SHOREHAM, NY — Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe (TSCW),
the last remaining laboratory of famed inventor Nikola Tesla, was damaged by a serious fire on
the afternoon of November 21.
Situated on a 16.5-acre site on Long Island in New York, the multi-building facility – listed on the
National Historic Register — is undergoing a thorough assessment by engineers and local
officials to determine the full extent of fire-related damages.
To help cover fire remediation costs, the Center has launched an international, $3-million
Indiegogo fundraising campaign called the “Mission Rebuild” fund.
More than 100 firefighters, from seventeen local fire departments and ambulance corps, had
responded to the blaze, which was fully extinguished the next morning.
Center officials had been preparing to commence a $20-million restoration and redevelopment
of the historic laboratory complex. The $3-million Indiegogo “Mission Rebuild” fund will be
separate from the in-place redevelopment drive.
“Everyone associated with Tesla Science Center owes a tremendous debt of gratitude to the
many heroic first responders for their extraordinary courage and determination,” said TSCW
Executive Director Marc Alessi. “We are immensely grateful for the commitment and bravery of
our local firefighters.”
The extent of damage is now being assessed by TSCW’s site engineer, the laboratory’s
historical architect, a structural engineering firm, and multiple local agencies. Their analysis will
help determine the fire’s specific impact on restoration plans.
“While we were poised to begin a significant renovation and restoration project,” Mr. Alessi said,
“construction had not yet commenced, sparing us from additional complexities at this stage.”
Mr. Alessi expressed relief that the overall structural integrity of the building, dating back to
1901, seemed to have largely withstood the fire’s effects.
“The public’s support and understanding in these challenging times are invaluable,” Mr. Alessi
said. “If you’ve been inspired by Tesla ‘s life and career, you can take action by participating in
our Indiegogo ‘Mission Rebuild’ fundraising initiative.
“Together, we will navigate this crisis and emerge stronger, honoring the legacy of Nikola Tesla
and the spirit of innovation, determination, and resiliency that this center embodies.”
Nikola Tesla was the inventor of the motor that distributes alternating current (AC) electricity,
and many other innovations. AC electricity serves as the basis for the power grid system, which
in turn allowed for the introduction of wi-fi, radio, remote controls, and robotics.
For ongoing updates and further information, please visit www.teslasciencecenter.org.
About Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe
Tesla Science Center at Wardenclyffe (TSCW) is the last remaining laboratory of Nikola Tesla.
TSCW first acquired the 16.5-acre property — designed by renowned architect Stanford White —
and then initiated a restoration and redevelopment process. The restoration will transform the
former working laboratory into a global innovation center, an educational facility, and a museum.
Contact:
Mark Grossman
Mark Grossman Public Relations
press@teslasciencecenter.org or mark@markgrossmanpr.com
Tel/Text: 631-786-0404
