Historic Preservation “Season” 2010
Declared in Alameda
Devotees of vintage buildings on the Island are invited to activities reveling in the preservation of our architectural heritage. So many events are scheduled that the City Council is declaring March through June “Historic Preservation Season!” With more than 10,000 vintage structures, Alameda has a lot to show off. From those gingerbread Victorians, those delirious Queen Annes, those comfy Craftsman homes, and those sturdy Bungalows to the Art Deco of the Alameda Theater and the Art Moderne out at Alameda Point, these rich and varied styles of architecture enrich and enliven our Island hometown.
Three organizations that thrive on history--the City Historic Advisory Board, the Alameda Architectural Preservation Society (AAPS) and the Alameda Museum --have organized all manner of presentations, walks, lectures, and tours to help people understand, recognize, and enjoy evidence of our past. The business community is also involved, and co sponsors include the Alameda Association of Realtors, the Alameda Sun, the Chamber of Commerce, the Greater Alameda Business Association (GABA), the Park Street Business Association (PSBA), and the West Alameda Business Association (WABA)
Vintage buildings are tangible evidence of history readily available to us all. Local author Woody Minor describes Alameda as an open air museum, “Want to see history? Just walk outside and look around!” You can join architect-raconteur Richard Rutter in a “Fernside Ramble,” a guided walk through that special but mysterious neighborhood. A sojourner from the ethereal zone will appear May 1, when Queen Victoria inspects the artwork of elementary students who are studying the history, homes, and culture of Alameda. Dynamic slide lectures by local experts include Paul Roberts on Victorian styles, author Paul Duchsherer on Bungalow offspring, and Ken Matthias on Alameda’s colorful antique windows. Historic Preservation Season 2010 culminates with the 13th annual AAPS Historic Preservation Awards, highlighted by dramatic before and after images of acclaimed restoration projects.
Celebrate the legacy of historic preservation and restoration in Alameda! For additional information, visit these websites: alameda-home-tour.org; alamedamuseum.org; and alameda-preservation.org. Or leave a message at 748.0796 to receive a leaflet with dates and times.
Celebrate Historic Preservation Season 2010 in Alameda
Tuesday March 2, 7:30 p.m.: City Council proclaims Historic Preservation Season 2010.
Thursday March 11, 7:00 p.m.: Researcher-architecture buff Paul Roberts, “What is a Stick? A Guide to Victorian Styles,” sponsored by the Alameda Architectural Preservation Society (AAPS), Immanuel Lutheran Church, Santa Clara Avenue and Lafayette Street. Free for AAPS members; $5 for others. Information: 479.6489.
Thursday March 25, 2010: Author-designer Paul Duchsherer: “Beyond the Bungalow.” Sponsored by Michael Studebaker and Cynthia Audet, owners, Gallagher & Lindsey, Inc., Realtors. Alameda Museum, 2324 Alameda Avenue. Free for Museum members; $5 for others. Information: 748.0796.
Saturday, April 24, 1:00-4:00 p.m.: “Where History Lives,” Meyers House Museum, 2021 Alameda Avenue, admission $5. For information call 523.5907.
Thursday April 29, 7:00 p.m.: “History of the Alameda Naval Air Station,” a slide lecture by Richard Rutter. Sponsored by Judith Lynch, member, Historical Advisory Board. Alameda Museum, 2324 Alameda Avenue. Free for Museum members; $5 for others. Information: 748.0796.
Saturday May 1, 11:00 a.m.-noon: “Kids & Queen Victoria,” thirteenth annual art show with work from Alameda elementary students; opening reception featuring Queen Victoria herself. (Practice your bow or curtsy!) Alameda Museum, 2324 Alameda Avenue. Sponsored by the Historical Advisory Board and the Alameda Museum. Free. Information: 748.0796.
Saturday, May 22, 1:00-4:00 p.m.: “Where History Lives,” Meyers House Museum, 2021 Alameda Avenue, admission $5. Information: 523.5907.
Thursday May 28: “Glorious Glass of Alameda” a slide lecture by Ken Matthias. Sponsored by Ginger Schuler, member, Alameda Museum Board; Realtor, Harbor Bay. Alameda Museum, 2324 Alameda Avenue. Free for members, $5 for others. Information: 748.0796.
Date and location TBA, 7:00 p.m.: Thirteenth Annual “Historic Preservation Awards,” sponsored by the Alameda Architectural Preservation Society (AAPS). Free. Information: 479.6489.
Saturday, June 19, 11:00 a.m., free. "Two Fernsides, the Estate and the Neighborhood." Meet at Santa Clara Avenue and Gibbons Drive for a walk led by Alameda Sun editor Dennis Evanosky and architect Richard Rutter. Sponsored by the Historical Advisory Board. Information: 748-0796.