On November 11, Abbot Gerard and Fr. Isaac attended a meeting of The Landmark Society of Western, NY, to receive an award from them entitled: Historic Landscape Award. It read as follows:

The Landmark Society honors the Order of Cistercians of the Strict Observance for their continued care of and commitment to their historic property overlooking the Genesee Valley, near Piffard, in the town of York. Located on the west side of the Genesee River, this 2,400-acre property has been owned and maintained by this contemplative order of monks since 1951, when the monastery was established in this community. With magnificent views across the valley, the property includes agricultural land, open space, and woodlands that are managed with modem forestry techniques. A historic, Greek Revival cobblestone residence has been adapted for use as a retreat center, while their iconic Mid-Century Modern complex of buildings, set in a designed landscape, is the centerpiece of their campus. For their continued stewardship of this remarkable property, The Landmark Society recognizes the Order of the Cistercians of the Strict Observance with this Historic Landscape Award.

Awarded November 11, 2018 by The Landmark Sociey of Western New York.

We are grateful for the recognition and hope to continue the stewardship of our land in keeping with traditional Benedictine/Cistercian practice.