There has been a significant amount of recent activity centering on the Littell-Lord Farmstead. As of May 25, this is the status as the HSBH understands it.

      The Farmstead site consists of two main buildings, the “1760 House”, which contains the Farmstead Museum, and the “Grandmother House”, which was rented until a couple of months ago. The story of the “Grandmother House” can be read by

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     The Farmstead is the oldest continuously occupied farmstead in Union county, a status that should put Berkeley Heights on the short list of major attractions not only in the immediate area but throughout the state. To make it so is a goal on the HSBH. In the meantime, considerable work and money will be required to repair and maintain the two buildings. There are many issues that affect structures that were constructed before any building codes existed. The HSBH has made no secret about that. However, rumors that the “1760 House” is a health and safety hazard are totally false. Families have brought their children and not one ever expressed a concern about a danger to them.  School teachers have expressed interest in bringing classes to the Museum. If they thought the students would be in danger they would not have shown such interest.

    The “Grandmother House” has been under rental for over two decades. A couple of months ago it was reported that there was a floor “cave in” in the building. The rental agreement has been terminated and the building will be vacated by early June. None of the HSBH members have seen the damage nor has there been a recent structural report. There were rumors that the Town was contemplating demolition of the house. At the last Town Council meeting, Town Administrator John Bussiculo categorically stated that the Township has no such plans. The New Jersey Historical Register considers both buildings to be of significant historical value. The intention of the HSBH is to work in partnership with the Town to maintain the site for future generations.

     The use of part of the Farmstead for a Community Garden has been revived. The HSBH gave its approval for the garden when the idea was broached several years ago. It is our understanding that such a garden will not violate the Green Acres regulations, and we are willing to work with the Town and the Environmental Committee to develop the project and bring farming back to the farmstead.

     The Littell-Lord Farmstead and Museum should be a source of pride among Berkeley Heights residents. The HSBH is hoping for public support to keep it so.

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