Join us to see why preservation matters in Palm Springs
Our desert communities are so fortunate to have citizens, leaders and organizations that are passionate about preserving our community’s legacy.
It’s proven that preservation has a growing public and economic benefit. While new areas of bustling hotels, shopping and dining have been developed in recent years, historic preservation has stimulated thoughtful changes.
To learn about such topics, the Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board will present its annual "Preservation Matters" symposium on April 23 and 24 at the Convention Center. This year’s theme is “Historical and Architectural Diversity.”
The event is free to the public by registering at EventBrite.com or PalmSpringsCA.gov, where you will find a link to registration “In the Spotlight.”
During these two afternoons, hosts Trina Turk and Jade Nelson will introduce 15 sessions that reveal behind-the-scenes stories that embrace preservation and celebrate the City of Palm Springs’ rich historical, cultural, and architectural heritage.
These narratives will be presented by experts and scholars, many of whom live locally. One compelling presentation will focus on the architecture of the “Palm Springs School” that has sparked a current dynamic preservation movement and a commitment to design excellence.
Other highlights include interior/exterior views of private spaces such as estates beyond the Southridge gate; actor Randolph Scott’s secluded residence; houses by Charles E. Du Bois that are more than just an “A” frame; and what the Aluminaire House means to our community.
And, to round out the program, there will be a comprehensive review of newly designated properties in a descriptive and illustrated presentation.
Participants will also learn about preserving The Town & Country Center in downtown Palm Springs along with the fascinating history of the historic Plaza Theatre — and plans for its restoration and its future.
The discussion will continue with the significance of preservation through education and how it spans from the sixth grade to college students. Attendees will also view exceptional architectural models created by students from St. Theresa School, Nellie Coffman Middle School, Palm Springs High School and College of the Desert.
The symposium acknowledges that preservation is not only about researching, saving and maintaining historic buildings or sites, but also a matter of recognizing the people that have contributed to the development of our community.
Mayor Lisa Middleton will present awards to two extraordinary members of the preservation community: the “Preservation Matters Award” to Dick Burkett and the “Certificate of Recognition” to Steven Keylon.
Preservation brings tremendous public and economic benefit to our citizens, and in a way, I would say that preservation drives our economy.
One example is Modernism Week, which attracts people from all over the globe. Its many events generate revenues from ticket sales, fundraising and donations that enable partner organizations to fund civic improvements and preserve historic buildings — the Plaza Theatre being one example.
Katherine Hough is chair of the Palm Springs Historic Site Preservation Board and retired chief curator of the Palm Springs Art Museum.
This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Join us to see why preservation matters in Palm Springs
