Yerkes Transfer of Ownership Announced

[Sureshks]

Yerkes Future Foundation Announces Important News About Yerkes Observatory!

The University of Chicago and the Yerkes Future Foundation (YFF) are pleased to announce an agreement in principle for transfer of ownership of Yerkes Observatory and related property located in Williams Bay, Wisconsin to the Yerkes Future Foundation. Over the next several months, both organizations will be working closely on all aspects of the proposed transfer. Additional information will be made available as appropriate.
YFF’s objectives include restoration and refurbishing of the telescopes and building, reopening the space for visitors and establishing educational, research, seminars and various additional opportunities for students, astronomers, astrophysicists and others. Students and faculty in the University of Chicago’s Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics have continued to do educational and research work at Yerkes Observatory in the past year. The transfer to YFF will mark the conclusion of the University’s historic affiliation with Yerkes, allowing the University to make further investments in the future of the field, including projects such as the Giant Magellan Telescope.
Both the University and YFF would like to express their appreciation for the support shown by the Yerkes family, the Village of Williams Bay and many educators and scientists.

Dianna Colman
dcolman@charter.net

#saveyerkes #yerkesfuturefoundation #explorescientific #yerkesobservatory #allianceofhistoricobservatories #explorescientific

Suresh

[Deane Clark]

Yay!

After reading a few articles today, it sounds like they had to sort out some issues with Charles Yerkes’ heirs since his original bequest had a reversion clause that said he or his heirs would own the building and 40” refractor if the University of Chicago ever stopped using them for astronomical research.

[Sureshks]

I imagine that land is quite valuable. So I could see how the family would have an interest.

Suresh

[Deane Clark]

I imagine that land is quite valuable. So I could see how the family would have an interest.

Suresh

From what I read, the heirs have no actual claim to the land. That was given in a separate bequest without the reversion clause.

[Sureshks]

Here's a little bit more about the transfer plans.

https://www.lakegenevanews.net/news/loc ... er-share#1

Suresh

[Deane Clark]

Latest update now that the transfer to the Yerkes Future Foundation is complete:

https://madison.com/wsj/news/local/new- ... d3125.html