Edward G. Udell, Sr., community consultant with the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum in Houston, Texas has been selected for the second year in a row as a Diversity Scholar with the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Ed will be attending the 2009 National Preservation Conference in Nashville, Tennessee October 12 - 16 where he will unveil the "Save The Armory" Project.
The web site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation tells their story: The National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership, education, advocacy, and resources to save America's diverse historic places and revitalize our communities. On his own, Ed Udell had been helping in several other cities with saving properties and doing community clean-up. His most recent project before working with the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum was helping with clean-up efforts resulting from Hurricane Rita and Hurricane Katrina. He spent almost 8 months away from Houston, actually living in a warehouse or sleeping in damaged hotels in order to help with those clean-up challenges.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation is a private, nonprofit membership organization dedicated to saving historic places and revitalizing America's communities. Recipient of the National Humanities Medal, the Trust was founded in 1949 and provides leadership, education, advocacy, and resources to protect the irreplaceable places that tell America's story. Staff at the Washington, DC, headquarters, six regional offices and 29 historic sites work with the Trust's 270,000 members and thousands of preservation groups in all 50 states.
The need for the National Trust for Historic Preservation has increased since its founding in 1949. When historic buildings and neighborhoods are torn down or allowed to deteriorate, a part of our past disappears forever. When that happens, we lose history that helps us know who we are, and we lose opportunities to live and work in the kinds of interesting and attractive surroundings that older buildings can provide. The historic Houston Light Guard Armory has rich history that must be shared. When restoration is completed, it will also provide needed space for the expansion of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum's exhibits, and educational and community outreach programs.
Other information from the National Trust for Historic Preservation talks about the Diversity Scholarship Program: Since 1992, the Diversity Scholarship Program (DSP) has provided financial assistance (which can covers registration and shared lodging) to more than 1,100 individuals from diverse racial, ethnic, economic and cultural backgrounds. The goal of the Diversity Scholarship Program is to increase the diversity of participants at the annual National Preservation Conference and in the preservation movement. The Program provides financial assistance to approximately 60 community leaders from diverse social, economic, racial, ethnic and cultural backgrounds to attend the National Preservation Conference. Through interactive sessions, presentations, informal gatherings, and tours of the host city and surrounding areas, participants will learn the necessary tools to strengthen their commitment and effectiveness in preserving historic places and revitalizing communities.
The National Trust seeks culturally diverse applicants whose attendance at the Conference will benefit their communities and whose commitment to historic preservation will be reinforced by their participation. Recipients will have an opportunity to express their perspectives during the Conference and to take advantage of National Trust programs after the Conference. The balance to cover Mr. Udell's participation in the Conference will come from those who donate to the general operating expenses of the museum. Ed is trusting that several will step forward and help the museum with this opportunity by contacting the museum before he leaves the morning of October 12th.
Melissa Thibodeaux, professional actress and storyteller with the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, encouraged Mr. Udell to apply for a diversity scholarship in 2008. He applied and was selected. While attending the conference in Tulsa, Oklahoma, birthplace of his mother, he attended several workshops and made several field trips to learn more about preserving America's heritage. Ed made some friends and began to share with them the need to save the historic Houston Light Guard Armory in Houston. Over the years, transients have occupied the armory, and the elements, including Hurricane Ike, have wrecked havoc on the building. Prior to the sale of the building to the city by the State of Texas, Houston Community College used the site for storage.
The Houston Light Guard Armory, built in 1925, is one of the oldest National Guard companies in the state of Texas, and was chartered in April 21, 1873---San Jacinto Day. In 1938, The Houston Light Guard's Veterans Association relinquished the property to the state. At one time, the militia attached to the armory had the top drilling militia unit in the nation. This history must be preserved and shared with future generations. Thanks to the Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation, Houston Endowment, The Brown Foundation, Chevron Oil Company, Shell Oil Company, Marathon Oil Company, the "Preservation Fund" of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, and other local businesses, the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum was able to purchase the armory, hire engineering and architectural teams, complete artistic renderings, submit architectural plans for approval, and cover some preliminary research and staffing.
