The past serves the future.
YOUNG URBAN PRESERVATIONISTS
(YUPs)
of The Landmark Society of Western New York
We are an emerging generation of preservationists in the greater Rochester region dedicated to promoting inclusive, modern, and innovative preservation practices to help revitalize communities and our built environment. And we have fun doing it!
VOLUNTEER WITH YUPs!
Looking for ways to get involved with YUPs? We meet monthly to discuss and plan events, volunteer opportunities, and social gatherings. Join us and help us get involved in our communities and preservation efforts! Email yup@landmarksociety.org for our current meeting schedule. We’d love to see you there!
We are planning for 2026! Let us know if you are interested in getting involved!
As we head into spring, the season of renewal and rebirth, the Young Urban Preservationists (YUPs) are shaking off winter and gearing up for a productive, fun, and collaborative year ahead. Like the landscapes and historic places we care about, YUPs are ready to bloom—and 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting one.
If you’ve ever been curious about getting involved with YUPs but weren’t sure where to start, this is your moment. Whether you’re interested in helping plan events, volunteering behind the scenes, or simply showing up to enjoy them, we’d love to have you join us. Below is a preview of what we’re hoping to tackle in 2026—and where we’re looking for help.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade Watch Party (March 2026)
We’re exploring the idea of hosting a YUPs St. Patrick’s Day Parade Watch Party in a historic building overlooking the parade route. Do you know of a space with Irish-related history and/or a great vantage point? Help us scout locations and make this event happen. We hope to pair the parade watch party with an educational (and interesting!) talk about Irish history in the Rochester area.
Day Trip to Buffalo
We’re in conversation with preservation partners in Buffalo about a possible day trip, potentially including a tour of Buffalo Central Terminal and other notable sites. Interested in helping coordinate logistics—or suggesting other must-see stops? Join the planning team!
West Sparta Cemetery Restoration Fundraiser
The West Sparta Historical Society is working to restore historic headstones but needs additional funding. YUPs hope to support this effort with a fall fundraiser to include pumpkin sales and “scary” cemetery tours. We’re especially eager to connect with farmers or gardeners willing to grow pumpkins for the cause.
Morgan-Manning House Museum Restoration Fundraiser
Following a devastating fire last winter, the Morgan-Manning House Museum in Brockport is embarking on a major restoration effort. As a significant local landmark with a preservation covenant held by The Landmark Society, this project is close to our hearts. YUPs want to help raise funds to support recovery—come help us brainstorm and plan a meaningful fundraiser.
Doors Open Toronto Trip (May 23–24, 2026)
Each spring, Doors Open Toronto offers free access to hundreds of remarkable buildings rarely open to the public. We’d like to plan a day or weekend trip and need volunteers to help organize carpools, lodging, itineraries, and maybe even a preservation-themed happy hour.
Bikes, Beers & Buildings (Summer 2026)
A YUPs favorite returns! We’re excited to bring back Bikes, Beers & Buildings and are looking for help finalizing the route, scavenger hunt clues, and brewery partnership.
Have another idea? Want to plan a tour, volunteer opportunity, or creative event tied to preservation and revitalization? We want to hear from you! YUPs meet on the third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM, and all are welcome. Email yup@landmarksociety.org or mhillyard@landmarksociety.org to receive meeting details.
We hope to connect with you soon!
The YUPs Team
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