OUR PROJECTS
Preserve Lawson Landmarks (PLL) was established in 2021 with priorities including the repair of the property’s six original water towers, including Judson Tower; repair of the stone walls and bridges throughout the property; and restoration of the boathouse. These structures are highlighted on this map.
COMPLETED PROJECTS
PROSPECT TOWER
Prospect Tower is back to its original glory thanks to the help of our donors, vendors, volunteers and in-kind donors. The new roof was a monumental undertaking and has been completely rebuilt. A new door in the original style was built and painted along with the installation of newly painted windows. The entire structure received a state-of-the-art, high-pressure surface cleaning and the trees and vegetation surrounding the tower were trimmed and cleared. We are beyond grateful to all those who donated to Preserve Lawson Landmarks first project. We are appreciative of your trust in us to get the job done!
Prospect Tower Before
Prospect Tower After
GUILD TOWER
Preserve Lawson Landmarks is thrilled to announce our second tower project is now complete. Guild Tower is located at the highly visible location just inside the main gates of the Green Lake Conference Center on Lawson Drive and Stone House Road. Guild Tower’s roof was in need of repair to stop further damage to the rest of the structure. The original clay roof tiles were removed and the compromised wood in the roof structure was replaced or repaired. A water and ice shield was applied, and a copper drip edge was added. The original clay tiles were then returned, with some new tiles added to replace damaged tiles. The second floor had a crumbling cement bench with exposed rebar, which was removed, and all the concrete on the stairs was patched. Non-original glass-block windows were removed on the second floor bringing back the unobstructed views all around. Tree and brush removal and a low-power pressure wash rounded out the finishing touches. We encourage you to stop and visit the newly restored Guild Tower.
Guild Tower Before
Guild Tower After
PROJECTS in progress
TEEN TOWER
Work is already underway on Teen Tower, with its prime location overlooking Norwegian Bay. Necessary tree-trimming has exposed the beautiful lake views from the second floor. Pitch issues on the second level concrete deck are being addressed to curb further water damage. Concrete patching and porch sealing are in motion. The best news…..Teen Tower will be getting a new roof this summer. Stay tuned for these and other preservation steps for Teen Tower.
FUTURE PROJECTS
WATER TOWERS
There are six original water towers on the grounds, each built during the Lawson era, between 1911 and 1914. Each tower was initially filled with water from its own well, and the towers were used for watering nearby plants and gardens, as well as to suppress the dust from the unpaved roads. Judson Tower is perhaps the area’s most famous landmark. It was built in 1908 and stands 200 feet above the lake level. It was built for use as a 75,000-gallon water tank by the Lawsons. While all six towers need repair, Prospect Tower was identified by Preserve Lawson Landmarks as the priority and the first restoration project of that tower has been completed.
STONE WALLS AND BRIDGES
There are stone walls and bridges throughout the grounds. The stones are boulders created by glaciers in the area and the Lawsons paid area farmers 50 cents a load for their stones.
BOATHOUSE
The boathouse was built in 1910, based on a design Jessie Lawson saw in Switzerland. The original green roof tiles were imported from Italy.