What We're Thankful For

At this time of year preservationists should count among their blessings our landmarks law. We must also honor the old maxim: to whom much is given, much is expected. Even at the law's passage, it was recognized that the creation of the law did not end the landmark struggle. In June of 1965 Edward R. Finch, Jr., the counsel of the Municipal Art Society wrote in the Society's newsletter, "We have won an important legislative battle but it is not the end of the Landmark's war by any means. Vigilance is the price of preservation." The New York Times echoed these sentiments in its editorial, "A Landmark Law," April 27, 1965. "After a long hard fight that was going on while historic buildings were being knocked down like ten-pins, New York finally has a landmarks preservation law. The law is an immense achievement, but it gives no guarantee that anything can be saved. It is only a protective tool to make historic and esthetic preservation possible."

The landmark's war still rages and depends on an engaged citizenry. If you care about New York's landmarks, both the protected and unprotected, join our efforts to save the integrity of the landmarks law. Even with the law, saving buildings is a struggle, but without it, you know the answer. The emergency facing the LPC calls us all to action. It is our responsibility to be vigilant--this is not a time for armchair preservationists and fair weather activists--the times require us to be bold. E-mail us with your thoughts on how to advance our three plank platform for reform.