News Release

December 23, 1999

Efforts to Preserve Several Newport, Rhode Island, Historic Structures Receive Boost From $500,000 Gift to Save America’s Treasures

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Several of Newport, Rhode Island’s most historic structures received an unexpected windfall on December 21 when Newport resident Elizabeth Meyer donated $500,000 to four local charities. The gifts, which were made to official Save America’s Treasures projects, were given in honor of United States Senators Claiborne Pell and the late John H. Chafee. Recipients of the gifts were as follows: the Redwood Library, Touro Synagogue, the schooner Coronet at the International Yacht Restoration School (IYRS), and the Griswold House at the Newport Art Museum.

In a letter to each organization, Meyer said, "I am delighted to be able to support the national Save America’s Treasures program and to honor two of my state’s greatest patriots. To me, Senator Claiborne Pell, a Democrat, and Senator John H. Chafee, a Republican, each represent supreme examples of everything a statesman should be — intelligent, thoughtful, educated, moderate, self-effacing, morally brave, dedicated and effective." In recognizing the donations, Senator Claiborne Pell said that he was delighted to be honored "in this wonderful way. I believe the designated charities are truly deserving and I know that I am deeply touched at Elizabeth Meyer’s generosity."

"This marvelous gift from Elizabeth Meyer is cause for celebration by all Americans who care about preserving the best of our past," said First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton. "It represents exactly the sort of response that the President and I hoped the Save America's Treasures program would generate — and it is a particularly appropriate way to honor two distinguished public servants and long-time champions of protecting our irreplaceable heritage for future generations."

Representatives of each organization applauded the gifts and the spirit in which they were made.

IYRS President Ruth Taylor and John S. Johnson, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees: "Rhode Island is fortunate to count Elizabeth E. Meyer, a lady of great distinction, as one of its citizens. Her contributions, both financial and in spirit, assist this historic community to perpetuate several important and valuable institutions — thoughtful and responsible government, historic preservation in all its diversity, and the grand tradition of Newport philanthropy."

Christine Callahan, Executive Director of the Newport Art Museum: "Elizabeth Meyer’s generosity demonstrates an extraordinary understanding of the importance these treasures play in our community’s cultural character. We are pleased to be the recipient of a gift that also honors two great Rhode Island statesmen."

Speaking on behalf of the Redwood Library, Mathews Dick, President of the Board of Directors, and Cheryl Helms, Director: "This gift is truly a magnificent gesture in honor of the vision and dedication of two of Rhode Island’s most beloved statesmen. Thank you for helping us preserve the physical embodiment of the vision, the dreams and the idealism that created these four American treasures."

Andrew M. Teitz, President and B. Schlessinger Ross, Director of the Society of Friends of Touro Synagogue: "As a civic leader and preservationist, Ms. Meyer has had a long personal and professional commitment to historic preservation. Her gift to Newport’s four "treasures" will help ensure that these enduring symbols of our American heritage are properly preserved and protected for future generations."

The John N.A.Griswold House at the Newport Art Museum is considered one of the finest examples of American Stick Style architecture, designed by architect Richard Morris Hunt and built in 1864. The Redwood Library, designed by Peter Harrison, America’s most famous 18^th century architect, and constructed between 1748 and 1750, is the country’s oldest lending library. Touro Synagogue, the oldest synagogue in the Untied States, also designed by Harrison, is a symbol of religious freedom for all Americans. Coronet, a 133’ schooner yacht designed and built in New York City in 1885, is America’s most historic sailing yacht.

Save Americas Treasures is a partnership between the White House Millennium Council and the National Trust for Historic Preservation, dedicated to recognizing and rescuing the enduring symbols of American tradition that define us as a nation. Led by Honorary Chair Hillary Rodham Clinton, Save America’s Treasures increases public awareness about the need to protect America’s diverse cultural heritage and encourages support for local preservation projects. In 18 months the program has designated 439 Official Projects, and generated more than $38 million in private funds for preservation.

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