Hello!
Well, I am back from a holiday in England. It was a great 30 days spent mostly with my daughter and her family. I have written a travelogue; you can get a copy (about 10 pages with photos) by writing me at: edudell@sbcglobal.net. If you only want to have installments sent to you daily until you have the last installment, tell me in your e-mail.
January is a great month for you to be thinking about how you can impact African American History Month. The Buffalo Soldiers National Museum is partnering with The Smithsonian Institute in Washington, DC, and the U.S. Department of Reclamations to present "The Forgotten Faces of Ft. Craig" during February.
Ms. Amanda Danning, forensic sculptor, will use the precisely engineered cast produced by University of Houston Professor, Dr. Ali Kamrani to perform a live, progressive reconstruction of the face of U.S. Army Pvt. Thomas Smith, a Buffalo Soldier. Pvt. Smith was identified by coparing the details of his remains with the military enlistment records from the 1800s in New Mexico. This event will trace the story of grave robbers, forensic science, and that of the Buffalo Soldiers at Ft. Craig, New Mexico. This month-long activity will take place at 4816 Main Street (near Rosedale, next to the Museum of Contemporary Crafts). General single day admission is only $15 for each 1 1/4 hour session. If you wish to be involved for each session, contact me for that information. For further information and/or to become an underwriting sponsor, contact me by calling the museum at 713-942-8920. If I am out, ask for the museum founder, Captain Paul Matthews.
You can also leave your own legacy in stone by contributing to the "Soldiers Plaza," a memorial park to be built on the grounds of the historic Houston Light Guard Armory. The armory will also become the new national headquarters for the museum. The project is seeking sponsors who will have their name, the name of a veteran in their family, or to honor another person with a brick or a granite paver. You can contribute $10,000 or $1,000 or $500 or $100. For further information, contact me or Captain Matthews.
If you want to share in the honoring of "Women in the Military" museum gala, contact me for a ticket (or for group tickets) before all seats are taken. The event takes place February 26th at 6:30 p.m. at J.W. Marriott, 5150 Westheimer Road in Houston. Ticket donations are $65 each. You can also become a table sponsor for $650, a general event sponsor for $1,000 or $5,000. There are also event sponsorships available for $10,000 or $25,000 or $50,000. Contact me and I will give you more information.
For those of you who would like to really leave your name in history, you can underwrite a portion of the preservation and renovations of the historic armory. You can underwrite the costs for a room, an exhibit, the main exhibit hall, an office, the library, or any of the other 32 spaces. Your name, or the name of your company, club, church, etc., will be boldly listed above the entrance to the space. Contact me and I will send you a "Preservation Sponsorship" packet.
To find out more about the work we are doing with the museum, visit us online at:
www.buffalosoldiermuseum.com.
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Showing posts with label museum. Show all posts
Showing posts with label museum. Show all posts
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
The "Unveiling" In Nashville
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.
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.
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.
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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Wednesday, June 3, 2009
A BANK IS WAITING!
I was recently at a board meeting of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. Some great news was shared concerning a press release going out nationally. Also, there was news about a bank very interested in helping!
This bank has been following the development of the museum for some time. They found out that the $4.1 million needed to complete the renovations of the historic Houston Light Guard Armory was coming in a little slow.
Some of those who had promised to help the museum last year ran into some problems---financial meltdown! This problem has caused quite a domino-effect. Foundations that could have helped with grants lost money in the stock market. Some foundations may close. Some corporations and banks ran into investment problems. They cut back; some had to have a government bailout. Thus, the promises of money are still on the table.
While some of these promises may actually turn into cash into the museum someday, today it isn’t happening. The museum is now looking at other ways to raise money and stay close to a target date for opening the new museum. One plan is to sell 8,000 memorial bricks to honor veterans and others. While we are getting some pledges and some actual cash, we need to reach a lot of people and encourage them to send their funds in---now!
The bank wants to help. As soon as we can show this bank that we have pledges in hand for most of the bricks, they will help us. This is great news! Although we had planned to get a lot of money from a few foundations, corporations, and individuals, we will just reach out to more people, making the project a “people’s project.”
