In June 2004 the Kennedy-Martin-Stelle Farmstead was formally listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Sites. Listing on the National Register followed several months later.
In July 2004, Somerset County awarded a $110,040 grant to fund stabilization work on the English Barn. This work was completed in March 2005. With routine maintenance, the barn can now be preserved indefinitely.
In September 2004, the New Jersey Historic Trust awarded a $440,400 grant for work on the Farmhouse, the Wagon House and the English Barn. Altogether, over $839,000 in grant funding has been secured so far to preserve the Farmstead.
Historic Building Architects, LLC, is currently preparing plans for the next exciting phase. By late 2006, three main farmstead buildings will be ready for adaptation to new uses, providing space for culture and art at this inspiring historic landmark.
2004 also saw the founding of the Friends of the Kennedy-Martin-Stelle Farmstead, a nonprofit corporation. In March 2005 the Friends signed a lease with Bernards Township to take over the preservation and management of the Farmstead.
2005 will see growth of the Friends group in membership as well as in the management responsibility for the Farmstead. The Friends will continue to assist Bernards Township officials during the grant-funded work, and will work with interested culture and art nonprofits to identify specific uses for the buildings.
Please
for information about membership in the Friends!