Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation

The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation is seeking a qualified individual to serve in the role of Administrative Assistant. This position is responsible for assisting the Executive Director, Development Director, and Preservation & Programs Coordinator with day-to-day administrative tasks. This is a part-time position requiring 15-20 hours/week. To view the full job description and qualifications, visit our website! https://lnkd.in/ddc5FAxm

Fun Fact Friday ?? Did you know Anne’s Washington Inn on South Broadway has a history connecting so many facets of Saratoga? The Inn was built in 1885 as “Sunnyside” or “Sunset Villa,” a hilltop cottage by NYC businessman John B. Thompson. In 1905, Dr. Richard H. McCarty—a physician, surgeon, coroner, and the town's health officer—opened it as "McCarty Hospital," Saratoga’s third hospital. Until its closing in 1940, he welcomed everyone, with a sign reading: “Free for the poor on Tuesdays and Thursdays.”? ? In 1944, Anne Bokan's father, Charles Russel, an established hotelier, purchased the property. It was named the Washington Inn after the nearby Washington Baths, now home to the National Museum of Dance—further linking it to Saratoga’s famous mineral springs. During the early 1960s, the Inn’s downstairs room served as a meeting place for Jewish families working to reform their synagogue until the establishment of Temple Sinai at 509 Broadway in 1965.? ? In 1990, the Inn was renamed Anne’s Washington Inn when Anne Bokan transferred operations to her son and his wife. Last year, the Bokans celebrated 80 years of owning this historic gem at 111 South Broadway. ?? ? Today, Anne's Washington Inn honors the mineral water with the creation of the "Saratoga's Springs Challenge" to educate and preserve Saratoga’s mineral springs: https://lnkd.in/gKRkDBXi.

??? Do you own a home in a historic district listed on the National Register of Historic Places? Join us for "Offsetting Rehab Costs: Unlocking Historic Tax Credits" on Thursday, January 23, 2025, at 7 PM. Learn about tax credits that could cover 20% of eligible expenditures—up to $25,000! Whether you're eligible now or planning for the future, this virtual program will have valuable insights. To register, please visit https://lnkd.in/gnptYWi or call (518) 587-5030. All registrants will receive a Zoom link in advance and access to the program recording.?

Fun Fact Friday! ?? Did you know that the site of The Parting Glass at 40-42 Lake Avenue has been a lively hub of activity since the late 1800s? It originally housed a roller skating rink, as noted in an 1888 Troy Daily Times article, which also highlighted the earlier discovery of the Royal Spring beneath the building—a favorite drinking water for locals, according to a 1933 Saratogian article. ?? Over the years, this historic spot evolved from a roller skating rink to a spring drinking hall, then to the Royal Spring Bar & Grill, Rocco's Restaurant, and other establishments, before becoming The Parting Glass we know today!

We are celebrating another year of progress in preserving Saratoga Springs’ unique architectural, cultural, and landscaped heritage. While our accomplishments inspire us, there is still so much to do! From advocating for historic properties to hosting educational programs, providing technical assistance, and saving an endangered property, your support makes it all possible. A gift to our Annual Appeal helps ensure we can continue these vital efforts and protect the character of our community for generations to come. Join us in making a lasting impact before the year ends. Thanks to the generosity of four dedicated donors, every gift to our Annual Appeal will be matched up to $30,000! Make your contribution today to help preserve Saratoga Springs' unique heritage and double your impact. Don’t miss this opportunity—give before December 31st to ensure your support goes twice as far!

Fun Fact Friday: The site of the Bryan House, now home to the Olde Bryan Inn, is the oldest building site in the City of Saratoga Springs. ? ? In 1787, Alexander Bryan—a scout for General Gates, helped prepare troops for the first battle of the turning point of the Revolutionary War in 1777—built and operated an inn and tavern on this site. ? ? In 1832, Alexander’s son, John Bryan, constructed the current Federal-style stone building as his home. Since 1979, it has operated as a restaurant, maintaining both its rich history and architectural integrity.??

Exciting News! The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation is thrilled to announce the purchase of 128-130 Clinton Street, two historic cottages that have been on our endangered properties list for over a decade! ???? ? These unique homes, including Saratoga Springs' only shotgun-style house, represent a vital part of our city’s architectural and cultural heritage. Built by Dennis O’Brien in the late 1800s, they housed laborers, teamsters, and more—key contributors to our community’s history.?? ? Thanks to incredible support from our volunteers and generous donors, we're beginning the journey to revitalize these historic gems. From clearing debris to planning restoration, the work is already underway.?? ? This project embodies our commitment to preserving Saratoga’s small but significant historic homes—and we can’t do it without you!??? ? Join us on this preservation journey! Donate to the Clinton Street Comeback Campaign and follow our progress at saratogapreservation.org or call (518) 587-5030. ? ? ?

If you haven’t made your reservations yet, there’s still time! Next Thursday, December 12, join the Foundation at Scallions Restaurant (44 Lake Avenue) for a special Dine to Donate event. From 5 PM to close, 10% of all food and beverage sales—including dine-in and takeout—will be donated to support the Foundation’s mission—call (518) 584 - 0192 to make your reservations. Enjoy a fantastic meal while contributing to a great cause. We hope to see you there!

Happy Giving Tuesday from the Foundation!? ? Join us at 7 PM for a special virtual program, "Chestwood: 150 Years of History & Preservation," where we’ll explore the history and thoughtful preservation of Chestwood (@Chestwoodsaratoga), an impressive Second Empire residence at 432 Grand Avenue. Hosted by homeowners Kristi Krulcik and Marco Anichini, this program highlights the history and preservation of this notable home, offering an opportunity to learn and connect. ? ? This virtual program will take place via Zoom for a suggested donation of $10 or more. To register, visit https://lnkd.in/gnptYWi or call (518) 587-5030. Everyone who pre-registers for this program will be emailed a Zoom link in advance and will receive a link to the recording.

Happy Thanksgiving from the Foundation! Thank you for helping make this year such a success. The Saratoga Springs Preservation Foundation Board of Directors and staff are so grateful for your support!