PRESERVATION ADVOCACY

As regional advocate for historic preservation on Long Island since 1948, SPLIA has been advancing important preservation issues, protecting historic structures, and assisting local advocates through a variety of activities. Through independent work and coordinated efforts with individuals, local historical societies, museums, and all levels of government and chambers of commerce, SPLIA cultivates a greater understanding and appreciation of a shared cultural inheritance among all Long Islanders.

Jones Beach West Bathhouse, constructed 1930.
A special report on the status and condition of Jones Beach prepared by SPLIA brought to light the historic importance and insidious loss of significant features at this extraordinary recreational facility, made recommendations to improve its preservation, and prompted its listing to the National Register of Historic Places.




Special Reports

With the preparation of special reports, SPLIA provides specific information and insight into developing preservation issues and important historic sites on Long Island. These reports are available for distribution to interested individuals, preservation groups, municipalities, and the press.


Preservation Notes Volume XL, nos. 1 and 2.
Cover story identifying a rare example of early reinforced concrete technology used in bridge construction: designed and built in 1902 by Ernest Ransome for the summer residence of Frank M. Smith (the "Borax King") on Shelter Island.




Preservation Notes

Preservation Notes, the Society's newsletter alerts those interested in historic preservation about current preservation issues and threats to our historic resources, new laws concerning landmarks and success stories around Long Island. Preservation Notes is published semi-annually and is provided free to all Society members.


Click here to view past Preservation Notes(opens a new window)


A. Conger Goodyear House, Westbury.
Long Island's premiere Modernist residence: built in 1938; designed by Edward Durell Stone; and saved from the wrecking ball after SPLIA's nomination to both the Save to Save and World Monuments Watch lists.





Nominations

By making nominations to widely publicized endangered properties lists such as the Preservation League of New York State's Seven to Save, and the World Monuments Fund Watch: 100 Most Endangered Sites, SPLIA brings state and national attention to historic Long Island properties at risk.

St. Paul's School, Garden City.
Designed in 1879 by Henry G. Harrison as a memorial to department store magnate, A. T. Stewart, this impressive Romanesque building endured over a decade of neglect and possible demolition until SPLIA coordinated a stakeholders meeting to begin planning for a viable future. This galvanized the Committee to Save St. Paul's which is working tirelessly to realize a restoration and adaptive reuse plan for the building.





Advisory Activities

In its advisory capacity, SPLIA provides information and guidance to assist local groups and municipalities in the process of preservation planning. Advisory topics include conducting research, making National Register nominations, creating local historic districts, establishing local landmark ordinances, and preparing design guidelines.


"Gissa Bu," Lamott T. Cohu Residence, Shinnecock Hills.
Designed by Thorbjorn Bassoe of Norway and built in 1930, this highly unusual and intact Nordic Revival style residence was threatened by inappropriate development and possible demolition. Through varied coordinated efforts, including several appearances at Southampton Town Meetings, SPLIA advanced the historic importance of this largely unknown property.




Public Appearances

Through public appearance at municipal hearing and meetings, as well historical and community groups, SPLIA provides authoritative information on a variety of topics to help advance preservation in the region. Whether testifying on behalf of particular sites at town and village hearings, or providing information and guidance through formal meetings and presentations, SPLIA uses its expertise to advocate preservation directly.


Fort Hill, Lloyd Neck.
Originally designed in the Shingle style by McKim, Mead, & Bigelow in 1879, this residence was expanded and altered in 1900 by architects Boring & Tilton into its current Tudor Revival form. Since 1992, SPLIA has managed preservation covenants over this property, which includes a formal garden designed by J. Clinton Mackenzie circa 1911.





Stewardship

Management of restrictive preservation covenants over eight privately owned historic properties allows SPLIA to facilitate their perpetual protection by working with property owners to insure appropriate treatment and maintenance.



Preservation Awards

The Society presents awards to celebrate and promote achievements in restoration and preservation around Long island. Its coveted Howard Sherwood Award is presented to individuals for superior achievement in historic preservation and Long Island history publications.


 

  

Society for the Preservation of Long Island Antiquities - 161 Main Street / P.O. Box 148 Cold Spring Harbor, NY 11724
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