Hallockville Museum Farm celebrated completion of the first phase of restoration of the historic Naugles Barn Thursday afternoon with a ribbon- cutting ceremony and a free reception.
“We are so excited to be opening these new doors of Naugles Barn to the public, marking the completion of the initial phase of the restoration project,” Hallockville Executive Director Heather Johnson said in a press release. “The barn is now more accessible, more usable and more durable, and thanks to the skilled crafts people who worked on the project, still the authentic 1937 structure. We thank them all,” she said.
Yesterday’s event included a musical performance by the Old Time Jam band and the opportunity to stroll around the historic farm and visit the animals and buildings.
The restoration work was performed by Heidtmann & Sons Builders of Cutchogue. The project included creation of three on-site restrooms with an innovative/alternative septic system, first-floor windows and doors including two new entrances, one of which is fully accessible, insulation in the walls, heating, a new staircase to the basement and another to a second floor storage space, and other improvements that will enable Hallockville to use the barn for activities and events year-round, the organization said. The barn also got a fresh coat of white paint, in keeping with its historic, local character and to protect it from the elements.
Hallockville Museum Farm was awarded a $500,000 grant award from New York State Council on the Arts to help fund costs of improving the structure, which has been restored over the years for use as a venue for weddings, parties and other events.
The timing of the Naugles Barn restoration coincides with Hallockville Museum Farm’s 50th anniversary, which will be formally celebrated on Aug. 21 at a fundraising dinner in honor of the Van de Wetering family. Persons interested in attending the anniversary celebration can find details and purchase tickets at the organization’s website.
“There’s more work that needs to be done to make the Naugles Barn a fully functioning, four-season structure, and we’re continuing to raise money for the project, as well as for the ongoing maintenance of the barn and the 18 other buildings on the property,” Johnson explained. “We are grateful to everyone who has supported this project to date and we look forward to continuing to serve this wonderful North Fork community for another 50 years and beyond.”
Hallockville Museum Farm is a 28-acre preserved farm homestead along Sound Avenue. It is listed on the State and National Registers of Historic Places.
The 501(c)(3) nonprofit that operates Hallockville is dedicated to taking Long Island back to its family-farming roots and exploring their relevance today.
RiverheadLOCAL photos by Emil Breitenbach Jr.
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