fbpx Restoration & Construction | George Eastman Museum

Restoration & Construction

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Thomas Tischer Visitor Center

Thomas Tischer Visitor Center

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Colonnade restoration

Restoration of the Colonnade, 2019.

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Restoration of the Palm House, 2012.

Restoration of the Palm House, 2012.

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Construction of George Eastman's Pergola and Terrace Garden, 1904

George Eastman (American, 1854–1932). Construction of George Eastman's Pergola and Terrace Garden, 1904. Gelatin silver negative. George Eastman Collection; Gift of Eastman Kodak Co.

Last Updated: January 16, 2026

Attention Museum Visitors: See our Plan Your Visit page for up-to-date information about how these projects may impact your visit.

Current & Upcoming Projects

Chimneys, Parapets, and Roof Railings Repair and Restoration [Upcoming]

Urgent repairs are needed for the historic mansion’s chimneys and parapets to mitigate risks to public safety and to protect the mansion from water damage. This project was awarded a major grant from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (SHPO) through Title 9 of the Environmental Protection Act of 1993. Funds have also been provided by the Georgia P. Gosnell Charitable Trust, and individual donors.

Garden Structure Restoration [Through 2025]

Grape Arbor, and Loggia have withstood over 100 years of Rochester’s annual freeze/thaw cycle and are in a dire state of severe deterioration and instability.

How You Can Help

The Eastman Museum is grateful for donations of all sizes. Your Annual Fund support helps us with daily museum operations and forms a strong foundation that allows us to undertake critical restoration and capital projects.

To make a fully tax-deductible gift to the George Eastman Museum Annual Fund:

  • Donate online here;
  • Call (585) 327-4861; or
  • Mail a check made out to “George Eastman Museum” to:
    • George Eastman Museum
    • Attn: Annual Fund
    • 900 East Avenue
    • Rochester, NY 14607

Recent Projects

The Thomas Tischer Visitor Center [Completed October 2020]

The George Eastman Museum embarked on a major construction project to relocate and redesign the main entrance. The new entrance and visitor center is more convenient, visible, welcoming, and accessible for guests.

Learn More

The Bruce B. Bates Colonnade Restoration [Completed June 2021]

The George Eastman Museum completed restoration of the Colonnade, the interior route between the galleries and mansion, to provide essential structural repairs and a more hospitable experience.

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Ross Property Copper Beech Tree [Removed March 2022]

It was with great sadness that we said goodbye to the Ross Property Copper Beech tree. Learn more about the history of the tree and what we'll be planting next.

Learn More