Preserving Estero’s history: College of Life Foundation President Paul Schryver presents an additional $50,000 contribution to the Estero Historical Society for the relocation and restoration of the historic Alvarez/Smith House.
Pictured from left: Estero Historical Society Board Members Nancy Brodbeck, Christine Summa and Bill Ribble; College of Life Foundation President Paul Schryver; Estero Historical Society Board President Gail Langner; and Vice President Evan Cohen.
ESTERO, FL — The Estero Historical Society has received an additional $50,000 contribution from the College of Life Foundation for the relocation and restoration of the historic Alvarez/Smith House.
College of Life Foundation President Paul Schryver presented the check to members of the Estero Historical Society Board of Directors this week, marking another major step forward in preserving the circa-1916 Alvarez/Smith House and making it a permanent part of the Estero Historical Society Complex at Estero Community Park.
“The College of Life Foundation has been an extraordinary partner in preserving Estero’s history,” said Estero Historical Society Board President Gail Langner. “Their generosity has made an enormous difference in our ability to move this project forward. We simply cannot thank them enough for believing in the importance of preserving this piece of Estero’s past for future generations.”
The Alvarez/Smith House will become the newest addition to the Historical Society’s historic complex, joining the 1902 Hall-Hanson-Collier House, and the restored 1904 Estero Schoolhouse. Once completed, it will provide additional space for exhibits, educational programs, and the preservation of Estero’s history.
In recognition of its exceptional support, the College of Life Foundation will be honored in the $100,000+ giving category on the Estero Historical Society’s Legacy Monument, a permanent bronze monument recognizing those whose generosity is helping preserve Estero’s historic treasures.
The Legacy Monument also offers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the community. Donors contributing $10,000 or more will be permanently recognized on the monument.
The Historical Society continues to seek support to complete the Alvarez/Smith House restoration. Those interested in the Legacy Monument or other sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact the Estero Historical Society.
For more information about the Legacy Monument Campaign or to make a contribution, please contact the Estero Historical Society at EsteroHistoricalSociety@gmail.com or visit EsteroHistoricalSociety.com
About the Estero Historical Society
The Estero Historical Society is dedicated to preserving, protecting and sharing the unique history of Estero through education, restoration and community engagement. The Society operates the Estero Historical Society Complex, which includes the historic Cottage, Schoolhouse Museum and, soon, the restored Alvarez/Smith House.