Fallingwater Entrusted to WPC 40 Years Ago Today

Today's photo was taken at the dedication ceremony held on October 29, 1963, when Edgar Kaufmann, jr., (seen at far right) gives the title of Fallingwater to WPC President Dr. Charles F. Lewis (far left). Standing between them are Governor William Scranton and his wife Mary.

Edgar Kaufmann, jr., in entrusting Fallingwater to Western Pennsylvania Conservancy noted, "Fallingwater was created by Frank Lloyd Wright as a declaration that in nature man finds his spiritual as well as his physical energies." His gift was lauded by the architectural community as a commendable act of preservation during a time in which many Wright-designed buildings were being demolished or in serious states of disrepair.

This was of such national significance that President John F. Kennedy sent the following proclamation to be read on that late October morning.

"The vigor of Wright's architecture and the richness of Fallingwater's spectacular natural setting combine to form a distinctive public legacy. The nation and especially the people of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania owe the Kaufmanns a debt of deep gratitude."

One cannot help but attach a sadness to his words, given the historical context that this would be among his last such correspondences.

Fallingwater is open to the public on Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. through the Thanksgiving weekend. In the beginning of December, it is open on weekends only (weather permitting), then open all days between Christmas and New Year's Day. Fallingwater closes in January and February. More on visiting Fallingwater

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