Westcott House to celebrate architect’s 150th birthday

Garden party to honor Frank Lloyd Wright.

The celebrated architect won’t be there to enjoy it, but it will be hard to not be reminded of his spirit and Springfield legacy.

Frank Lloyd Wright’s 150th Birthday Celebration will be a part of the Westcott House for Architecture and Design’s annual garden party at 7 p.m. Saturday, June 10.

The party will take place outside of the house, which Wright designed in 1906 and was built in 1908. It has been restored and preserved since and this event is a fundraiser to continue its preservation and programs.

“We are hoping for a really great party,” said Marta Wojcik, executive director and curator of the Westcott House Foundation. “We’ve been doing this a long time, and this is something fun we’ll mark with a few special things.”

One highlight will be an appearance by Thomas R. Schiff for his new art book, “Wright in Ohio,” featuring photos he took of the 11 structures Wright designed in the state including the Westcott House.

The book will be on display and for sale, and Schiff can sign books and take photos.

The evening will include and open bar and heavy hors d’oeuvres by Seasons Bistro and dancing under the stars. The Dean Simms Band will provide live entertainment.

Live and silent auctions are also part of the event. Even some of these have a Frank Lloyd Wright theme with a travel package to see other sites he’s designed and another for a ride in a restored 1920 Westcott car.

Other items will include original artwork from local, regional and international artists, books, jewelry and more.

Summer cocktail attire is required, and valet parking will be provided.

As Wright’s actual birthday is June 8, the Westcott House will mark the occasion, and Wojcik said that day will be a good time to visit with special things such as cupcakes and other surprises.

Schiff’s book will also be available at the gift shop for those who cannot attend the celebration.

Contact this contributing writer at bturner004@woh.rr.com.


How to go

What: Frank Lloyd Wright’s 150th Birthday Celebration

Where: Westcott House, 1340 E. High St., Springfield

When: 7 p.m. Saturday, June 10

Admission: $85 individual, $160 couple

More info: 937-327-9291 or www.westcotthouse.org

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