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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1985-02-21 State of Connecticut Department of Education Connecticut Historical CommissionSTATE OF CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION CONNECTICUT HISTORICAL COMMISSION February. 21, President Frank H. T. Rhodes Cornell University 300 Day Hall Ithaca, NY 14853 9 Ci CLEWS 098E 5 Ithaca, LI. Dear President Rhodes: As a graduate of Cornell University's doctoral program in architectural history and preservation planning, I am writing -to express my concern regarding the proposed demolition of Roberts, East Roberts, and Stone Halls to make way for a new building on the west side of the Agriculture Quadrangle. In my profession as a historic preservationist, I have worked in state preservation programs throughout the country, including Mississippi, North Dakota, Washington, and Connecticut. I know from first-hand experiencethe economic and social benefits derived from the preservation of older buildings. I also realize that Cornell has a responsibility to ensure that its academic programs are adequately housed. However, in the present instance, I believe, along with others in the Ithaca and Cornell communities, that the goal can be reached through rehabilitation rather than demolition. The project would be challenging but not insurmountable to a university with Cornell's commitment and resources. It has successfully demonstrated in the past that it can return aging structures to a useful campus role, and it should take the opportunity now at hand to do so. Roberts, East Roberts, and Stone Halls are entered in the National Register of Historic Places and the New York State Register of Historic Places. They have been recognized as significant in the architecture and history of the state and the nation. As an educational institution, Cornell should confirm that designation rather than violate it. I strongly urge that the three buildings be saved. DM/AW cc: Board of Trustees, Cornell University Ithaca Common Council ✓_ Historic Ithaca, Inc. Ithaca Journal Sincerely, Dawn Maddox, Ph.D. Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer GoPi�.l Aiupge� lP.sar1J Iv -25g$' Phone: (203) 566-3005 59 South Prospect Street • Hartford, Connecticut 06106 An Equal Opportunity Employer