PreservationWorks

PreservationWorks continues to advocate and encourage respectful observation of Kirkbride sites. With the heightened awareness of Hudson, we want to remind everyone of the dangerous nature of going on to the grounds of Hudson. There is still an active investigation and we don’t want to see any evidence tampered with, even inadvertently. The entire structure is also incredibly fragile and it is not known at this time the structural integrity of the building. It is not safe for anyone to be there currently. Please be smart and respectful of the site. We thank you in advance.

PreservationWorks is deeply saddened by the loss of the historic Kirkbride building at Hudson River State Hospital yesterday.

We want to thank each and every one of the brave first responders who worked so hard to put out the fire.

We want to acknowledge the many people who have fought for the preservation of Hudson, who have championed remembering the lives of the many patients and staff who lived and worked at Hudson. For those who saw a beautiful building and recognized that the architecture itself is important. For those that fought to have something equally beautiful and meaningful added to their community with the reuse of the hospital. We stand beside all of you during this tragedy.

We don't know what the future will look like right now, but this is not the end. We will continue to monitor the situation, and regroup once we know the full extent of the damage and what remains. Whether parts of the building can still be saved, or a memorial on the property, we will continue to work towards the future and this property, and honor the history of Hudson River State Hospital.

PRESERVATION ALERT: There is currently an evolving situation at the former campus of the Hudson River Psychiatric Center. A fire is confirmed to be affecting several buildings. We will share information as it becomes available.

Good things appear to be on the near horizon at our farthest flung Kirkbride Plan hospital, the Callan Park Hospital, at Sydney, Australia. Not only will the popular parklands receive a number of ecologically friendly upgrades, but a cafe will soon open in one of the buildings (not certain which, but likely the Kirkbride). This reflects a shift from restricting all building use to non-profit activity toward mixed use, a topic of political debate.

Friends of Callan Park

This Just In: Callan Park Is Finalising Plans For More Native Greenery, a Cafe, Tidal Baths and Bay Run Upgrades The popular Inner West parkland's ten-year future has been mapped out and is ready for community feedback.

When preservation in the traditional sense fails, all is not lost. History of all sorts is important to remember. It's easy to consider that an end to the effort - we appreciate those who keep the memory going.

That's why we're thrilled to have you check out our latest entry of our "Heroes of Preservation" Project, where we interview and honor those we consider Heroes of the Kirkbride world.

Learn a little bit about Robert Duffy, a long time friend (and former board member!) who co-authored the "Images of America: Danvers State Hospital" book, founded the Greystone Park Memorial, and was also instrumental in the completion of the Danvers State Hospital Memorial.

Congratulations, Robert!

Robert Duffy - Greystone Memorial & Danvers Memorial | The PreservationWorks Robert Duffy has been exploring and documenting Kirkbride asylums for over 20 years, beginning with Danvers State Hospital in 2005. In 2010 he released “Kirkbrides HD”, the most extensive Kirkbride video documentation project ever created. Robert got his start in preservation as the founding mem...

It’s that time again.
Join us on zoom for our annual public board meeting, where we discuss the past year of our organization and the immediate future.

Congratulations to Ray Minervini Sr, friend of PreservationWorks! A very well deserved recognition!

Ray Minervini honored for Traverse City State Hospital redevelopment Ray Minervini, President of The Minervini Group, will be honored with the 2025 Distinguished Service Award, recognizing his historic preservation and redevelopment efforts.