Blake Dean Hayes, member of SHS Class of '68, received his B.A. in history from the University at Albany in 1972, furthering his education in Restoration and Preservation Technology at St. Lawrence College in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. This served as a springboard to launch his life-long career in historical preservation, restoration and museum work. As a Restoration Specialist, Blake spearheaded many projects for the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village, Dearborn, Michigan. This included the Harvey Firestone Farm and House in Ohio which was dismantled and shipped to the museum; The Buckminster Fuller Dymaxion House, a 1940 diner and gas station, the Wright Brothers' House and the 1960s' recording studios of Motown Records. He was a co-creator of the Henry Ford Museum's American Automobile made in America exhibits. The latter part of Blake's life was spent in Cherry Valley, New York. There he was the founder and director of the Cherry Valley Group, an organization of professionals designed to provide historic and preservation services and exhibits for museums and cultural organizations. More than fifty projects were completed in 15 years.
A colleague stated that during that time, Blake's enthusiasm and drive for the work never seemed to diminish and clients were well served. Blake's devotion to historical preservation inspired his service to many community boards in both Cherry Valley and other places he lived.
He served on the Cherry Valley Village Planning Board and was a charter member and president of the Green Bay Area Preservation League, Wisconsin. While living in Ypsilanti, Michigan, Blake was a commissioner of the Ypsilanti Commission, and it was said that he contributed not only his expertise but a wicked sense of humor.
In 2004 he was the recipient of the prestigious Schlebecker Award from the Association of Living History, Farm and Agricultural Museums, an organization to which he volunteered numerous hours and served as webmaster. On another note, Blake's passion for life led him to myriad interests and pursuits all with a common denominator of his love of people. He was a one-man social hub known for his humor, hospitality and good cooking. In a testimonial to Blake a colleague wrote that he had so much knowledge of so many topics.
His passions included food, architecture, politics, art, gardening, restoration, literature, maple syrup production and barbecue. It can well be said that to have known Blake was truly a gift.