National Trust for Historic Preservation – National Preservation Month Auction 2009
Auction Ends: May 31, 2009 06:00 PM EDT

Art

Elephant Hotel Birdhouse Poster, Somers, NY

Elephant Hotel Birdhouse Poster, Somers, NY

Item Number
210
Estimated Value
25 USD
Sold
20 USD to Meemo
Number of Bids
6  -  Bid History

Item Description

A delightful limited edition poster created by Somers Historical Society (Somers, NY) commemorating the National Historic Landmark Designation of the Elephant Hotel in Somers, NY.   The poster showcases photos of birdhouses painted by local artists in their interpretation of this historic building. A lovely gift for a preservationist, bird, and/or circus-lover!

Established in 1808, the Westchester County, NY town of Somers became known as the "cradle of the American Circus" after Hachaliah Bailey bought an African Elephant, which he named "Old Bet." Bailey intended to use the elephant for farm work but the number of people it attracted caused Bailey to take her throughout the northeast. Bailey's success caused numerous others to tour with exotic animals, and during the 1830's the old style circus and Bailey's attractions merged to form the modern circus.   Old Bet died on tour in 1827 and in her honor Mr. Bailey later erected the Elephant Hotel.  Purchased by the town in 1927, it became the town's landmark and the elephant remains a symbol of the town to this day.  Recently dedicated a National Historic Landmark, the Elephant Hotel currently serves as Somers' Town Hall and home to its historical society.
    

Item Special Note

Birdhouses were auctioned to benefit the Somers Historical Society. Poster was created to commemorate the collection. It is a limited edition piece. Poster size 11" x 16", fits conventional 16" x 20" mat.  Unframed.

Donated By:

Grace Zimmermann