Monthly Around The Block e-News

THE STATEWIDE ADVOCATE FOR HISTORIC PLACES

Around the Block e-News

A Special Note from Preserve RI's Val Talmage

Dear Friends,

We are all still grappling with the impact this historic crisis will have on our world—and in particular our little piece of it, Rhode Island. As part of the Preserve RI community, our first concern is for you and your loved one’s wellbeing. The entire team here is healthy and safely working remotely.

While this crisis has upended many of our plans, I can assure you that we continue to carry out our mission as advocates for historic places across the state, continuing our stewardship of properties and programs, and finding ways to build and support our communities. In these anxious days, we want to share stories of our progress as we learn to advocate and problem-solve remotely and build community while we all stay at home. As champions of preservation, I hope you find this news a welcome respite.

After this world-changing event, one thing that will not alter is our love for Rhode Island’s special places. Our collective work to preserve our beautiful landscapes and historic neighborhoods will continue.

Please share with us any thoughts or ideas you’d like us to make our community aware of.

Stay well,

Valerie Talmage

Executive Director

On the Job: Evaluating Grant Applications

Grace Gielink, Program and Property Coordinator Paul Trudeau, Property Manager

The 1772 Foundation asked Preserve RI to manage their grant program in Rhode Island, intending to award $100 thousand in grants of up to $10 thousand each. Since the beginning of the year, Grace Gielink and Paul Trudeau have trekked across Rhode Island to evaluate potential projects. Luckily, Grace and Paul had wrapped up field visits before the coronavirus outbreak requiring Rhode Islanders to stay at home. Traveling from Coventry to Block Island, they visited museums, libraries, wildlife centers, and theaters. Proposed projects include window restoration, new roofs, structural work, and masonry repointing.

For Grace, a newcomer to Rhode Island, the site visits were a great introduction to her new home state. Grace says "This was the perfect way to begin a new job. I made connections with people in different communities, learned stories specific to Rhode Island's history, and became familiar with many significant buildings in the state. I feel lucky to be here doing everything I love, and I've received many warm welcomes along the way!"

Preserve RI will make recommendations to The 1772 Foundation this week. The 1772 Foundation will make the final decisions on grant awards in April.

Community Preservation Response (CPR)

Rueben Hart farmhouse exterior

Rueben Hart farmhouse interior

With support from the Rhode Island Foundation, we have been responding to preservation issues in cities and towns throughout the state. Preserve RI provides information and assistance to help people care for old houses and community landmarks. We also give strategic advice to guide local efforts to save threatened resources.

Preserve RI is working with advocates in the Town of Tiverton trying to save the historic Rueben Hart farmhouse on Wingover Farm where a large-scale solar array is planned. In March, the Planning Board came to the conclusion that residential use of the 300 year old building could not continue. This decision - that residential use will not be allowed on a property that is zoned residential - seems wrong-headed. An editorial and article in the Sakonnet Times call for a sensible solution, acknowledging Preserve RI’s suggestion of practical compromise and offering hands-on assistance. Local preservationists have not given up – so stay tuned.

Lippitt House Museum Floor Repair

Music Room floor before

Music Room floor after

Even though we're closed for public programs, the work to keep Lippitt House in good condition never ends. Our Property Manager Paul is repairing gaps in the "parquetry" flooring in the Music Room. Some jobs are easier when you are practicing social distancing.

Supporting RI Non-Profits on April 1st

401Gives is a day of giving initiated by the United Way of Rhode Island to support philanthropy of local non-profits from social services to arts and culture organizations.

If you support historic preservation, consider donating today. The Rhode Island Foundation is matching gifts up to $500 for the first $50,000 donations received.

Preview the Preserve Rhode Island donation page by visiting

www.401gives.org/organizations/preserve-rhode-island

Be sure to visit the live site on 4/1/2020 to donate. Thank you!

Emergency Relief Bill

Historic preservation in Rhode Island relies on small businesses – both private and nonprofit. From Main Street shops to architectural offices, from independent contractors to community preservation organizations, small businesses are the heart of saving Rhode Island’s historic places. The economic impacts of the current crisis to small businesses in Rhode Island is acute – faced with a cash crunch and few reserves, the survival of small business is on the line. Enacted into law last on Friday, the Federal Coronavirus Aid Relief Act includes provisions to shore up the economic impact to small businesses, including provisions that encourage the stabilization of payrolls. A new forgivable loan program is designed to keep small businesses working. The Council of Nonprofits has provided a description of the provisions and NPR has created a comprehensive summary of the legislation.