Rare books and famous artwork could soon leave Aurora as Wells College pushes to sell off valuable items, according to The Citizen.
The closed college asked Cayuga County Court for permission to auction artwork, rare books, and other valuables it says it no longer needs. The collection includes an original copy of Moby-Dick, Isaac Newton’s Opticks, and artwork tied to names like Rembrandt and Picasso.
Wells College says maintaining the items costs too much and auctions offer the fastest return. Appraisals put some pieces well into six figures. Alumni groups argue the school should keep historically important items in central New York, especially since the campus sale could cover its debts. A court conference is set for Feb. 24 before Cayuga County Court.
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