Mike Kenyon

In Alfred , the name Mike Kenyon most often conjures an image of the Mike Kenyon playground on South Main Street. Mr. Kenyon, born Myron Elwood Kenyon, was known in the community for being particularly kind and generous to Alfred children; in 1974 the park was named in his honor for his 80th birthday. Kenyon was also a talented woodworker and took great pleasure in salvaging material from fires, demolitions, and renovations on the Alfred University campus and giving these pieces new life.
Pictured here is a turned wood gavel and base made by Kenyon from wood salvaged from the November 1932 fire at the Brick dormitory. While this fire didn’t destroy the historic building completely, the iconic cupola and fourth floor were a total loss. From the fire emerged the Brick silhouette we know today, as well as this wonderful tribute to salvage, reuse, and art.