Union First Market Bank Donates Funds For Architectural Model Of Menokin

WARSAW, Va. - July 11, 2013 - PRLog -- Warsaw, VA— The Menokin Foundation is pleased to announce that it has received a generous $25,000 grant from Union First Market Bank to fund the building of a scaled architectural model of the Foundation’s Menokin Project.

The finished model, which will be used in the Foundation’s educational and public awareness initiatives, is being fabricated by the internationally-recognized architecture firm of Machado and Silvetti Associates, LLC.  The model is based upon Machado and Silvetti’s concept design for the rehabilitation of the Menokin ruins—once home to Declaration of Independence signer, Francis Lightfoot Lee—into an exhibition and conservation center that provides a revolutionary approach to the study of history, architecture, the arts, and conservation.

The design incorporates developing new systems to support and combine architectural glass with the remaining historic fabric. This strategic rehabilitation will accurately represent the shape and volume of this 18^th-century National Historic Landmark.

John C. Neal, President of Union First Market Bank commented, “We recognize that the Menokin Project is of national significance, but it also plays an important role to preserve the historic and cultural fabric of the Northern Neck.  We are excited to be involved in the effort.”

Production for the model is currently underway, and is scheduled to be completed in early August.  Several students from the Harvard Graduate School of Design, who recently participated in a studio class focusing solely on Menokin, are assisting Machado and Silvetti on the model fabrication as summer interns.  

Menokin Foundation President W. Tayloe Murphy, Jr. commented, “We strive to incorporate learning opportunities into all planning and conservation work for the Menokin site, and are delighted to have the Harvard graduate students involved in the model fabrication with Machado and Silvetti.”

Expressing the appreciation of Foundation Trustees and staff for the grant, Executive Director Sarah D. Pope said, “The Menokin Foundation is so grateful to receive this generous grant from Union First Market Bank, which has been a valuable community partner not only to our organizations but also to others across the Commonwealth.”