Graycliff grounds and look forward to enjoying these plants in their new homes next summer. Dennis Wojiechowski prepared the beds; while Dale Marriott dug the compost, helped with transplanting, and spread mulch. Beth Bloomquist, Barb Rickard, Marge Astridge, Kathy Leuthe, and Kathy Marriott dug up the plants and transplanted them.

Graycliff welcomed several new volunteers this season. Welcome to Barbara Abbatoy, Earl and Maureen Amidon, Kathleen Baldwin, Kathy Burke, Erin Clark, Loretta Davis, Nancy Dennis, Barbara Harris, Susan Havey, Nancy Holtz, Mary Kaiser, Diane Keller, James Kubiniec, Sheila Martinec, Elizabeth Masarik, Erin McNichol, Lori Mik, Joli Morgan, Michael Pack, Pam Pelechaty, Amy Picinich, Karen Procknal, Jane Reedy, Jason Sanderson, Kathy Schwinger, Anne Sellers, Ketty Sheff, David and Gail Solowski, Rita Staffan, Wendy Stoklosa, George Struebel, Gary Tornquist, Dan and Susan Wiedemer, Cindy Woods, Mary Lou Woods, and Mary Yachetta.

To all of Graycliff’s volunteers, new and old – thank you. We couldn’t do it without you! We look forward to celebrating all of your efforts at a Volunteer Appreciation Dinner on Saturday, Nov. 10th, from 4 – 6 PM at Graycliff.

Carol Wahlenmayer & Phyllis Spears, Volunteer Co-Chairs

13

Green Team: Meeting and Exceeding the Challenges The Graycliff Green Team enjoyed a challenging Spring and Summer of lakeside gardening. Even though the summer set records for heat and low rainfall, we successfully kept the estate’s many plantings alive, well, and colorfully blooming for all our many guests. Many thanks to our new members, Kathleen Leuthe, Margaret Astridge and Babara Harris, as well as long time gardeners Beth Bloomquist and Barbara Rickard.

We began in March with an energetic group at the Spring Clean Up. In April Nellie Gardner, the resident horticulturist at the Martin House, visited our gardens, sharing stories and offering helpful advice. In May we worked together to design and fill over a dozen large planters, the double window box under the kitchen window, and several fern containers. The rest of the summer was spent keeping all our annuals well-watered and trimmed. (note from Graycliff: this meant watering, watering and more watering! An enormous thank you from everyone at Graycliff to the entire Green Team for their dedication and hard work throughout this long, hot, dry summer.)

On Sept. 9th and 15th, with the Landscaping Restoration Project nearing, we dug up over 200 plants from the pond area and transplanted them into new gardens along the wall and at the end of the pavilion’s side path. We are all very interested in the changes that the new historic landscaping may bring.

We are now anticipating October leaf raking with the help of community volunteers.

Kathy and Dale Marriott Green Team Leaders

UB Buffalo Gardens Symposium & Preservation Plus This autumn, Graycliff was invited to participate in two conferences which took place in the Buffalo area. The first, presented by the University at Buffalo Gender Institute, focused on the subject of gardens, from a variety of perspectives: community, chemistry, environmental ethics, architecture and nature, and much more. Graycliff Executive Director discussed Graycliff’s landscape restoration efforts. Also participating in the symposium was Jim Charlier, a new Graycliff Board member (see page 11.)

A week later, Preservation Plus, a week-long conference exploring the linkages between preservation, urban planning, sustainability and community revitalization took place. On Tuesday, September 25th, Graycliff Vice President Diane Shrenk welcomed a field trip of conference attendees, and led them on a tour of Graycliff. On Friday, September 28th, former Graycliff President Carol Bronnenkant and Executive Director Reine Hauser jointly offered a presentation on Graycliff: From Grass Roots to Deep Roots as an educational session of the conference.

Just Wright for kids 2012 Just Wright for Kids expanded this year, under the guidance of Doug Kohler, Erie County Historian, Chair of the History Department of Clarence Middle School, and a seventh grade history teacher. Just Wright for Kids is a hands-on program for middle school-aged children, held mostly out of doors during the sunny summer weather. Exploring architecture, the workshops included working with Pentomino puzzles, Art Glass, and Pop Up architecture, as well as Graycliff’s architecture. This year, several additional dates for the program were added.

In addition to his distinguished career as an educator (and kids just love him!), Doug Kohler is also a long-time trustee of the Clarence Historical Society, the author of four books on the history of Clarence, NY, and a forthcoming book on Hull House, the historic site in Lancaster, NY. We are grateful to Doug for creating this fun and educational series of workshops.

Green Team Fall 2012

Fun at the lake – Just Wright for Kids 2012

14

Popping the Question: A very special tour momentVisitors on a tour in May got quite a surprise. In the midst of the tour, visitor Dan Tomczyk got down on his knee in the View Room, and proposed marriage to Andrea Mesel. As the newly betrothed Andrea reports:

“We love to visit new places and try new things - we had never been to Graycliff before. Dan selected Graycliff because it was an interesting, unique place to propose, a place where we would both remember forever. It’s a location that stands out as a historical landmark in WNY, would be around for a long time, and we could always go back and visit. It has beautiful scenery with the architecture and landscaping!”