Before the economic downturn, members of the Greater Houston Partnership, Houston's local chamber of commerce, and several groups had voiced their support of the project. The museum was looking forward to receiving the $4.1 million necessary to do the major renovations of the armory. After the downturn, early supporters had to put the armory on hold. However, Houston Community College had already signed on to lease space from the museum to offer some special classes in "Global Studies," beginning in 2010---the renovations had to be started soon.
The founder of the museum, Captain Paul J. Matthews, was not deterred by the economic downturn; he developed Plan B. This plan would be carried out by the museum's first paid executive director, Mrs. Cherrie Washington. It entails 8,000 bricks being made available as memorial bricks for the outdoor Soldiers Plaza to honor all veterans. This paver program has bricks that are standard and crimson, and pavers made of granite. The plan involves getting people to invest in the bricks and pavers as a way to honor veterans and others. When many of the bricks and pavers have been sponsored, the contractor will begin the renovations, with the knowledge funding will continue. Also, a private source is considering putting up some funds so the project does not lose momentum in the midst of current economic challenges.
When Mr. Udell unveils the "Save The Armory Project" in Nashville in October, he is hoping to connect with new funders, as well as encourage many to at least invest in a brick or a paver. Between now and November 1, 2010 his challenge is to raise $1 million to ensure the project stays on track. This means 1,000 donors can invest in a $1,000 granite paver; several companies can give $100,000 or more each; and two or three foundations can step forward with a $250,000 or $500,000 grant.
Anyone interested in participating in the "Save The Armory Project," can contact Ed by calling the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum office at 713-942-8920.
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Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Investing in Christian Community Development
Thanks to all of my family and friends who have supported me in my ministry and community projects. I could not have helped all the children and families that I have helped without the support of many of you.
The love of God and my concern for community work was inherited from my mother, Mother Cassie Mae Roland Udell McCain. She inherited such love and concern from her father, the late Elder L.W. (Buddy) Roland. The world is a better place because of their love for other people. I trust that what I do will bring honor to them and reflect my relationship to/with God.
As we go into the holiday season, think of what you can do for the world to make a difference. I am involved in several projects that could use a Gideon Army. Let me list several examples.
There are widows I know needing help just to pay their rent, buy food, and take care of their health. These widows were married to men, some were ministers and pastors, who did their best to take care of their wife and their family. However, when they died, an economic gap was left that needs to be filled. One widow has to move for the fifth time since her husband died. If we had 10 people who could give $35 a month, she could stay where she is and not go through the agonizing challenge of moving this week. Another widow recently had her income drop about $400 a month. 20 people giving $20 a month could make sure she continues to live where she is and maintain her health. And yet another widow is living in a house that is practically falling apart around her, but it is the home her husband left her. 30 people giving $40 a month would help her fix up her home. She could then stay in the home, assured that it would not fall down around her. Or, she could fix up the home, sell it, and have income when it’s time for her to move into a place for independent living and/or assisted living.
Then there are the abused women and children needing a safe place to live, surrounded by love and well-trained security people. If they were provided for, we could stop the flow of generational curses affecting them. Their children would be provided with tutors, good nutritious meals, and an environment that would help ensure them becoming productive and able to reach their potential. Crime could be cut 50%. This project could use 100 people investing $50 monthly to provide for a place.
Some of our community work involves Christian insight and help with community development. Many young people could benefit from having a safe place to study and an opportunity to develop work skills. There are older people needing help cleaning their home, driving them to church and doctor’s appointments, and help getting groceries and preparing their meals. 40 people giving $30 monthly would go a long ways to help.
Then there are the projects of culture and learning. There is a ranch where families could learn about ranch life, cowboys, cowgirls, and how those skills could help in their development as they look after animals and raise food. There is a Christian family who has 100 acres who want to turn part of their land into a Christian wilderness training camp where urban youth could come and learn life skills while cutting down trees, building cabins, and learning about the great outdoors. This project needs 40 people investing $100 monthly which will also provide a retreat center for them for life.
There are museums that need to be built. One is a national museum that recognizes the accomplishments of African Americans in the military. This museum serves over 40,000 people annually. They recently purchased an historic armory that will be preserved and allow the museum to serve over 100,000 people every year. While it would be great if 8,000 people invested $1,000 in a memorial brick, if just 60 people donated $30 monthly, it would help us continue to serve to help find those 8,000 people and continue to raise funds for the ongoing support of this museum. Later, more support would help in our quest to help other community museums and to build cultural centers.
