In the spring of 2001 Amy Page-Christiansen and I took a class on the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright, taught by Angela Bowen through West Lafayette Parks and Recreation. The class culminated in a field trip to Samara in March. I had signed up for the class because I was interested in FLW, but mainly because I had always been curious about SAMARA and wanted to see it. Wally Rogers acted as docent for our tour and mentioned the spring and fall study groups. Dr. Rogers invited anyone who was interested to participate in the spring group. At that time a topic had not been chosen.
Both Dr. Christian and Dr. Rogers seemed so welcoming and genuinely enthusiastic, that Amy and I stayed after to discuss the possibility of joining a study group. We were both interested in the materials at Samara, especially the unique mahogany, glass, and copper. Dr. Christian liked the idea, and wasted no time in contacting me and offering to loan me Patterson's book, Frank Lloyd Wright and the Meaning of Materials.
I was delighted to have an opportunity to return to SAMARA, and learn more. The study group was a diverse mix of people, all of whom had more background in architecture than either Amy or I, but they made us feel welcome. It was a nice atmosphere in which to learn, and develop an interest in architecture. I am looking forward to future involvement at SAMARA.