Historical Society Hosts Landmarks Recognition Event April 29

GREENWICH, CT - From the Greenwich Historical Society: Greenwich Historical Society’s Landmark Recognition Program, an annual initiative that recognizes historic properties reflecting Greenwich’s unique architectural heritage, will celebrate the plaquing and documentation of four structures for their value in preserving Greenwich’s legacy at a reception on Sunday, April 29th. The properties include Second Congregational Church and three private residences: a dazzling mid-century contemporary home, a distinctive Tudor and a chateau worthy of French royalty that is one of Greenwich’s Great Estates. In addition, the Historical Society will present two Preservation Awards as part of a related program that recognizes individuals, organizations or projects for their contributions to the preservation of Greenwich’s historical resources.

Anthony E. Malkin, chairman and CEO of Empire State Realty Trust, will deliver a presentation on the $500+ million restoration of the Empire State Building, which Mr. Malkin’s real estate investment trust owns and manages. His talk, “The Empire State Building: Preserving and Making History at the Same Time,” will chronicle how this iconic symbol of New York’s grandeur was transformed back to its 1930s Art Deco luster, with a special focus on the building’s majestic lobby – one of the few interiors in New York to be designated a National Historic Landmark. Under Mr. Malkin’s leadership, the restored and revitalized skyscraper is
now a state-of-the-art property and leader in energy efficiency and sustainability, with some of the most expensive and sought-after office space in Manhattan.

“It is an honor to have Anthony Malkin deliver the keynote on the restoration of one of America’s most cherished landmarks – a building that has literally defined New York’s greatness since it was built 87 years ago,” says Debra Mecky, executive director of the Greenwich Historical Society. “Our audience will be enthralled to hear about the challenges involved in transforming the building and lobby to its original splendor after years of deterioration. Anthony’s Greenwich roots will make it especially meaningful to our local audience.”

Emma Pennington and Beth Taylor are the program co-chairs. The 2018 Landmarks Selection Committee includes Chairman Nancy Ramer, John Dixon, Rose Scott Long, Jack Morris and Amanda Martocchio. Ex officio Selection Committee members include Davidde Strackbein, chairman of the Historical Society, Debra Mecky and Christopher Shields, the Historical Society’s Curator of Library and Archives. ChiChi Ubiña contributed the photography.

Greenwich Historical Society gratefully acknowledges program sponsors Charles Hilton Architects, David Ogilvy & Associates and Fairfield County Look.

The 31st annual Landmarks Recognition event takes place on Sunday, April 29 that the Greenwich Country Club, 19 Doubling Road, Greenwich, 4 – 6 p.m. A champagne reception will precede the program. Tickets are $75 per person; $250 for Patron level; $500 for Benefactor level. Reservations are required. Reserve at: greenwichhistory.org or call 203/869-6899, ext. 10.

About the Greenwich Historical Society

The Greenwich Historical Society was founded in 1931 to collect and chronicle the unique and colorful history of Greenwich, Connecticut. The circa 1730 National Historic Landmark Bush-Holley House, which began life as a home for prosperous merchants and gained recognition later as the site of the first American Impressionist art colony in Connecticut, is open to the public as a museum. Greenwich Historical Society operates a museum gallery with rotating exhibitions, educates thousands of school children annually, and produces a full calendar of programs and events that connect residents with the town’s history. The Historical Society has embarked on a major capital campaign to advance its mission and secure its future at the forefront of America’s historical institutions. A dynamic campus transformation is underway that will accommodate more visitors, expanded program initiatives and an increased endowment. The newly imagined campus will be completed in fall 2018.

Photo courtesy of Greenwich Historical Society