Wells Legacy Society Urges Action on Building Preservation Amid Growing Concerns

NASHVILLE, TN, UNITED STATES, November 4, 2024: The Wells Legacy Society is raising alarms over the future of Wells College’s historic campus in Aurora, NY, which remains at significant risk of damage due to the lack of proper preservation measures. The college’s recent announcement that it will leave the buildings unheated throughout the winter has sparked serious concerns from preservation experts, who warn of irreversible harm to the historic structures.

"Preservation experts at the highest state level have expressed grave concern and offered professional guidance on this perilous plan to turn off the heat," said Rachel Snyder, President of the Wells Legacy Society. "The matter is urgent. Damage can occur within weeks this winter. Why entrust the protection of these architectural gems of the Finger Lakes to a NYC firm lacking any notable expertise in the field?"

The college’s plan to partner with Christie’s auction house to manage the preservation of the campus’ historic assets, including delicate materials, archives, and books, has raised doubts among preservation professionals. However, no mention was made of protecting the buildings themselves or other invaluable assets, such as concert grand Steinway pianos, which could suffer significant harm in freezing temperatures.

"As far as we’re concerned, only a preservation architect would be qualified to evaluate and develop a plan for building maintenance," said Caitlin Meives, Preservation Director of the Preservation League of NYS. "I have never known [Christie’s] to work in the realm of building preservation nor does anything on their website suggest they have such expertise." She also quoted the National Parks Service’s technical guidance, noting that improperly mothballed masonry buildings can incur severe damage within a year, rendering the interiors unsalvageable.

The Wells campus features a dozen historic buildings, including the 1852 limestone Glen Park villa (former home of founder Henry Wells), the 1858 Gothic Revival Pettibone House, and the iconic 1890 Main Building. These buildings, all listed on the National Register of Historic Places, are in danger of irreparable harm without proper winterization.

The college’s decision to list the campus for sale through the real estate firm CBRE further complicates the situation, with the process potentially taking over a year. "We understand that any sale would need to be approved by the state Attorney General," said Snyder. "The Trustees have an obligation to properly maintain the buildings as assets throughout the winter in advance of that approval."

Daniel Mackay, New York State Deputy Commissioner for Historic Preservation, emphasized the importance of safeguarding the campus's National Register status. "The National Register status of the campus is a significant asset for any future redevelopment. It would be a shame for an ill-conceived or executed care-taking plan for the campus to negatively impact the historic assets that offer the campus the most appropriate path forward."

In an effort to protect the historic Wells campus, the Preservation Association of Central New York has nominated the college for inclusion in the "Seven to Save" program for 2025-26, run by the Preservation League of NYS. This initiative aims to preserve endangered historic sites across the state and could provide increased advocacy, visibility, and support for Wells College’s legacy.

Founded as a nonprofit on May 15, the Wells Legacy Society works to preserve the history and legacy of Wells College and advocate for the ongoing protection of its historic buildings. For more information, visit www.WellsLegacySociety.org.