Historic Bartow-Pell Mansion Gardens Seeking Volunteers for Masonry Restoration Project

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
(Free-Press-Release.com) June 23, 2008 -- New York and Boulder, Colorado - The landmark Bartow-Pell Mansion graces a nine-acre expanse of manicured gardens that are true to their 1915 design except in one way - the steps' original stone galleting has been replaced with cement mortar. With the help of volunteers working the week of August 3-9 and learning the lost art of galleting, the walkway steps will be restored to their original beauty and condition, part of a long-term plan to complete restoration of the stately mansion and grounds.

The week of work is being coordinated by Heritage Conservation Network, a non-profit that organizes hands-on conservation workshops at historic sites around the world, and the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum itself. A group from France is already committed to helping, thanks to Preservation Volunteers, a New York non-profit. Additional volunteers are needed, and no experience is necessary, points out Judith Broeker, HCN's program director. Volunteers will work under the guidance of Andy deGruchy of deGruchy Masonry Restoration, Inc., who will teach them the fine art of cutting gallets with a tiny guillotine and placing them in the masonry work.

As with most volunteer vacation projects of this type, volunteers are asked to contribute to the cost of the work and cover their own expenses. Cost for the one-week workshop is $600 per person for those not needing lodging; the fee covers lunches, materials, instruction and insurance. Volunteers coming from out of town and needing lodging pay a fee of US$1,115, which also includes accommodation and breakfast at Le Refuge Inn on beautiful City Island. The workshop schedule includes time to sightsee in the vicinity. The registration deadline is July 3, 2008. To register, go to heritageconservation.net/ws-bartow-pell-2008.htm.

Heritage Conservation Network is a non-profit organization dedicated to the conservation of architectural heritage around the world. HCN's workshops give volunteers the opportunity to give something back by helping to protect valuable cultural treasures. To learn more about HCN's international workshops, visit HCN's website www.heritageconservation.net.

The Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum is owned by the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation, operated by International Garden Club, Inc., and is a member of the Historic House Trust of New York City. For more information about the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum and gardens, visit www.bartowpellmansionmuseum.org.

Contact:
Clarissa Cylich, Executive Director
Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum
718 885 1461

Judith Broeker
Heritage Conservation Network
1557 North Street, Boulder, CO 80304 USA
303 444 0128; jbroeker@heritageconservation.net

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