After a fire damaged the Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe in Shoreham last week, the organization has launched a $3 million emergency fire-restoration fundraising campaign.
The center is home to the last remaining laboratory of Nikola Tesla, whose many inventions include the motor that distributes alternating current (AC) electricity. AC electricity serves as the basis for the power grid system, which in turn allowed for the introduction of wi-fi, radio, remote controls and robotics.
Designed by Stanford White, the multi-building facility, listed on the National Historic Register, sits on a 16.5-acre site. That’s where fire broke out on the afternoon of Tuesday, Nov. 21, just before the Thanksgiving holiday weekend. More than 100 firefighters, from 17 local fire departments, as well as ambulance corps members responded to the blaze, which was fully extinguished the next morning.
The cause of the fire remains under investigation, although arson has been ruled out. Now, engineers and local officials are assessing the full extent of the fire-related damages. Currently, the organization is reporting that fire primarily damaged the northern side of the building, including partial destruction of the roof, chimney, and cupola. Currently, water damage from firefighting efforts is posing a significant short-term risk.
The center’s fundraising campaign, called the “Mission Rebuild” fund, on the Indiegogo platform, aims to prompt “urgently” needed funds to seal the roof and dry the building before winter sets in, according to the organization.
“Everyone associated with Tesla Science Center owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the many heroic first responders for their extraordinary courage and determination,” Marc Alessi, the center’s executive director, said in a written statement. “We are immensely grateful for the commitment and bravery of our local firefighters.”
Experts who are assessing the extent of damage include the center’s site engineer, the laboratory’s historical architect, a structural engineering firm, and multiple local agencies. Their analysis will help determine the fire’s specific impact on restoration plans.
The center had been gearing up to begin a $20 million restoration and development project of the Tesla lab. With the fire, however, the construction project is now delayed as the experts assess the immediate short-term needs such as repairing the roof and walls to maintain the building’s structural integrity. Still, the center aims to preserve as much of the original laboratory as possible, despite the loss of a portion in the fire. The goal here is to maintain historical accuracy and recognition of the laboratory as a symbol of hope and innovation globally.
“While we were poised to begin a significant renovation and restoration project, construction had not yet commenced, sparing us from additional complexities at this stage,” Alessi said.
Alessi expressed relief that the overall structural integrity of the building, dating back to 1901, seemed to have largely withstood the fire’s effects.
“The public’s support and understanding in these challenging times are invaluable,” Alessi said. “If you’ve been inspired by Tesla ‘s life and career, you can take action by participating in our Indiegogo ‘Mission Rebuild’ fundraising initiative.
“Together, we will navigate this crisis and emerge stronger, honoring the legacy of Nikola Tesla and the spirit of innovation, determination and resiliency that this center embodies,” he added.
Adina Genn
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