Will you be one of those people? The sooner we have names and pledges and/or cash, the sooner you will see and come into the new museum!
While I would love to get 8,000 people to honor a veteran or someone else with a granite brick and send us the money today, I will also be very happy when all 8,000 bricks are sold!
Consider honoring a father by investing in a brick in his honor for Father’s Day. Contact me for further details on this. You may also contact me to let me know how many bricks you would like to have set aside for your pledge. You can give monthly and by November your bricks will be paid for.
Let’s keep the good news going…let’s not keep the bank waiting too long!
This bank has been following the development of the museum for some time. They found out that the $4.1 million needed to complete the renovations of the historic Houston Light Guard Armory was coming in a little slow.
Some of those who had promised to help the museum last year ran into some problems---financial meltdown! This problem has caused quite a domino-effect. Foundations that could have helped with grants lost money in the stock market. Some foundations may close. Some corporations and banks ran into investment problems. They cut back; some had to have a government bailout. Thus, the promises of money are still on the table.
While some of these promises may actually turn into cash into the museum someday, today it isn’t happening. The museum is now looking at other ways to raise money and stay close to a target date for opening the new museum. One plan is to sell 8,000 memorial bricks to honor veterans and others. While we are getting some pledges and some actual cash, we need to reach a lot of people and encourage them to send their funds in---now!
The bank wants to help. As soon as we can show this bank that we have pledges in hand for most of the bricks, they will help us. This is great news! Although we had planned to get a lot of money from a few foundations, corporations, and individuals, we will just reach out to more people, making the project a “people’s project.”
Will you be one of those people? The sooner we have names and pledges and/or cash, the sooner you will see and come into the new museum!
While I would love to get 8,000 people to honor a veteran or someone else with a granite brick and send us the money today, I will also be very happy when all 8,000 bricks are sold!
Consider honoring a father by investing in a brick in his honor for Father’s Day. Contact me for further details on this. You may also contact me to let me know how many bricks you would like to have set aside for your pledge. You can give monthly and by November your bricks will be paid for.
Let’s keep the good news going…let’s not keep the bank waiting too long!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
The First Lady---of the BSNM
If this story does not get told, many people will not know. I didn’t know. The museum founder didn’t tell me. The First Lady of the museum didn’t tell me. But, someone else did.
They were childhood sweethearts. She knew about his passion about the Buffalo Soldiers from his college days at Prairie View A&M University. When he served in Vietnam, she knew about his passion. His passion continued as he became a key figure in the pharmaceutical industry. Their home became his place to stash his Buffalo Soldier memorabilia. When he retired, everywhere she looked, there was his collection. The collection spilled over into a garage; into a rented facility; and it just kept growing.
Although Bobbie Matthews shared the passion of her husband, the Matthews’ Buffalo Soldier collection became too much for one family, especially one wife, to share. She suggested to Captain Paul J. Matthews that he find a place to share his passion with the public. She suggested he open a museum. Thus was born the beginning of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. She had no idea what running a museum would entail, but she would soon find out!
When Cherrie Washington, a cousin of the Matthews, found a facility for the museum to begin, more work was required. Since it would take quite a bit of money to begin and run the museum, the family decided to take the retirement funds from Captain Matthews’ job and start the museum. This meant the plans many retirees have of traveling and enjoying their hard work would be tabled. This was an unproved idea. While there were some Buffalo Soldier space in other museums, and some other Buffalo Soldier collectors had some things to show in their home, no one in the world had established a National Buffalo Soldier Museum---the one established by the Matthew Family would be the first in the world!
Renting a facility and exhibiting one’s collection is one thing; developing suitable exhibits and getting people to come by---6 days a week---was quite another. A museum had to have a bookstore and gift shop. Somebody had to help keep the museum open. Somebody had to greet the public. Somebody had to research and display the $1 million-plus Matthews’ Family Buffalo Soldier Collection. It soon became evident that while Captain Matthews was developing a non-profit organization, setting up a board of directors, encouraging educators to bring students, sharing the vision to keep funds coming in, that this “somebody” would be Mrs. Bobbie Matthews.
