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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2009-06-15; Parks & Recreation Commission; 0609-2; Receipt of donation from QuestersPARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION - AGENDA BILL AB# 10609-2 MTG. DATE: 6/15/09 STAFF: | CALARCO RECEIPT OF DONATION FROM QUESTERS EL CAMINO REAL CHAPTER _ _ ACTION RECOMMENDED ACTION: Receive donation of restoration services and recommend acceptance by the City Council. ITEM EXPLANATION: In 2008, the City of Carlsbad Parks and Recreation Department formed a partnership with the Questers El Camino Real Chapter with the intent of repairing and preserving the unique historic Monterey furniture collection in the Horseman's Bedroom at the Leo Carrillo Ranch. In addition, the Questers offered their financial support in the specialty cleaning and minor repair of several items of original clothing in the collection (Exhibit 1). The Questers is an international organization whose primary objective is to promote an appreciation of antiques and their collection, and to encourage the preservation and restoration of existing historical landmarks. Questers members are dedicated to preserving the best of the community's heritage for future generations. Thanks to the Questers' generous financial support of nearly $4,000 of restoration services to date, the Parks and Recreation Department was able to preserve and restore a unique set of furniture that belonged to Leo Carrillo. The Monterey bedroom set was manufactured specifically for Carrillo in the late 1930s by Mason Manufacturing Company in Los Angeles. It is constructed from Oregon alder and is finished in a "Smokey Maple" stain. The leatherwork is embossed with intricate western designs, and incorporates elements of fine saddle and bridle work. Ranch archivist, Gerry Streff, sought the professional services of master craftsmen in wood working (Mike Roxy) and leather working (Tom Morgan). Repaired damage to the wood furniture included cigarette burns, split boards, water, paint and chemical damage and extensive abrasion. Metal fixtures (spurs, stirrups, and leather buckles) were cleaned and restored. Lastly, the leather was carefully removed, repaired and conditioned before being reattached to the furniture. Replacement leather straps were fabricated using aged leather and buckles. The purpose of the restoration project was to highlight the natural aging process that occurred over the years, to repair broken elements, and to preserve the wood and leather so it may last another 70 years or more. The Parks and Recreation Department wishes to acknowledge the generous support and lasting contribution of the Questers El Camino Chapter. The newly restored Monterey furniture and items of clothing will be on public display at the Carrillo Ranch for visitors to enjoy. FISCAL IMPACT: None EXHIBITS: 1. Photos of restored furniture and clothing EXHIBIT 1 Before: Examples of damage to saddle desk chair included torn and damaged leather, and scratched, discolored and water damaged wood. Before: Examples of leather damage included a torn and mildewed leather saddlebag feature. Also, note water damage, fading and scratching of wood. BEST After: Restored desk and saddle chair. Note leather wrapped drawer handles. After: Restored dresser, mirror and armoire. Stirrups hang from leather straps attached to the mirror, and spurs accentuate the handles on the armoire. BEST After: restored headboard. Missing leather straps and buckles were restored. Note cowboy hat motif on center of headboard. Cleaned and restored western riding outfit made by Nathan Turk of Hollywood. Leo would reguarly wear these outfits during his numerous public appearances. Cleaned and restored riding outfits. Note detailed embroidery on back of shirt and on pants.