OUR HISTORY
Since 1998, Townscape has been committed to improving our community. Here is a selection of some of Townscape’s past works.
Millerton Clocktower Restoration
In 1903, Julius Benedict, a prominent businessman, generously donated funds to erect a grange hall and clocktower for the people of Millerton. Over 100 years later, the tower and its internal mechanism needed repair. Townscape, along with the Moviehouse and the Village of Millerton, raised funds for the restoration. Carol Sadlon, former owner of the Moviehouse, was an instrumental partner in this endeavor as she was able to secure a sizable grant from Hudson River Valley Greenway. To celebrate the refurbished clocktower, we held a re-dedication event where guests enjoyed hors d’oeuvres, a historical exhibit, and speakers, including Donna Hudak, the great, great grandniece of Julius Benedict. It was a wonderful example of a community gathering harkening back to the building’s original purpose.
Bringing Community Together
For Townscape, fundraising can be a community event to reconnect with and enjoy the company of neighbors. The beautiful gathering at Elm Glen Farm was one such occasion. To celebrate the publication of Mary Randolph Carter’s book, For the Love of the Old, Carter opened her delightful, historic farmhouse to guests. Visitors enjoyed wine and tea, and snacked on treats while perusing her barn sale of antiques. Carter signed book copies, supplied by Oblong Books, and Harney & Son’s Teas introduced their “Millerton Tea Blend” featuring a commemorative label of the newly-restored clocktower. This was a unique and fun way to bring community together.
Registry of Historic Places
Townscape methodically researched properties along Millerton’s Main Street and concluded that their history, in the areas of commerce, culture, transportation, and architecture were significant. These findings allowed the National Registry of Historic Places to add Millerton’s Main Street to its list. In 2010, Millerton’s downtown was officially designated a Historic District.
Princeton Elm Trees
If you only know one thing about Townscape, it may be our dedication to planting trees in the town and village. A wonderful example of this is the Princeton elm trees we planted. We took care in selecting this species (a.k.a. the American Elm) for its ability to grow well in urban areas, to resist Dutch Elm disease, and to grow to an impressive height of 80 feet. In 2007, an elm was planted at the head of the Rail Trail by the Irondale Schoolhouse. In 2009, two more elms were planted on Main Street for an Arbor Day event, organized by Townscape and the Village of Millerton.
Photograph by Chris Kennan
Film Screening
Townscape, in its passion for trees and desire to connect with the bygone elm-lined streets of old Millerton, screened a free documentary at the Millerton Moviehouse: The American Elm: Majestic, Imperiled, Renewed. Directed and produced by Daniel C. Smith and co-produced by Catherine A. Smith, the film chronicles the rich legacy of America’s best-loved tree, its decimation from Dutch elm disease, and the discovery of new, disease-tolerant elms.
Flower, Flowers, Flowers
From its inception, Townscape envisioned creating a beautiful village with flowers. Our founders, Catherine Fenn, Jan Gilmor, and Renee Vollen, were passionate about bringing community together and making Millerton a beautiful place. We have been the green thumb behind the gloriously colored flowerpots and boxes located on Main Street and the Webatuck bridge, as well as the bold, patriotic flora ensconcing the Veterans’ Memorial. With the benches, tables, and chairs that we have provided, Townscape has helped to create a cherished community space for all to enjoy.
Community Events
Townscape relies on the generosity of our community to support our work. In turn, we have enthusiastically supported our community by gathering people together for fun events. Over the years, we have found many occasions to do just that: Earth Day and Arbor Day celebrations with plantings and film screenings, pasta dinner to celebrate seniors and veterans of American Legion Post 178, and for those who love of a good time, a Valentine’s Day party with food and dancing . . . just to name a few.
Redesigning Webatuck Bridge
Townscape collaborated with the Department of Transportation to create an attractive design for the reconstruction of the bridge over Webatuck Creek. Without our guidance, DOT would have, by default, selected an industrial and utilitarian bridge-wall design. With input from Townscape, Millerton received an attractive alternative with open spaces to view the Webatuck Creek that rushes below.
Please Have a Seat
Park benches may not be unique features in towns and cities, but our benches are unique. Each Townscape bench is dedicated to a cherished person, most are donated by family or friends and dedicated to remembering a loved one. Townscape has been instrumental in securing and installing those benches. We have also donated benches to the community. A lovely example of this is the four benches honoring Mariley Najdek. Mariley was not only the Mayor of Millerton and a Townscape board member, but a beloved friend and neighbor, and a vital part of our community. With our encouragement, several organizations donated benches in her name. These can be found throughout the village.
Envisioning an Improved Village
Townscape worked closely with the Dutchess County Planning Department on a conceptual plan for improvements along Main Street. The plan incorporates infrastructure improvements, like new sidewalks and crossings, and new lighting fixtures within the historic business district. It includes the addition of benches, tables and chair in Veterans Park, offering a space for people to gather and community events to take place. There are design elements featured in the plan, such as the faux architectural painting on the Antique Center. The plan also encourages more planted trees along the street and a pleasant area at the head of the Rail Trail for relaxing and enjoying the comforts of a small town.