Yes, a Gideon Army of 300 people giving monthly could affect a lot of change in America and bring a boatload of happiness to many people. Those who would be helped would in turn learn how to help others as they developed their potential. Out of these helped could come preachers, teachers, business owners, honest politicians, corporate leaders, lawyers, missionaries, and more.
If you would like to help, give your tax-deductible secure gift to:
BRIDGE MINISTRIES, INTERNATIONAL
A foundation of the National Heritage Foundation
http://nhfdonations.newc.com/default.cfm?Action=DonationsDetail&foundationID=126
and fill in the information.
Thank you!
Ed Udell, Sr.
The love of God and my concern for community work was inherited from my mother, Mother Cassie Mae Roland Udell McCain. She inherited such love and concern from her father, the late Elder L.W. (Buddy) Roland. The world is a better place because of their love for other people. I trust that what I do will bring honor to them and reflect my relationship to/with God.
As we go into the holiday season, think of what you can do for the world to make a difference. I am involved in several projects that could use a Gideon Army. Let me list several examples.
There are widows I know needing help just to pay their rent, buy food, and take care of their health. These widows were married to men, some were ministers and pastors, who did their best to take care of their wife and their family. However, when they died, an economic gap was left that needs to be filled. One widow has to move for the fifth time since her husband died. If we had 10 people who could give $35 a month, she could stay where she is and not go through the agonizing challenge of moving this week. Another widow recently had her income drop about $400 a month. 20 people giving $20 a month could make sure she continues to live where she is and maintain her health. And yet another widow is living in a house that is practically falling apart around her, but it is the home her husband left her. 30 people giving $40 a month would help her fix up her home. She could then stay in the home, assured that it would not fall down around her. Or, she could fix up the home, sell it, and have income when it’s time for her to move into a place for independent living and/or assisted living.
Then there are the abused women and children needing a safe place to live, surrounded by love and well-trained security people. If they were provided for, we could stop the flow of generational curses affecting them. Their children would be provided with tutors, good nutritious meals, and an environment that would help ensure them becoming productive and able to reach their potential. Crime could be cut 50%. This project could use 100 people investing $50 monthly to provide for a place.
Some of our community work involves Christian insight and help with community development. Many young people could benefit from having a safe place to study and an opportunity to develop work skills. There are older people needing help cleaning their home, driving them to church and doctor’s appointments, and help getting groceries and preparing their meals. 40 people giving $30 monthly would go a long ways to help.
Then there are the projects of culture and learning. There is a ranch where families could learn about ranch life, cowboys, cowgirls, and how those skills could help in their development as they look after animals and raise food. There is a Christian family who has 100 acres who want to turn part of their land into a Christian wilderness training camp where urban youth could come and learn life skills while cutting down trees, building cabins, and learning about the great outdoors. This project needs 40 people investing $100 monthly which will also provide a retreat center for them for life.
There are museums that need to be built. One is a national museum that recognizes the accomplishments of African Americans in the military. This museum serves over 40,000 people annually. They recently purchased an historic armory that will be preserved and allow the museum to serve over 100,000 people every year. While it would be great if 8,000 people invested $1,000 in a memorial brick, if just 60 people donated $30 monthly, it would help us continue to serve to help find those 8,000 people and continue to raise funds for the ongoing support of this museum. Later, more support would help in our quest to help other community museums and to build cultural centers.
Yes, a Gideon Army of 300 people giving monthly could affect a lot of change in America and bring a boatload of happiness to many people. Those who would be helped would in turn learn how to help others as they developed their potential. Out of these helped could come preachers, teachers, business owners, honest politicians, corporate leaders, lawyers, missionaries, and more.
If you would like to help, give your tax-deductible secure gift to:
BRIDGE MINISTRIES, INTERNATIONAL
A foundation of the National Heritage Foundation
http://nhfdonations.newc.com/default.cfm?Action=DonationsDetail&foundationID=126
and fill in the information.
Thank you!
Ed Udell, Sr.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Faithful Word Baptist Church,
I have tried, unsuccessfully, to get a message to the unsaved, unChristian, unlovely pastor of Faithful Word Baptist Church in Phoeniz, Arizona. So, I will address them through my blog here concerning their pastor's prayer that God kills President Obama:
I am so sorry that your pastor has not taught the congregation how to read the Bible according to the proven dictates of proven spiritual leaders, past and present. However, I am praying for your pastor---not to die---but to learn about the grace of God and His mercy to sinners such as President Obama and others who do not believe like your pastor.
