February News from the Conservancy

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy is excited to build on last year’s successes with new leadership, expanded preservation efforts, and engaging educational programs. Whether you’re a longtime supporter or just getting involved, we invite you to join us in protecting and celebrating the historic, architectural, and natural heritage of Chestnut Hill and the Wissahickon watershed.

Read on for Annual Meeting highlights, leadership transitions, a preview of this year’s Spring Gala, upcoming Ask the Experts and Discovering Chestnut Hill programs, and new opportunities to get involved!

Celebrating Leadership Transitions

At the Annual Meeting on January 9—outgoing Board President Eileen Javers (pictured with David Gest at the Preservation Party), who will remain on the board, opened the evening with heartfelt remarks reflecting on her eight years as president and more than a decade of service to the Conservancy. She highlighted key accomplishments during her tenure and acknowledged the passing of community members, including former board member Charlie Dilks, who was honored at the 2024 Spring Gala for his dedication to environmental conservation. A moment of silence was held for all those lost, including President Jimmy Carter, as the meeting coincided with his National Day of Mourning.

Charting the Future

During the Annual Meeting—his fourth day in the role—the Conservancy welcomed David Gest, Esq. as the new Executive Director. Gest closed the meeting by reaffirming the Conservancy’s commitment to preserving and celebrating Chestnut Hill’s historic, architectural, and natural resources:

“In my brief time with the Conservancy, I have already witnessed the joy and passion that the staff and board bring to the organization’s mission,” said Gest. “I am excited to collaborate with them and the Wissahickon watershed community to lead the Conservancy into its next chapter.”

Now, nearly two months in, Gest has been connecting with members, staff, and partners while gaining deeper insight into the Conservancy’s work.

Gest is already focused on expanding advocacy, strengthening partnerships, and increasing access to the Conservancy’s headquarters and Archives. If you haven’t had the chance to meet him yet, he’d love to hear from you. Email him at David@CHConservancy.Org.

📍 Learn more about Gest’s background and vision in Maggie Dougherty’s article in the Chestnut Hill Local.

Building on a Strong Foundation

Also at the Annual Meeting, Conservancy members elected and re-elected directors to the Board of Directors, ushering in new leadership for 2025. The newly elected board members include Ashley Douglas, James McNabb, Daniel Preston, and James Rice, collectively bringing expertise in design, community engagement, visual communication, and architecture. Tim Greenwood, Jean McCoubrey, and Larry Salva were re-elected.

Click HERE to learn more about the Conservancy’s Board members.

Later in January, Bill Webster (pictured above) officially stepped into his role as Board President, succeeding Eileen Javers. With a background in historic preservation, community engagement, and strategic communication, Webster brings a deep commitment to balancing preservation, conservation, and responsible growth.

“Eileen has laid an incredible foundation for the Conservancy, and I’m grateful for her continued guidance,” Webster shared. “I look forward to working with the board, staff, and Executive Director David Gest to build on that legacy and engage more people in shaping the future of Chestnut Hill and the Wissahickon watershed.”

Additionally, the 2025 Historic District Advisory Committee (HDAC) was confirmed, including returning members Patricia Cove, Richard Bartholomew, Shirley Hanson, Matt Millan, Miles Orvell, William O’Keefe, Deborah Popky, Bill Webster, and Randy Williams, with James Rice joining as a new member.

📍  Learn more about Webster’s experience and leadership in a recent article by Chrissy Clawson.

Thank You to Our 2024 Supporters

Our work would not be possible without the generosity of our members, donors, volunteers, and business sponsors, as well as the many partners and supporters who collaborated with our staff to advance the Conservancy’s mission. We are deeply grateful to everyone who donated to the 2024 End-of-Year campaign, contributed to the Archives, the Lori Salganicoff Stewardship Fund, became a member, or renewed their membership—your support ensures that our shared history, landscapes, and architecture remain stewarded for future generations.

In 2025, we look forward to enhancing membership benefits, including exclusive opportunities like the members-only lecture with George McNeely held on February 12. Thank you for being part of this community and for all you do to help protect and celebrate the area’s history, architecture, and open space.

Conservation and Preservation in Action

Historic Preservation in Northwest Philadelphia

Congratulations to West Mount Airy Neighbors (WMAN) and the Historic Preservation Initiative committee for securing the Northwest Philadelphia Apartments Thematic Historic District designation. This effort ensures that 30 historically significant apartment buildings near the Chestnut Hill West Line are now protected, preserving the architectural and cultural legacy of this area.

This achievement reflects years of dedicated research, advocacy, and community engagement. Volunteers and preservationists worked tirelessly to bring this effort to fruition, demonstrating the impact of grassroots preservation efforts in balancing historic character with the evolving needs of the community.

What is a Thematic Historic District?

Unlike a traditional historic district that focuses on a single neighborhood, a Thematic District recognizes multiple sites connected by a shared historical significance—ensuring preservation protections for important places even if they’re not physically adjacent.

