Fall/Winter 2003 Table of Contents
Old Homes Puts on a New Face
By Iris M. Drzewiecki
The beautiful circa 1810 Hull House is presenting a new face to the world, thanks to the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation grant. Stucco has been removed from the front facade, revealing the original stone that was then repointed. Windows and doors were repaired and painted; dead trees removed from the perimeter, all part of stabilization efforts.
The House played host to indoor Art on Wheels every Sunday during July and August, staffed by docents. People who volunteered for this important service include Maurine & Bernie Beechler, Marianne Cassel, Caroline and Ken Clinard, John Conlin, Gary Costello, Sheila Coughlin, Ron Czapla, Jeanette Dickinson, Dan & Iris Drzewiecki, Marcia Ely, Jack Harris, Barbara Hull, Sylvia Jakubiak, Barbara Kager, Marietta, Stan & Matt Keysa, Marilyn Mendelson, Paula Penepent, Sue Petherick, Donna Schmidley, Marie Sturm, and Lisa Wolski. Beside supporting this public art endeavor, 160 visitors came to admire the three wonderful skateboards designed by Kathy Fiete of Fairport.This event generated feature articles in The Buffalo News, Lancaster Bee, Amherst Bee and Orchard Park Bee. A serendipity was the people who signed the volunteer sheet to become part of the hard-working Hull House Committee.
The spirits of Polly and Warren Hull must be smiling to see all the activity surrounding their beloved residence. In August, John Conlin gave a private tour to NY State Legislator Paul Tokasz and his Assistant Dorothy Furtney. Archaeological digs are underway, led by University at Buffalo's Dr. Doug Perelli. The public was invited to join in the digs on October 11th by Dr. Perelli. Dominic Cortese's Hammertime program (Saturdays AM) featured Hull House on October 4th and 11th.The House's new face beamed on Channel 4. Dominic also referred to the upcoming fundraiser on October 24th. Held at Fox Valley Club in Lancaster, it featured a lovely dinner and silent auction to benefit restoration. Gary Costello, Chairman of the Hull House Committee, donated his original handcrafted table for auction. Hull House calendars were favors set at tables with awesome Hull House centerpieces designed by Maurine and Bernie Beechler. Janet Day and Bob Kresse accepted a framed Hull House poster for the Margaret L. Wendt Foundation office, given in tribute to their $125,000 grant. Guests were treated to a taping by Brian LaTulip portraying Warren Hull in the parlour of Hull House, thanking Hull House Committee for all the wonderful work and urging roof restoration.
His words, "Polly and I are grateful!" were heartwarming. As part of Doors Open Niagara, the House was open on October 18th and 19th, attracting many new visitors. About 200 people were given tours. The mums at the doorway, colorful leaves on the parlour mantle, and antique furniture placed around the rooms attracted smiles and interest. Applications are being submitted for additional funding.
Wilson Greatbach is awarding a $500 grant. Progress is very encouraging, but much more needs to be done to accomplish the goal of restoration. The Hull House Committee welcomes anyone who is interested to join us! There are many opportunities to get involved and serve in a variety of ways.