Down Payment Made on Graycliff Purchase

On December 4, 1997 at the Buffalo & Erie County Historical Society, the Graycliff Conservancy held a press conference to present a check for $20,000 to the Piarist Fathers for the downpayment on the purchase of Graycliff. Against a backdrop of the Historical Society's current Frank Lloyd Wright exhibit, Conservancy president Carol Bronnenkant present the check to Father Kalmen, one of the current owners and occupants of Graycliff. "Preservation," Ms. Bronnenkant stated, "is part of a growing regional effort to utilize our community's unrivaled architectural treasures to attract heritage tourism to our area."

The down payment represents a milestone for the Conservancy. It was not more than 8 months ago that a small group of concerned individuals learned of the sale of the property. In that small period of time, this dedicated group founded the Conservancy, a grassroots organization which now has 21 board members, 9 committees, 158 members, and 50+ enthusiastic volunteers.

Through donations, membership dues, lecture series, a gala, and other special events, the Conservancy was able to raise the down payment.  WIVB-TV, WBFO, the Buffalo News, and the Dunkirk Observer covered the check presentation. Local and state politicians also on hand to endorse the Conservancy's efforts included Assemblyman Robin Schimminger (140th District), Richard Smith (146th District), Senator William Stachowski (58th District), Erie County Legislator Jeanne Chase, and a representative from Assemblyman Paul Tokasz's  office.
 

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