Conservation Easements: Protecting Open Space

The Conservancy’s Easement Program ensures the long-term protection of key landscapes in the Wissahickon watershed, safeguarding stormwater management, tree canopy health, and green space preservation.

Click HERE to learn more about easements.

Did you know?

Preserving mature trees and green spaces reduces runoff, improves air quality, and supports wildlife habitats, while also mitigating erosion and filtering pollutants before they reach local waterways. These benefits are central to Philadelphia’s long-term tree canopy strategy, as explored in our Discovering Chestnut Hill lecture on the Philly Tree Plan with Erica Smith Fichman.

As spring approaches, thoughtful stormwater management and sustainable landscaping become even more essential. Simple steps—like installing rain barrels, creating rain gardens, and choosing native plants—can help slow water flow, capture rainfall for drier months, and reduce chemical runoff into streams and rivers.

Looking for inspiration? Explore recent expert-led programs on sustainable landscaping, rainwater management, and recycled materials in design:

• Putting Plants to Work with Jeff Lorenz (Refugia Design) – Learn how native landscaping boosts biodiversity, manages stormwater, and creates low-maintenance ecosystems.
• Recycled Landscapes with Hans Hesselein & Martha Keen (Apiary Studio) – Discover how salvaged materials can be repurposed into beautiful, functional green spaces.
• Residential Rainwater Management with Hap Haven – Explore practical ways to collect and conserve rainwater at home, reducing reliance on municipal systems.

From the Archives

Throughout February, the Conservancy highlighted stories from the Archives that reflect the diverse experiences of Black residents in Chestnut Hill. These staff-selected features explored sports, activism, the arts, and local businesses, recognizing the contributions of individuals who have shaped the community in ways both visible and often overlooked.

Vicki Lambert, Chestnut Hill School of Ballet student,1985. Chestnut Hill Conservancy Archives.

Featured Stories:

Rudy Miles – A standout athlete and dedicated educator, Miles excelled in football and baseball before choosing to serve Philadelphia’s students over a professional sports career. His legacy lives on through photographs, oral history, and documents that capture his impact on and beyond the playing field.

C. DeLores Tucker – A trailblazing civil rights leader, Tucker was the first Black woman in U.S. history to hold a state cabinet position and a lifelong advocate for voting rights, political empowerment, and cultural justice. From marching in Selma with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. to challenging the music industry’s portrayal of Black women, her activism spanned decades.

Vicky Lambert (pictured above) – Once a student at the Chestnut Hill School of Ballet, Lambert went on to perform as a principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and star in film and television. The school has since closed, but Black-owned dance businesses in the area continue the tradition, ensuring that movement remains a powerful form of expression.

Tamara Still and Community Voices – A moment of kindness captured in 2001 showed employees Tamara Still and Brittany Gillespie, employees of Robertson’s Florist, preparing a care package for a Marine in Afghanistan. As, the Conservancy expands its archives to better reflect the diverse history of Northwest Philadelphia, stories like these offer a glimpse into the people behind Chestnut Hill’s businesses and institutions.

These stories are just a small piece of Chestnut Hill’s Black history, and efforts continue to document and preserve the experiences of residents who have shaped the community.

📌 Do you have stories, photographs, or materials that help tell this history? Contact Curator and Archivist Alex Bartlett at Alex@CHConservancy.Org.

Upcoming Programs and Events

Discovering Chestnut Hill: Private Gardens of Philadelphia – Lost and Found

Wednesday, March 19, 2025 | 7:00 – 8:30 PM (Hybrid Event)
Speaker: Nicole Juday

Philadelphia is home to more historic private gardens than any other region in the country. In this talk, Nicole Juday will explore remarkable gardens from her book Private Gardens of Philadelphia, highlighting those that have survived against the odds. From hidden estates to urban green spaces, these landscapes reflect generations of stewardship and artistry.

📍 Location: Philadelphia, PA 19118 and virtual, via Zoom. In-person seating is limited; virtual attendance available.
📍Members: $15 | Non-Members: $25
📍Registration is required. Registration links will be available next week! 

Discovering Chestnut Hill: Buildings and Beyond – Wayne Junction’s Revitalization

Saturday, April 5, 2025 | 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Guides: Ken Weinstein and Kim Chantry

Join us for a walking tour of Wayne Junction, a historically significant industrial district undergoing a remarkable transformation through adaptive reuse with Ken Weinstein and Kim Chantry. Learn how tax credits, community-driven initiatives, and historic preservation efforts have turned vacant buildings into thriving spaces for living, working, and gathering.

📍Location: Philadelphia, PA 19144
📍Members: $15 | Non-Members: $25 
📍Registration is required. Click HERE to learn more and register.

Ask the Experts: The Art and Craft of Ornamental Ironwork

Saturday, May 3, 2025 | 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Speaker: Robert Anderson, Anderson Ironworks

Learn about the history, craftsmanship, and restoration of ornamental ironwork with Robert Anderson. Anderson will demonstrate traditional blacksmithing techniques by forging a classic scroll, a fundamental decorative element, while discussing the evolution of the craft and its role in modern design. They will also cover strategies for maintaining and restoring historic metalwork.

