Schoharie Landmark Gets Financial Boost

Lasell Hall, the historic building that serves as home to the Schoharie Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, will receive some significant energy efficiency work with help from a $20,000 grant arranged by State Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Milford).

"This home, in the heart of the Village of Schoharie, is a tangible and historic reminder of our nation’s history. Applying modern energy efficiency measures will help keep the building vital and functioning for future generations," said Senator Seward. "And no tax dollars are involved -- these are funds from petroleum companies being turned around to produce energy savings."

A $20,000 grant from the state’s Petroleum Overcharge Restitution fund (POCR) will be applied to the overall cost of renovations, expected to be $35,900.

Lasell Hall was built in 1795 as a tavern and was owned by the Chester Lasell family in the early 1800s. In 1913, heirs of the Lasell family gave the property to the Schoharie Chapter of the DAR.

An energy audit conducted last year by the New York Power Authority found a number of opportunities for energy savings. They include storm window replacement; fire place damper replacement; additional insulation; new, energy efficient appliances; and miscellaneous repairs.
POCR is a fund established to provide restitution to consumers for overcharges by major petroleum companies in the past. No tax dollars are involved. In New York State, the fund is administered by the power authority.

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