Liz Waytkus
“Reclaiming Identity, Place Attachment and Community in Cohoes, New York”
The paper examines the issues facing the City of Cohoes, New York and how the lack of identity and negative place attachment has lead to its numerous ills. It reviews the importance of civic engagement, streetscape, distinctiveness, stronger historic property laws and an overall plan for its future in both the short-term and long-term.

This summer I spent my days hop-scotching between the US chapter of DOCOMOMO (DOcumentation and COnservation of buildings, sites and neighborhoods of the MOdern MOvement) and the New York-based World Monuments Fund, an organization dedicated to preserving and protecting endangered ancient and historic sites. My interest in the Modern Movement lead me to each organization, and I’ve had a full summer researching and preparing summaries of endangered buildings both in the United States and throughout the world.

As the Modernism Intern at World Monuments Fund I spent my days reviewing former Watch list sites to see what has become of these important treasures. Issued every two years, the World Monuments Watch calls international attention to cultural heritage around the world that is threatened by neglect, vandalism, conflict, or disaster. Many of the sites I worked with had an extensive archive of communications and documents, and together with recent news and press releases, I enjoyed my task putting the pieces of the story together. I was surprised to discover the Modern Movement extending as far as Eritrea in northern Africa, and inspired by the lengths and depths local communities go to save their heritage.

My work in the DOCOMOMO US office allowed me the unique opportunity to interact with some of the nation’s leading architects, academics and historic preservation professionals in the country. From organizing national events, managing the national office, to researching, writing and editing the new DOCOMOMO US monthly e-news brief, I enjoyed being involved in so many facets of the organization. I am continuing my work with DOCOMOMO US through the fall semester and am looking forward to our upcoming national Tour Day on October 9, 2010.

And if two internships were not enough, in late July I took on the cause to save a 1941 John Eberson theatre in Cohoes, NY. Although the fate of the theatre is still in question, I am hopeful for a positive outcome. For more on my cause visit the blog.