Francis Milks, master plasterer and craftsman, has worked single-handedly on the Hyde Hall restoration since 1995, under the direction of board member Christopher Holbrook, chair of restoration.
Hyde Hall, Inc. is a not for profit 501 (C) (3) organization formed in 1964 to assist New York State with the preservation and operation of this monumental site, which was named a National Historic Landmark in 1986. In 1988, the Friends acquired a 30-year lease on Hyde Hall from New York State. The organization was renamed Hyde Hall, Inc. in 1999. Hyde Hall, Inc. alone now shoulders the financial and administrative responsibilities for the restoration and operation of the house and grounds.
Hyde Hall's supporters come from diverse backgrounds and live throughout the United States and in several foreign countries. The majority, however, are local residents. Our common bond is an appreciation of Hyde Hall and recognition of its crying need for preservation.
Since its formation, Hyde Hall, Inc. has raised and invested several million dollars in the preservation of the historic house; its rich artifact collections of furnishings by Meads and Alvord; portraits by Samuel FB Morse, Ingham, Smibert, Powell, and Emmet Rand, among others; and its accompanying archive of family papers and other documentary materials. The majority of these funds have come from concerned individuals who firmly believe in the organization's mission to restore Hyde Hall, and realize the ultimate public benefit that will come from the rejuvenation of this great house.