Apparently, your pastor does not read the Bible with prayer to God for inspiration and understanding from the Holy Spirit. Oh, I'm sorry...your pastor probably does not even believe in the Holy Spirit!
Anyway, for the members of the church that don't know how to live out the name of their church, be encouraged. Be encouraged that others in the Body of Christ understands the frustrations of your pastor in having to be under a president who is probably not a fundamental Christian [whatever that means!].
For any members of your church who are interested in reading the Bible for a method of dealing with sinful presidents and others who do not line up EXACTLY the way they think other people should believe, I have help for them from the King James Version of the Holy Bible.
May God give you understanding:
And it came to pass, when the time was come that he [Jesus] should be received up, he [Jesus] stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem , And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him [Jesus]. And they did not receive him [Jesus], because his face was as though he [Jesus] would go to Jerusalem . And when his disciples James and John saw [this], they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he [Jesus] turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save [them]. And they went to another village. [Luke 9:51-56]
Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,--- even for a sinful President!
Hbr 12:14 Follow peace with all [men]{including President Obama}, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
1Ti 2:1 ¶ I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men;
1Ti 2:2 For kings [In America, this is President Obama], and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
1Ti 2:3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
1Ti 2:4 Who will have all men [including a live President Obama; not a dead one!] to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
Ed Udell, Sr.
A Servant of the Most High God
Houston, TX
I am so sorry that your pastor has not taught the congregation how to read the Bible according to the proven dictates of proven spiritual leaders, past and present. However, I am praying for your pastor---not to die---but to learn about the grace of God and His mercy to sinners such as President Obama and others who do not believe like your pastor.
Apparently, your pastor does not read the Bible with prayer to God for inspiration and understanding from the Holy Spirit. Oh, I'm sorry...your pastor probably does not even believe in the Holy Spirit!
Anyway, for the members of the church that don't know how to live out the name of their church, be encouraged. Be encouraged that others in the Body of Christ understands the frustrations of your pastor in having to be under a president who is probably not a fundamental Christian [whatever that means!].
For any members of your church who are interested in reading the Bible for a method of dealing with sinful presidents and others who do not line up EXACTLY the way they think other people should believe, I have help for them from the King James Version of the Holy Bible.
May God give you understanding:
And it came to pass, when the time was come that he [Jesus] should be received up, he [Jesus] stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem , And sent messengers before his face: and they went, and entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him [Jesus]. And they did not receive him [Jesus], because his face was as though he [Jesus] would go to Jerusalem . And when his disciples James and John saw [this], they said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did? But he [Jesus] turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know not what manner of spirit ye are of. For the Son of man is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save [them]. And they went to another village. [Luke 9:51-56]
Gal 5:22 But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,--- even for a sinful President!
Hbr 12:14 Follow peace with all [men]{including President Obama}, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
1Ti 2:1 ¶ I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men;
1Ti 2:2 For kings [In America, this is President Obama], and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
1Ti 2:3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
1Ti 2:4 Who will have all men [including a live President Obama; not a dead one!] to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
Ed Udell, Sr.
A Servant of the Most High God
Houston, TX
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Something Big from something small!
Press Release
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum October 8th Benefit Featuring Willard Wigan-Micro Sculptor
Houston, September 16, 2009: Micro sculptor Willard Wigan’s Art in the Eye of a Needle Exhibit Tour will be in Houston to raise funds for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum’s-“Leave-A-Legacy…Buy-A-Brick” Paver Program on Thursday October 8th at 6:00 PM at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. The event is open to the public.
Willard Wigan, MBE began his artistic life at a tender age. Suffering from dyslexia and learning difficulties, he struggled at school, finding solace in creating art of such minute proportions that it virtually could not be seen with the naked eye. Each piece commonly sits within the eye of a needle, or on a pin head. Willard’s work is described as “the eighth wonder of the world”. Willard has been featured on ABC News, 60 Minutes, The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien and numerous other television, radio and print media.
