These two Bergen County landmarks will stay preserved thanks to new grants
Two historic buildings will get historically accurate roof upgrades after receiving Bergen County Open Space Trust Fund grants.
Garretson Forge and Farm in Fair Lawn and Wortendyke Barn in Park Ridge had a combined $580,000 in grant money approved by the Bergen County commissioners to help preserve the historic landmarks.
Both roofs will be constructed with cedar shake made from cedar trees, which would have been used when the buildings were constructed in 1700s.
“Historic preservation provides our residents a link to the roots of our community. Wortendyke Barn and Garretson Forge and Farm are two prime examples of how we can continue to understand our past while also preparing for our future,” Commissioner Chairman Tom Sullivan said. “We consider ourselves privileged to have the opportunity to continue the preservation of our county’s history.”
Garretson Forge and Farm, built in 1720, is one of the oldest historic sites in Bergen County, and it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Many Lenape tribe artifacts were discovered on the property over the years.
The property currently serves as a museum and garden where people can enjoy annual events such as the Harvest Festival and Dutch Christmas celebration and use the outdoor picnic and recreation area for gatherings.
"It means a lot, especially being born and raised here," Fair Lawn Mayor Kurt Peluso said. "I remember going on class trips, and as a father now I get to bring my children there to see history come alive."
The Bergen County Master Gardeners maintain the gardens on the property and grow historically accurate crops, such as medicinal herbs and native wildflowers. Tours and events at the museum are administered by Garretson Forge and Farm Restoration Inc., a nonprofit organization, which also ensures the appropriate upkeep of the living museum.
"Throughout the years there have been so many improvements, especially with the planting and gardening, and we want to make sure the structure is up to par," Peluso said. "We are excited the grant came through, especially when we see more and more historic sites having trouble staying afloat."
The farm was awarded $327,500 for the roof restoration.
“Bergen County is home to dozens of historical and culturally significant sites,” Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco said. “It is important that we continue to preserve these sites to help ensure their survival so that future generations can enjoy the many stories that have contributed to the rich legacy of Bergen County.”
The historic Dutch Wortendyke Barn in Park Ridge received $254,000 for its roof restoration. In 1770, it was built using only local resources and is one of nine Bergen County-owned historic sites. The barn was added to the National Register of Historic places in 1972.
"The barn is a real connection to our past and is a point of pride here," Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna said. "Park Ridge was once a significant economic hub in the area, and anything to connect us to our past we are proud of."
The unique construction of the barn allowed farmers to store a variety of crops and easily unload wagons through the large entrances on both sides. With so few similar barns left in New Jersey, Wortendyke serves as a historic reminder of Bergen County’s agricultural history.
The barn is used today for a concert series during the warmer months and as a gathering place for educational programs throughout the year.
“This is such a great thing, especially when money is tight and people are still recovering financially from the pandemic,” Misciagna said. “This is in the heart of our town, and we appreciate that it will be here and we can oversee it, passing on to the next generation.”
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Bergen County NJ historic landmarks receive grant money
