Restoration & Construction
Thomas Tischer Visitor Center
Restoration of the Colonnade, 2019.
Restoration of the Palm House, 2012.
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: Tuesday, March 5, 2024
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
Chimney & Parapet 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. We are seeking grant funding from New York State and the Regional Economic Development Council to support this project, National Historic Landmark Restoration—Chimneys and Parapets.
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.
These original structures were designed by renowned architects. Alling S. DeForest provided the overall landscape design and collaborated with J. Foster Warner, who designed both the Pergola (built in 1905) and Grape Arbor (1921). In 1916, Eastman commissioned architect Claude Bragdon to design both the Loggia and the West Garden. When Eastman resided here, the structures were used for relaxation, entertaining, and as a backdrop for promotional photography to market Kodak film. Today, they are integral to the visitor experience, popular for wedding and event photography, and enjoyed by the community.
The museum has received a grant of $600,000 from the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation in conjunction with the Finger Lakes Regional Economic Development Council for the project.
Press Release: George Eastman Museum Receives $600,000 Grant Restoration its Historic Garden Structures
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.
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.
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.