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Ed Cunicelli
transformational support .
“ When I think about Penny Wilson ’ s decades-long philanthropic investment in Natural Lands , two words come to the fore : inspired and transformational ,” said Natural Lands president Oliver Bass . “ She is one-of-a-kind .”
Over the last 15 years , Penny has provided leadership gifts that have anchored campaigns to expand our headquarters , build endowment for unendowed and under-endowed preserves , and extend organizational capacity for stewarding natural resources and connecting people to the outdoors — all transformational .
But just as importantly , Penny ’ s leadership — sometimes in the form of outright challenges and other times as distinguished example — has inspired others . “ It is hard to overstate the impact that Penny has had on our fundraising ,” shared Ann Hausmann , vice president of development . “ She has helped lay foundations — both literally and figuratively — that will safeguard our mission into the future .”
Penny ’ s most recent act of generosity has made it possible for us to restore the Ralston House at Bryn Coed Preserve , including endowment to guarantee its ongoing maintenance . “ I have a passion for the natural and built historic world ,” said Penny . “ It has been gratifying for me to partner with Natural Lands over the years to ensure the preservation of both . I couldn ’ t be more excited about the Ralston House restoration , but I ’ ve seen the project list and there is much more to do at Bryn Coed Preserve . I hope my commitment to this special property will encourage others to share their support as well .”
If you would like to learn more about preserve infrastructure gift opportunities at Bryn Coed , please contact Ann Hausmann at hausmann @ natlands . org . original details , such as mantels , random-width flooring , and doors .
“ Remarkably , the interior of the house has retained its structural and historical integrity ,” said Peter Zimmerman , a member of Natural Lands ’ President ’ s Council and professional architect who is overseeing the Ralston House renovations .
While the building is in surprisingly good condition , it has been vacant for some time . “ There was quite a bit of deferred maintenance over the years ,” said Steve Longenecker , director of building stewardship . “ Given the history of this property , we don ’ t just want to renovate the house . We want to restore it .”
Major work will focus on removing the stucco and repointing the original stone façade ; installing a new septic system ; upgrading heating , plumbing , and electrical systems ; renovating the kitchen and bathrooms ; and replacing the roof and windows .
All work will be conducted with sensitivity to the historical nature of the building . Additionally , Natural Lands is working with the West Vincent Township Historical Commission , which has already documented and photographed the farmhouse and outbuildings .
Sub-contractors will do the bulk of the work , but Natural Lands ’ talented building stewardship staff will lend their skills to portions of the Ralston House project . They have an outstanding track record ; most recently , the team finished a six-year complete restoration of an 1817 farmhouse at Crow ’ s Nest Preserve , just about 10 miles north-east of Bryn Coed . Highlights of their work on that building include uncovering and restoring the walk-in fireplace