Community Spotlight: The Landmark Society of Western New York

What is the Landmark Society of Western New York?

The Landmark Society of Western New York Inc. is one of the nation’s oldest and most active historic preservation organizations. It is a not-for-profit membership organization dedicated top reserving, interpreting, and fostering interest in the architectural, historical, and cultural heritage of our region. The Landmark Society’s service area covers nine counties in Western New York,centered on the City of Rochester.

What is the mission of the Landmark Society of Western NY?

Our mission is to protect the unique architectural heritage of our region and promote preservation and planning that fosters healthy, livable, and sustainable communities.

How and when did the Landmark Society get started?

The Landmark Society was organized 80 years ago in 1937, preceding by 10 years the founding of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, of which it is  a charter member. Helen Ellwanger led a group of volunteers in founding an organization to protect and preserve the Campbell-Whittlesey mansion in the historic Corn Hill neighborhood of Rochester. Built on this modest foundation,  the Landmark Society has grown into a preservation organization with a state and national reputation.

What is the African American Landmarks Initiative?

As a part of the 75th Anniversary campaign in 2012, the Landmark Society launched an African American Landmarks Initiative to identify little-known or non-traditional sites associated with the African-American community in the Rochester area and thereby inspire residents and attract investment. Following three public listening sessions,several target locations were chosen and grant funds were directed for a feasibility study that included cost estimates, use and reuse ideas, and streetscaping concepts.

Tell us about your annual event“Walk the Walk.”

During the “Walk the Walk” school performances on Feb. 8 and 9, students will meet actors portraying Rochester’s African-American ancestors. Student swill experience an onstage performance,as each ancestor shares his or her story.Interactive activities keep students engaged during the performance, with provided materials preparing students and reinforcing content.

Who are the Landmark Society’s community partners?

19th Ward Community Association: Preserves the residential character of Rochester’s historic and multi-cultural 19th Ward neighborhood.

Arcade Historical Society: Dedicated to collecting and preserving records and artifacts that illustrate the history of the town of Arcade.

Avon Preservation & Historical Society: Gathers, preserves, and advances history of the town and village of Avon.

Corn Hill Neighbors Association: Protects and promotes the residential and historical character and beauty of the Corn Hill neighborhood, and encourages civic spirit, good will, and friendship between residents.

Greece Historical Society: Collect,research and preserve the history of the town.

Historic Brighton: Celebrating and educating about Brighton’s dynamic past.

Historic Pittsford: Dedicated to awareness of historical residential and commercial properties in the village and town of Pittsford.

Historic Ithaca: Promotes the value and enhancement of Ithaca’s historic building sand neighborhoods through education,advocacy, and action.

Pro-Brockport: A not-for-profit volunteer Political Action Committee.

Providence Housing Development: Develops, finances, and manages affordable housing for seniors, individuals with special needs, and families.

Rochester Regional Community Design Center: Promotes healthy communities by encouraging excellence in design of buildings and neighborhoods, as well as thoughtful use of existing resources.

South Bristol Historical Society: Collects and preserves historical memorabilia and important records and maintain an historical reference center.

Western Monroe Historical Society: Preserves the Morgan-Manning House and the cultural and historical heritage of the Brockport area.

Learn more about the Landmark Society atlandmarksociety.org