PRESERVATION OF HISTORIC 1878 BILLBOARD ASSISTED BY LAMAR OUTDOOR ADVERTISING
Images: Copyright 2002 Civic Center Development Corp. Use of images is prohibited without the express written permission of the Civic Center Development Corporation. To contact the CCDC call: 664-2465 ext. 202.
JAMESTOWN, NY: James Allburn, Market Manager for the Jamestown Division of Lamar Outdoor Advertising, presented a check for $2000 to Ms. Sue Jones, Chair of the Reg Lenna Civic Center to assist with the preliminary costs of preserving a rare and historic William "Buffalo Bill” Cody billboard."We understand that this may be one of the most historic billboards in the country,” said Mr. Allburn, "We want to show our support and interest in making sure that it is preserved for future generations and eventually made accessible for the public to see.”
Mr. Allburn said that he called Civic Center staff after learning of the discovery through local and national media coverage. He and other representatives from Lamar Outdoor Advertising arranged to see the billboard. They asked about next steps and what was needed to conserve it.
When originally affixed to the wooden wall 124 years ago, the billboard was composed of multiple sections measuring approximately 3 feet by 2 feet, the size of the hand-carved wood blocks from which it was printed. In its present state, only two or three pieces of paper that size remain. The rest of the pieces range in size from a couple of square feet down to a few square inches.
"It was a moving experience to see the actual prints from 1878—, said Terry Lair, Lamar Office Manager. "Even in its present state, after 124 years, the art work is exciting."
According to Laura Schell, a certified paper conservator from Buffalo, "Although it is a jigsaw puzzle now, the paper is in very good shape for its age and will restore beautifully.” Ms. Schell removed the billboard from the wall and did the initial stabilization of the pieces.
Sue Jones said that the Civic Center Development Corporation is discussing plans for conservation and display of the piece. "This initial donation will help greatly with the current costs. We feel we have a responsibility to conserve this unique and historic artifact of Americana. We’re grateful for this gift that will help us protect it and proceed appropriately,” she said.
Patricia Anzideo, Civic Center Board secretary, said "We are still researching what the total cost will be to fully restore this billboard. As of now, based on expert opinions, we know we can anticipate having to spend at least $35,000” Ms. Anzideo added, "Meanwhile, expenses related to our research, and preliminary stabilization and conservation measures are greatly assisted by this gift from Lamar Outdoor Advertising. It gives us much needed start-up resources and we’re very appreciative.”