George E. Pataki; Governor New York State Executive Chamber
State Capital Albany, NY 12224
Dear Governor Pataki:
I
am writing on behalf of the S. S. Canadiana and wish to add my name to those in
support.
We are aware of the difficulties the Canadiana restoration
project is having in Buffalo with their efforts to restore this classic and
historic ship. ~ We believe the New York State Department of Transportation is
now, improperly, refusing to turn over I.S.T.E.A. funding which was awarded the
S. S. Canadiana in December 1994.
Please step in and investigate. ~
Please tell the Department of Transportation to reconsider their actions. ~ The
Canadiana is an irreplaceable historic structure that will otherwise be lost.
There are many reasons to preserve such a grand ship as this. ~ It holds
tremendous historic and educational value. ~ It is a symbol of the 200 year
maritime era which settled and produced this country. ~ It's triple expansion
steam engine is the type that drove 600 foot palatial passenger steamers from
Buffalo NY, then the largest passenger port in the world, inland across the
Great Lakes. ~ It is the last example of such ships that can be made to sail
again and of the work of Navel Architect Frank Kirby; the Frank Lloyd Wright of
the Great Lakes.
Beyond the historic and educational, a sailing
Canadiana
will put millions of dollars into the Western New York economy every season. ~
The Canadiana can continue to provide these benefits to the people of Western
New York and across the country for decades to come. Beyond even this, but far
from least, are the social goods the ship will provide; the children who will be
able to access our beautiful lake, the families who will find common ground to
enjoy together.
We need the Canadiana. ~ The entire country will
suffer a loss if this ship is not saved. ~ It is much more than Buffalo's
history; it is a part of our national heritage.
