1986 - THE FIRST TRUE RESTORATION WORK BEGINS
The work on the mansion’s six chimneys was the first true restoration project at Wilderstein (as opposed to emergency repairs) and was the first step in a multi-year effort to make the main house watertight.
Then board president Wint Aldridge took stock of Wilderstein’s recent accomplishments: “The chimneys on the main house are under contract to be stabilized, the Vaux trails are being re-established by volunteers, we now have tenants at the Lodge, the immense American Linden on the east lawn is in fragrant bloom, and our gentle patron, Miss Suckley is serving tea—as always.”
Pictured, the task at hand: detail of the unrestored chimneys.