Back in April there were some updates on the preservation efforts of the 151-year-old smallpox hospital on Roosevelt Island, and word is that, as of yesterday, it's been saved from total destruction. However, NY1 reports that Trust for Public Land's Andy Stone "said the restoration process is painstaking and delicate, since every piece that fell down had to catalogued, and there are hundreds of pieces still waiting to be reattached." amNewYork also reports on the city’s only landmarked ruin, noting that aside from those finishing touches, it has "finished a $4.5 million stabilization after a portion collapsed in December 2007." Now that the structure is sturdy once again, ground was broken yesterday for the construction of Southpoint Park, which will encompass both the ruins and the Strecker Lab and will include "two large lawns, a scenic overlook and gardens along the southernmost part of the island." Look forward to frolicking there around Fall 2010. more ›

Back in 2007, at a youthful 151-years-old, the eerie smallpox hospital on Roosevelt Island suffered a major collapse on the north facade. The NY Times checks in now, as a team of engineers, architects, masons and more have swooped in to save the landmark, which was designed by James Renwick Jr., the architect of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Take a look at the progress on the guided video tour, where they mention the future fixed-up structure could house performances and a cafe. Too bad it won't be in time for the Roosevelt Live concert series. more ›

A well-known ruin is crumbling. According to Roosevelt Island Historical Society president and historian Judith Berdy, part of the north wing of the Smallpox Hospital collapsed about a week ago. She writes, "The rest of the north wing especially the front is in danger of coming down any time... [The Roosevelt Island Operation Corporation] is working with TPL, the Southpoint park developers to find a way to do emergency stabilization of the rest of the building... Please encourage RIOC to do all possible to save the rest of the building." more ›

Sometimes, those crazy kids on craigslist just make us smile. Take, for instance, this post from yesterday:

Attention eccentric millionaires! As per the classic horror films of days gone by, I hearby offer the following service: I will spend the night in your creepy haunted mansion in exchange for $1 million. If you have ever dreamed of staging your own Castle of Blood/House on haunted Hill style dare of this nature, then let my availability be the impetus that spurs you toward realizing your crazy dream of paying someone to spend the night in your haunted mansion (castle acceptable as well). I have my own transportation and am willing to travel, though I will also accept it if you prefer to send a hearse limo to pick me up. I am also willing to take part in a competition where you invite five or six people, and whoever survives the night gets the money.