Category Archives: News

Wells College Named One of New York’s Seven to Save!

25 March, 2025 8:59 am - Leave a Comment

The Preservation Association of Central New York (PACNY) is proud to share the news that Wells College has been named one of New York’s Seven to Save by the Preservation League of New York State. Since 1999, the Seven to Save program has spotlighted New York’s most at-risk historic places, drawing attention to significant sites in need of advocacy and creative solutions to ensure their preservation.

“Our hope is that by recognizing the campus as one of this year’s Seven to Save, the Preservation League can help PACNY bring together stakeholders to find a path forward through consensus,” said PACNY President Andrew Roblee. “This spirit of working together is captured by the Wells motto, Habere et Dispertire, ‘to have and to share.’”

Wells College, founded in 1868 as a women’s college, represents an important piece of New York’s educational and architectural legacy. Its historic campus, nestled in the picturesque village of Aurora, NY, includes several buildings and landscapes that are part of the Aurora Village Historic District, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1980. Additionally, just beyond the district boundaries are three striking modernist structures designed by Walter Netsch of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), completed less than 15 years before the district’s original listing.

Louis Jefferson Long Library, Walter Netsch (1968)

However, Wells College now faces serious challenges following its sudden closure in the spring of 2024. The implications of the closure extend beyond Aurora, affecting the local economy, community identity, and the preservation of the college’s remarkable architectural heritage. The threat of deterioration looms large if essential maintenance—particularly heating through the winter and regular monitoring—is not provided.

Caitlin Meives, Director of Preservation for the Preservation League of NYS, emphasized the broader implications of Wells College’s inclusion on the list: “Wells College is a cornerstone of Aurora, NY, and its closure puts not just its buildings and landscape at risk, but also the sense of place it has helped foster in the wider community. Its significance goes beyond the local. As the state of higher education continues to change, other small liberal arts colleges may shutter as well. In the long term, a sensitive adaptive reuse of this storied college campus would positively impact the local community while providing an example for other similar campuses across the state and beyond.”

Efforts to safeguard Wells College’s future are already underway. A partnership group including PACNY, Historic Ithaca, the Landmark Society of Western New York (which also included Wells on its 2025 Five to Revive List), and the Preservation League of NYS is actively working to engage the local community, the college administration, and state officials to find viable solutions.

The closure of Wells College is a moment of critical importance for New York’s cultural heritage. By raising awareness and building coalitions, we aim to protect this extraordinary property and ensure its continued use, ideally as part of a broader strategy that can provide inspiration for other struggling institutions.

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PACNY Celebrates Major Milestone for the Westcott-University Historic District Nomination!

10 December, 2024 11:11 am - Leave a Comment

The Preservation Association of Central New York (PACNY) is thrilled to announce a landmark moment in the journey to secure National Register of Historic Places designation for the Westcott-University Historic District. On December 8, the New York State Board of Historic Preservation unanimously supported the nomination, marking the final major hurdle before the application is sent to the federal Department of the Interior for approval—a process expected to be a mere formality.

This milestone is the culmination of a grassroots effort that began in 2017, championed by local preservation advocates and bolstered by the City of Syracuse’s preservation planning office. Together, these entities have worked tirelessly to document the rich history of over 2,000 properties within the proposed district, which includes more than 700 garages and outbuildings. The nomination application itself—a testament to the neighborhood’s significance—is a sprawling 397-page document filled with meticulously researched property histories.

The 700 block of Allen Street (Photo courtesy of Sam Gruber).

A District of Impressive Scale and Architectural Richness

If approved, the Westcott-University Historic District would be the second-largest historic district in New York State, trailing only a district in Buffalo. Encompassing a diverse array of architectural styles—such as Queen Anne, Craftsman, Prairie, and Colonial Revival—the district reflects Syracuse’s historic growth as a “streetcar suburb,” designed for working-class residents who sought a quieter life away from the bustling city center. The district’s development was also influenced, though not entirely defined, by the proximity of Syracuse University.

Benefits Without Restrictions

One of the most compelling aspects of this designation is the opportunity it opens for property owners. Listing on the National Register enables owners to access historic renovation tax credits, providing a powerful financial incentive for restoring and maintaining their homes. Importantly, the designation does not impose restrictions on property owners who choose not to pursue these incentives. Unlike local historic district protections, National Register listing does not require design review or limit changes to properties.

Community Support for Preservation

The community’s response to the nomination has been overwhelmingly positive. Of the thousands of property owners notified earlier this fall, the state board received just two letters of objection—an extraordinary show of support for a district of this size. Three letters in favor of the nomination, including endorsements from Syracuse Mayor Ben Walsh and the Syracuse Landmark Preservation Board (LPB), further underscore the widespread enthusiasm for this effort.

PACNY extends its heartfelt gratitude to the many individuals and organizations who have contributed to this achievement. The nomination process required not only the perseverance of local advocates but also the expertise and dedication of Syracuse’s preservation planners. Their hard work has ensured that this vibrant neighborhood’s cultural and architectural heritage will be recognized on a national stage.

Looking Ahead

As the nomination heads to the Department of the Interior for final approval, PACNY looks forward to celebrating the official designation of the Westcott-University Historic District. This recognition is not only a victory for preservation advocates but also a testament to the power of collaboration and community pride in protecting the places that tell our shared stories.

PACNY remains committed to supporting historic preservation initiatives throughout Central New York and beyond. Together, we can ensure that our region’s unique history continues to enrich lives for generations to come.

Stay tuned for updates on the designation process, and consider becoming a member of PACNY to support our ongoing efforts to preserve and celebrate Central New York’s irreplaceable heritage.

Posted in: Advocacy, News, Uncategorized - Tagged: ,

Thank You for Making PACNY’s 50th Anniversary Celebration Unforgettable!

21 November, 2024 10:07 am - Leave a Comment

We are overwhelmed with gratitude as we reflect on PACNY’s 50th Anniversary Celebration held on November 8 at the beautiful Springside Inn in Auburn. It was an incredible evening filled with laughter, reflection, and inspiration, made possible by the 86 attendees and our generous sponsors who joined us to honor five decades of historic preservation in Central New York.

The evening was enriched by a showcase of historic artifacts from PACNY’s archives, which brought our organization’s journey to life. A lively photobooth provided attendees with wonderful keepsakes, capturing the joy of the event and the camaraderie of our preservationist community.

One of the night’s most memorable moments was presenting the Founders Award to Dennis Connors, PACNY’s first Executive Director. His visionary leadership laid the foundation for PACNY’s successes and inspired countless preservation efforts across the region.

This milestone event would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors, whose generosity helped make this celebration one for the books. A heartfelt thank-you goes out to each of you for believing in PACNY’s mission and contributing to its future.

To our attendees, your presence was the true highlight of the evening. You are the heart of PACNY, and your passion for preservation motivates us to continue our work with renewed energy and purpose.

Here’s to another 50 years of honoring the past and shaping the future!

With gratitude,
The PACNY Team

Posted in: Awards, Events, News