Join Willard Wigan, as we help save the historic Houston Light Guard Amory and secure a new home for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. For the past nine years the museum has stressed the importance of teaching the next generation the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. Now you can participate in the continuance of that history by participating in the “Leave-a-Legacy…Buy a Brick” paver program.
This program allows bricks to be dedicated in honor of veterans, individuals, corporations, and/or organizations. Each donor may have their name placed in Soldiers Plaza at the site of the armory. You can continue teaching the next generation with expanded exhibit space, and expanded theater, a research/computer center and a “Global Studies” program in cooperation with Houston Community College .
Your support will save the Houston Light Guard Armory, as well as secure a new home for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum . Support the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum online at www.buffalsoldiermuseum.com
For an independent review, see his web site at www.willard-wigan.com.
Reception co-sponsored by BWG Media Group and Black Market-Exchange.
Suggested event donation of $10.00 or brick purchase.
For more information or for partnership opportunities, please contact Cheri Washington at 713.942.8920 [or me, Ed Udell, at 713.942.8920].
Media Contact:
Cheri Washington
Phone: 713.942.8920
Email: cherri@buffalosoldiermuseum.com
Buffalo Soldiers National Museum October 8th Benefit Featuring Willard Wigan-Micro Sculptor
Houston, September 16, 2009: Micro sculptor Willard Wigan’s Art in the Eye of a Needle Exhibit Tour will be in Houston to raise funds for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum’s-“Leave-A-Legacy…Buy-A-Brick” Paver Program on Thursday October 8th at 6:00 PM at the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. The event is open to the public.
Willard Wigan, MBE began his artistic life at a tender age. Suffering from dyslexia and learning difficulties, he struggled at school, finding solace in creating art of such minute proportions that it virtually could not be seen with the naked eye. Each piece commonly sits within the eye of a needle, or on a pin head. Willard’s work is described as “the eighth wonder of the world”. Willard has been featured on ABC News, 60 Minutes, The Tonight Show with Conan O’Brien and numerous other television, radio and print media.
Join Willard Wigan, as we help save the historic Houston Light Guard Amory and secure a new home for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. For the past nine years the museum has stressed the importance of teaching the next generation the history of the Buffalo Soldiers. Now you can participate in the continuance of that history by participating in the “Leave-a-Legacy…Buy a Brick” paver program.
This program allows bricks to be dedicated in honor of veterans, individuals, corporations, and/or organizations. Each donor may have their name placed in Soldiers Plaza at the site of the armory. You can continue teaching the next generation with expanded exhibit space, and expanded theater, a research/computer center and a “Global Studies” program in cooperation with Houston Community College .
Your support will save the Houston Light Guard Armory, as well as secure a new home for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum . Support the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum online at www.buffalsoldiermuseum.com
For an independent review, see his web site at www.willard-wigan.com.
Reception co-sponsored by BWG Media Group and Black Market-Exchange.
Suggested event donation of $10.00 or brick purchase.
For more information or for partnership opportunities, please contact Cheri Washington at 713.942.8920 [or me, Ed Udell, at 713.942.8920].
Media Contact:
Cheri Washington
Phone: 713.942.8920
Email: cherri@buffalosoldiermuseum.com
Monday, September 7, 2009
Making National News
From the National Trust for Historic Preservation "Diversity Scholarship Program Alumni Newsletter, September, 2009:
An ambitious capital campaign attempts to save one of Houston’s finest architectural structures from decades of abandonment and neglect
Old Armory
The architectural majesty of the Houston Light Guard Armory, designed in 1925, is marked by its interior and exterior facade and its decorated past. After serving 13 years as home of the Houston National Guard, the property was deeded to the State of Texas. For nearly half a century, the “old armory” endured harsh Gulf Coast weather conditions, vandalism, and ill-fated acquisition attempts. In 2008 the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum successfully purchased the property to serve as home of the only nationally recognized museum solely dedicated to preserving the legacy of the African American soldier. With green building restoration plans underway, this longtime “community eyesore” may reclaim its architectural and historic grandeur - entrusting a rich preservation legacy to its new owners.
