US bid to save historic buildings is magnificent

There are, in fact, many things that one should learn from the United States of America. Well, I am not speaking of the economic superiority and military prowess of the US since it is known even to the murkiest pauper of any third world country. I am speaking of the American adherence to its own history and bid to save the historical monuments including historic buildings and mansions that are known for both glorious pasts and splendid architectures. This speaks eloquently of the self-esteem of a nation while the ancient and historic buildings in many countries like India are crumbling and no attention is paid ever.

This was proved, again, in the recent days when the news of the $200,000 federal grant meant for the historic Frank Lloyd Wright building came to the fore. Well, there is no doubt in it, this endeavor or decision of the governmental authority has gladdened both the votaries and detractors of the government. Is there any need of grant for this historic building? Oh, yes! The historic Frank Lloyd Wright building has become captive of crumbling ceilings, permeable walls. It is learnt that there is the need of a fund of more than $1 million for the full-fledged repair. But this grant is going to gratify some aspirations at least.

The Save America’s Treasures grant was part of $10.52 million handed out by federal agencies that included the President’s Committee on the Arts and the Humanities and the National Park Service. According to the latest information the grants would help 40 organizations across US to save the most important cultural and historic treasures of the nation. One of them happens to be Rosenthal Archives of Chicago Symphony Orchestra which also bagged $65,105 for the finest preservation of its exceptional recordings. The other winners include a Russian Orthodox Church in Alaska and WGBH-FM in Boston.

What’s mores striking is that the Frank Lloyd Wright building is not so old and was inaugurated only in 1908 after its former structure was gutted due to a devastating fire.

How can you define this approach? It is not only noble but also magnificent.