Between the two of them (sometimes their children and grandchildren) and some volunteers, 80+ hours a week became 4,000 hours a year. Plus, the Matthews had to visit other museums and holders of Buffalo Soldier memorabilia. There were people coming and going daily. There were artifacts to be written up and stored. The bookstore and gift shop had to be opened. Errands had to be run. Mail had to be taken to the post office. Mrs. Matthews became the unofficial “go-to” person. And then there were the receptions to organize; funds to raise; an annual gala to be organized; phones to be answered; and on and on. Thus, the legacy of The First Lady of the Buffalo Soldier National Museum began and continues.
They were childhood sweethearts. She knew about his passion about the Buffalo Soldiers from his college days at Prairie View A&M University. When he served in Vietnam, she knew about his passion. His passion continued as he became a key figure in the pharmaceutical industry. Their home became his place to stash his Buffalo Soldier memorabilia. When he retired, everywhere she looked, there was his collection. The collection spilled over into a garage; into a rented facility; and it just kept growing.
Although Bobbie Matthews shared the passion of her husband, the Matthews’ Buffalo Soldier collection became too much for one family, especially one wife, to share. She suggested to Captain Paul J. Matthews that he find a place to share his passion with the public. She suggested he open a museum. Thus was born the beginning of the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. She had no idea what running a museum would entail, but she would soon find out!
When Cherrie Washington, a cousin of the Matthews, found a facility for the museum to begin, more work was required. Since it would take quite a bit of money to begin and run the museum, the family decided to take the retirement funds from Captain Matthews’ job and start the museum. This meant the plans many retirees have of traveling and enjoying their hard work would be tabled. This was an unproved idea. While there were some Buffalo Soldier space in other museums, and some other Buffalo Soldier collectors had some things to show in their home, no one in the world had established a National Buffalo Soldier Museum---the one established by the Matthew Family would be the first in the world!
Renting a facility and exhibiting one’s collection is one thing; developing suitable exhibits and getting people to come by---6 days a week---was quite another. A museum had to have a bookstore and gift shop. Somebody had to help keep the museum open. Somebody had to greet the public. Somebody had to research and display the $1 million-plus Matthews’ Family Buffalo Soldier Collection. It soon became evident that while Captain Matthews was developing a non-profit organization, setting up a board of directors, encouraging educators to bring students, sharing the vision to keep funds coming in, that this “somebody” would be Mrs. Bobbie Matthews.
Between the two of them (sometimes their children and grandchildren) and some volunteers, 80+ hours a week became 4,000 hours a year. Plus, the Matthews had to visit other museums and holders of Buffalo Soldier memorabilia. There were people coming and going daily. There were artifacts to be written up and stored. The bookstore and gift shop had to be opened. Errands had to be run. Mail had to be taken to the post office. Mrs. Matthews became the unofficial “go-to” person. And then there were the receptions to organize; funds to raise; an annual gala to be organized; phones to be answered; and on and on. Thus, the legacy of The First Lady of the Buffalo Soldier National Museum began and continues.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Info on Buffalo Soldiers
Thank you, Bob Marley!
His song "Buffalo Soldier" has been around for awhile. However, many who hear/heard the song still don't know much about the Buffalo Soldiers. Therefore, in 2001, Captain Paul J. Matthews and his family took his retirement money from his civilian job and opened up the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. Go there and learn more about the Buffalo Soldiers. And, then consider making a donation by buying a brick from me.
Later, check out http://www.buffalosoldier.net/.
His song "Buffalo Soldier" has been around for awhile. However, many who hear/heard the song still don't know much about the Buffalo Soldiers. Therefore, in 2001, Captain Paul J. Matthews and his family took his retirement money from his civilian job and opened up the Buffalo Soldiers National Museum. Go there and learn more about the Buffalo Soldiers. And, then consider making a donation by buying a brick from me.
Later, check out http://www.buffalosoldier.net/.
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