Easements!!
The spectacular, sweeping lawn of the former Home of Divine
Providence, on West Chestnut Hill Avenue, will now be forever
protected from commercial development, thanks to a recently
completed conservation easement on the property. The arduous
task of finalizing the easement was completed on November
2 by the current owner, vBanc, a subsidiary of USABanc-Shares.com.
Under the terms of the agreement, there will be controls on
the intensity of office use in the mansion, limits on the
number of employees, car trips and parking spaces, and restrictions
on any additional construction. It also encourages the 6.77
acres property to revert to residential when it is sold.
In
a second stroke of good fortune, an easement on one of the
most important facades in Chestnut Hill was donated to the
Historical Society in late 2000. The house, a great 1854 Victorian
Italianate structure, was featured in architect Samuel Sloane's
1852 pattern book, The Model Architect. While there have been
some additions over the years, much of the original façade
remains intact. It is by far the best existing example of
the Italianate style in Chestnut Hill and perhaps in the region!
These two easements affirm how important the CHHS easement
program is in preserving open space and key historic structures
in Chestnut Hill. (link to easement tab??)
Preservation Potpourri a Rockin' Success
The Historical Society's annual gala was held in October 2000.
Over 270 people attended the 1950's-themed event, which was
held at The Venetian Club in Chestnut Hill. People, many who
were exquisitely costumed in vintige1950's cocktail attire,
enjoyed dinner and dancing in a fabulous celebration of rock
'n roll exuberance. This late Autum event is the major fundraiser
for the Chestnut Hill Historical Society.
Volunteers and Equipment Needed
CHHS is currently seeking volunteers to help catalog new items
in the Collection, as well as people interested in helping
to organize lectures, tours and programs.
CHHS also is in need of new Mac-compatible computers.
If you can help, please contact the office at (215) 247-0417.