📍Location: Philadelphia, PA 19118
📍FREE, but registration is required. Space is limited.
📍Click HERE to learn more and register.

The Chestnut Hill Conservancy’s public programming is made possible through the generous support of our Lead Sponsor, Chubb, as well as our General Sponsors, Event Sponsors, and dedicated members. John B. Ward proudly serves as the 2025 Discovering Chestnut Hill Event Sponsor, while E.G. Rall Landscape Design is our 2025 Supporting Event Sponsor. The Ask the Experts series are organized by the Conservancy and offering in collaboration with our friends at the Chestnut Hill Community Association. Ace Hardware Home Services proudly serves as the Ask the Experts Event Sponsor, while E.G. Rall Landscape Design is our 2025 Supporting Event Sponsor.

For questions, please contact Chrissy Clawson at Chrissy@CHConservancy.Org.

Save the Date: Spring Gala – Saturday, May 31

The 2025 Spring Gala  will be held in Chestnut Hill, at a historic house built in the early 19^th century and once part of the Owen Sheridan farm. In 1904, architect Mantle Fielding incorporated the original mansion into the Boxly estate and converted it into stables and servant quarters. Then, in 1950, architect Sydney E. Martin restored it as a single-family residence.

This year, we are thrilled to honor Susan and Bob Peck for their outstanding contributions to sustaining and celebrating our community. Susan’s longtime leadership with the Conservancy and Morris Arboretum, combined with Bob’s work as a naturalist, historian, and writer, has helped preserve and share our area’s rich heritage.

We hope you can join us! Benefactor tickets are now available for purchase, click on the button below to learn more. Patron Tickets will be available in April.

There are still opportunities to sponsor the Gala!

Please reach out to Ashley Maass Development Manager at Ashley@CHConservancy.Org for more information. Thank you to our Lead Sponsor, Chubb, General Sponsors, and Spring Gala Supporting Sponsor, Peter Zimmerman Architects.

Membership 

Did your membership recently expire, or are you interested in joining? Conservancy members receive exclusive benefits, including:

• Discounts to Discovering Chestnut Hill programs
• Free research access in the Archives
• Exclusive opportunities like members-only events

To learn more about membership, contact Development Manager Ashley Maass at Ashley@CHConservancy.Org or 215-247-9329 x 202.

Support

Your support allows the Conservancy to continue free or low-cost public programs, preservation efforts, and advocacy for Chestnut Hill’s historic architecture, open space, and cultural resources. Donations directly sustain educational initiatives, conservation easements, and the Archives, ensuring our shared history is protected for future generations.

Sponsorship

Looking to sponsor the Conservancy in 2025? Sponsorship offers a unique opportunity to support local preservation efforts while gaining visibility among a community passionate about history, conservation, and sustainability.

Contact Development Manager Ashley Maass to explore available sponsorship options.

News 

• February 12 – Chestnut Hill Local, “New CHC leader brings diverse skills”
• February 6 – Chestnut Hill Local, “Transit leader takes helm at Conservancy board”
• January 23 – Chestnut Hill Local, “Charles Day Dilks, Hill conservation giant, dies at 83”
• January 16 – Chestnut Hill Local, “Conservancy members convene for 2025 annual meeting”
• January 8 – The Philadelphia Inquirer, “Charles D. Dilks, retired executive vice president of the University City Science Center and avid conservationist, has died at 83”
• January 6 – Chestnut Hill Local, “Charles Day Dilks”
• January 1 – Chestnut Hill Local, “A big year of preservation wins for CH Conservancy”
• December 25 – Chestnut Hill Local, “2024: What we’ll remember from this passing year”
• December 25 – Chestnut Hill Local, “A year of change for our built environment”
• December 5 – Chestnut Hill Local, “Chestnut Hill Conservancy honors historic gems”

Events 

• Wednesday, March 19, 7:00 – 8:30 PM – Discovering Chestnut Hill “Private Gardens of Philadelphia – Lost and Found,” Hybrid. Click HERE.
• Saturday, April 5, 1:00–3:00 PM – Discovering Chestnut Hill “Buildings and Beyond – Wayne Junction’s Revitalization,” In-Person. Click HERE.
• Saturday, May 3, 1:00–3:00 PM – Ask the Experts “The Art and Craft of Ornamental Ironwork,” In-Person. Click HERE.
• Saturday, May 31 – Spring Gala, In-Person. Click HERE.

2025 LEAD SPONSOR

2025 GENERAL SPONSORS

SPRING GALA SPONSORS

DISCOVERING CHESTNUT HILL SPONSORS

ASK THE EXPERTS SPONSORS

Great architecture is in our nature.

215-247-9329 | 8708 Germantown Avenue, Phila., PA 19118 | info@chconservancy.org