Edward “Ed” Udell serves as the Donor Development director for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum and played a critical role in helping the museum founder, Captain Paul Matthews, raise the funds to purchase the “old armory” in April 2008. With an extensive background in fundraising and nearly 30 years of preservation experience, Udell is well suited to take on some of the financial challenges with restoring the Houston landmark. Unfazed by the downward spiraling economy, Udell, Matthews, museum board members, and friends of the museum are now helping to raise $4.1 million to renovate and preserve the historic site. Many key people, including Mayor Bill White and Tracye McDaniel of the Greater Houston Partnership are also helping with this effort.
To date, the museum has received cash and pledges from major foundations and corporations such as The Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation, Houston Endowment, Marathon Oil, Chevron Oil, Wells Fargo Bank, CenterPoint Energy, and The Brown Foundation. It has also received in-kind contributions from Comcast, Continental Airlines, and members of the African American Press in Greater Houston. The National Trust for Historic Preservation provided funding to help with the initial design work. Udell is also involved in the “Leave A Legacy…Buy A Brick” paver program to raise at least $2 million. He intends to work closely with the museum founder to develop additional programming to raise another $2 million to meet the funding goal for full renovation.
Udell performs much of his museum development and fundraising work for the armory on a volunteer basis.
It was his combined passions for preservation and community activism that landed him slots as a 2008 and a 2009 Diversity Scholar. His goal in attending the Tulsa National Preservation Conference in 2008 was to work alongside the National Trust “to help connect to the resources of people and financial resources to make the effort with the armory a stronger reality.” Udell will represent the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum and exhibit a poster presentation that features the old armory at the 2009 National Preservation Conference in Nashville, Tenn.
For more information about the restoration of the Houston Light Guard Armory and the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, visit http://offcite.org/2009/03/26/houston-light-guard-armory-buffalo-soldiers or www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com.
_______________________
An ambitious capital campaign attempts to save one of Houston’s finest architectural structures from decades of abandonment and neglect
Old Armory
The architectural majesty of the Houston Light Guard Armory, designed in 1925, is marked by its interior and exterior facade and its decorated past. After serving 13 years as home of the Houston National Guard, the property was deeded to the State of Texas. For nearly half a century, the “old armory” endured harsh Gulf Coast weather conditions, vandalism, and ill-fated acquisition attempts. In 2008 the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum successfully purchased the property to serve as home of the only nationally recognized museum solely dedicated to preserving the legacy of the African American soldier. With green building restoration plans underway, this longtime “community eyesore” may reclaim its architectural and historic grandeur - entrusting a rich preservation legacy to its new owners.
Edward “Ed” Udell serves as the Donor Development director for the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum and played a critical role in helping the museum founder, Captain Paul Matthews, raise the funds to purchase the “old armory” in April 2008. With an extensive background in fundraising and nearly 30 years of preservation experience, Udell is well suited to take on some of the financial challenges with restoring the Houston landmark. Unfazed by the downward spiraling economy, Udell, Matthews, museum board members, and friends of the museum are now helping to raise $4.1 million to renovate and preserve the historic site. Many key people, including Mayor Bill White and Tracye McDaniel of the Greater Houston Partnership are also helping with this effort.
To date, the museum has received cash and pledges from major foundations and corporations such as The Albert and Ethel Herzstein Charitable Foundation, Houston Endowment, Marathon Oil, Chevron Oil, Wells Fargo Bank, CenterPoint Energy, and The Brown Foundation. It has also received in-kind contributions from Comcast, Continental Airlines, and members of the African American Press in Greater Houston. The National Trust for Historic Preservation provided funding to help with the initial design work. Udell is also involved in the “Leave A Legacy…Buy A Brick” paver program to raise at least $2 million. He intends to work closely with the museum founder to develop additional programming to raise another $2 million to meet the funding goal for full renovation.
Udell performs much of his museum development and fundraising work for the armory on a volunteer basis.
It was his combined passions for preservation and community activism that landed him slots as a 2008 and a 2009 Diversity Scholar. His goal in attending the Tulsa National Preservation Conference in 2008 was to work alongside the National Trust “to help connect to the resources of people and financial resources to make the effort with the armory a stronger reality.” Udell will represent the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum and exhibit a poster presentation that features the old armory at the 2009 National Preservation Conference in Nashville, Tenn.
For more information about the restoration of the Houston Light Guard Armory and the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum, visit http://offcite.org/2009/03/26/houston-light-guard-armory-buffalo-soldiers or www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com.
_______________________
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