In a momentous ceremony, Historic Hotels of America® bestowed the prestigious 2023 Steward of History and Historic Preservation Award upon Jane Forbes Clark and the Clark Family of Cooperstown, New York. This esteemed accolade recognizes their unwavering dedication to preserving the cultural, historical, and communal heritage of Cooperstown, particularly through their stewardship of The Otesaga Hotel, an iconic 1909 resort.
For nearly 150 years, the Clark family has played a pivotal role in shaping the legacy of Cooperstown, paying tribute to the renowned American author James Fenimore Cooper. Their commitment to civic responsibility began with Edward Clark, who arrived in Cooperstown with a fervent passion for land preservation. This sense of duty has been carried forth through generations, resulting in the development of the splendid Otesaga Hotel in 1909, a testament to their dedication to preserving heritage.
The Otesaga Hotel, lauded for its opulent amenities and cutting-edge engineering, has stood as a jewel in Cooperstown's crown. The Clark family's contributions extend far beyond this magnificent establishment. Edward S. Clark and Stephen C. Clark leveraged their interests to create enduring legacies, including the Leatherstocking Golf Course, a jewel in New York's golfing landscape, and the Clark Foundation, a prominent charitable organization.
Clark, the granddaughter of Stephen C. Clark, has continued this legacy as the President of the Clark Foundation, Chairman of Bassett Medical Center, and Chairman of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. Her tireless efforts have been instrumental in preserving the village's charm and cultural significance for both residents and visitors.
Upon receiving the award, Clark expressed profound gratitude, emphasizing the family's enduring vision for the Otesaga Hotel and Cooperstown. She acknowledged the importance of preserving the village's rich culture and history, ensuring its relevance for future generations.
Further, Lawrence Horwitz, Executive Vice President at Historic Hotels of America, hailed the Clark family's exceptional contributions and lauded their exemplary record of historic preservation. Their dedication to Cooperstown's heritage, he noted, has been unwavering since the mid-19th century.
The awarding of this honor also pays tribute to the Clark family's instrumental role in establishing the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, an institution that celebrates the sport's luminaries. Their support for organizations like the Farmers' Museum and the Fenimore Art Museum further demonstrates their legacy.
Clark's tireless stewardship and the Clark family's enduring dedication to Cooperstown have solidified their place in history. As the guardians of the Otesaga Hotel, they have not only preserved a piece of American history but also ensured its vibrant future for generations to come. Their legacy is a testament to the power of family, heritage, and a deep commitment to preserving the past for the future.