Dan did a lot of planning up front; he worked with Graycliff staff ahead of the proposal date to ensure the tour guide [docent Bev Nenno] had a camera on-hand to capture the moment. The rest of the tour group was just as surprised as I was and got to share in our special day. Dan also arranged for my closest friends to be waiting at a restaurant nearby to celebrate our engagement right after the tour.

We will always remember this day and how accommodating the Graycliff staff was. They were so happy for us! Our wedding is planned for next September in the fall, our favorite season! Thanks again!

Dan & Andrea

All of us at Graycliff wish the happy couple a joyous wedding and long and happy marriage.

The Graycliff Gift Shop has wonderful new items this season, and truly something for everyone: a wide variety of jewelry; Buffalo cutting boards for your favorite cook, Gingko trees to plant yourself; Graycliff yoyos for the child in us all, and Wright-inspired switch plate and outlet covers in copper for your home. Stop by and take a look, or check out some of the things we now have on-line.

CARD #

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.

NAME

ADDRESS

CITY

E-MAIL

STATE ZIP

PHONE

CHECK ENCLOSEDVISA MasterCard

SIGNATURE

Amount enclosed $

YOUR MEMBERSHIP IS CRUCIAL TO SECURE GRAYCLIFF’S FUTURE

Please list my/our name as follows in any donor listing:

Checks payable to: Graycliff Conservancy

Thank You for Your Generous Support!

Please check box next to Membership Level

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.

New in the Graycliff Gift Shop

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

Gingko Tree Plants

www.GraycliffEstate.org

Dan Tomczyk and Andrea Mesel at Graycliff

Graycliff... an interesting, unique place to propose

15

Just in time for the holidays, visit the Graycliff Gift Shop…either in person, or on-line. You’ll find a treasure trove of inspired gift ideas, or even something you’ve been yearning for yourself.The Graycliff Gift Shop has a great selection of jewelry, FLW inspired night lights, table décor, and an assortment of new FLW inspired scarves and ties. Books, pillows, throws, table runners, and of course, our own Graycliff China make terrific gifts. Ample free parking, no crowds…and the Graycliff Gift Shop will be open daily except Wednesday through the Thanksgiving weekend, and Mon-Tues-Thurs-Fri-Sat during December. We’ll even help with gift wrapping. Our on-line gift shop features a variety of exclusive, Graycliff items, from stocking stuffers to exactly what anyone would want to find under the tree.Need something for the person who has everything? A Graycliff membership, or a certificate for a special tour, is just the thing. Available both at Graycliff, and on line, of course. Happy shopping!A few other special highlights:■ Graycliff “Gray” tee shirt. Finally…a Graycliff tee shirt or sweatshirt…in gray! Not heathered...instead, a true, strong gray, just like the cliff itself.■ Frank Lloyd Wright’s Walter V. Davidson House—by Patrick Mahoney, this wonderful book includes photos and drawings available nowhere else. Just the thing for the Frank Lloyd Wright buff.■ Rescue of a Landmark by Marjorie Quinlan book – see article below■ Frank Lloyd Wright’s Buffalo Venture, just published, this new book covers Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in Buffalo, by architectural historian Jack Quinan. ■ Buffalo Cooks – recipes and stories by long-time Buffalo News Food Editor Janice Okun, includes Buffalo favorites, like Sponge candy, “Weck” rolls, & Crystal Beach waffles■ The Graycliff Cap…a cap for all seasons

Shop online: www.graycliffestate.org/shop_Graycliff.cfm

Thank you to the Family of Marjorie QuinlanThis past summer, Molly Knibloe made a wonderful…and unusual donation… to Graycliff on behalf of herself and her family. Knibloe is the daughter of the late Marjorie Quinlan, art historian, long-time Graycliff supporter and author of Rescue of a Landmark: Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin Martin House. Molly and her eleven siblings, in recognition of their late mother’s enthusiasm for Graycliff, have decided to donate all royalties from sales of Rescue of a Landmark to the Conservancy. Knibloe presented a check on behalf of the family to Graycliff in June, coupled with the proceeds of two family yard sales. The intention of the family is to continue to donate royalties, as a lovely tribute to their mother. Marjorie Quinlan helped to write the successful National Register of Historic Places nomination for Graycliff, and was an early, and vocal, supporter of preservation efforts. We are very grateful to the Quinlan family for their continued support, particularly for the source of these funds.

New in the Graycliff Gift Shop...and On-Line, Too!

Graycliff new “Gray” tee shirt Graycliff’s signature Diamond Window china

Frank Lloyd Wright’s Walter V. Davidson Houseby Graycliff President Patrick Mahoney

Buffalo Venture by architectural historian Jack Quinan Buffalo Cooks—recipes and stories by Janice Okun

Graycliff hats in assorted colors

SPECIAL COuPONFor Conservancy members

HoLIDAY SHoPPINGat THE PAVLIoN

20% DISCOuNT*with ths coupon

Good from Nov. 10, 2012 to Jan. 15, 2013

oNE CoUPoN PER MEMBERon Site only

No Web Purchases* except selected items incuding

books, magazines and gift certificates.

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

�

�

�

�

�

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 Wednesday, December 26, Thursday, December 27 Friday, December 28, Saturday, December 29 and Sunday, December 30, 2012. Reservations are required; please call 716-947-9217 or email graycliff@verizon.net Please see our website at www.GraycliffEstate.org for more details.