Renovation Update

                                 


If you have not been to the Estate lately, you may appreciate an update on the progress of the work.  First, the bridge to the tower is still in place.  The contractor is having some difficulty in arranging for the large crane necessary to do the job, but it is hoped to be accomplished by the end of the work week, maybe.  The pond in front of the house has been completely removed, new plumbing installed to keep a water flow in the new pond and a new concrete liner with 18" depth has been constructed. The elevation of the yard in front of the house will next be lowered to its original level in relation to the house and the Foster House.  Then the rest of the circular driveway can be completed.

The area on the front of the house is very torn up and care needs to be extended when walking guests anywhere in this area . The driveway surface is chewed up and muddy; there are level lines and stakes all around; and if you can run your tours by using the new concrete and sidewalk to the rear of the Foster House, it may be advantageous.  Docents are advised to arrive earlier than their scheduled tour and scout out the area first to be familiar with what the correct situation is. I had a woman on one of my tours fall today on a loose piece of flagstone knocked out of place by a construction vehicle, so be extremely watchful and at the start of tours at the model advise guests of the need to be careful on their tour.

Despite all the torn earth and construction debris, the house looked gorgeous in the setting late afternoon sun when I left at 4 pm.   And, when all is done, it will look even better.

IMPORTANT: PLEASE LEAD VISITORS TO THE RIGHT OF THE FOSTER HOUSE (IF YOU ARE FACING THE LAKE,) ON THE NEW SIDEWALKS, TO GET TO THE HOUSE.

ALSO IMPORTANT:  THIS RESTORATION PROJECT WILL BE COMPLETED BY THE END OF JUNE AT THE VERY LATEST...MORE LIKELY,WITHIN A COUPLE OF WEEKS.  PLEASE MAKE SURE TO MENTION THIS--PERHAPS A COUPLE OF TIMES--DURING YOUR TOURS.  (Otherwise, word will spread that the grounds are all torn up, and people will think it will be like that all season.)  Thanks!