A renowned figure in the field of architecture and historic restoration, Samuel Wilson, Jr. influenced the realm of preservation and publishing in New Orleans. This book consists of a series of interviews between Wilson and Abbye A. Gorin and Dorothy G. Schlesinger for the Friends of the Cabildo, from 1980 through 1989. The collection of audio tape transcriptions—the unabridged edition of
Conversations with Samuel Wilson, Jr.—represents the early phases of a research project to reconstruct the history of the modern architectural preservation movement in New Orleans.
From Wilson’s interest in architecture at an early age to his association with the National Committee for the Preservation of Buildings in the AIA, fourteen transcripts cover the scholar’s career. Through candid conversations with Gorin and Schlesinger, he discusses his work on such historic landmarks as the Upper Pontalba Buildings, the Hermann-Grima House, and the Cabildo. He details the restoration process, inspiration, and history behind each establishment.
Wilson also notes his willingness to try new technology as architecture continues to change with time. In addition to promoting his architectural goals for the future, he set forth his plans to restore the Pitot House. This collection includes a list of references and an index.