Spring 2000 Page 2

HISTORIC BUILDINGS UPDATE

On May 18, Mary Lou McFarland, Conservancy President, testified in Montgomery County Orphans Court regarding the proposed subdivision and sale of the historic Dannenberg House along with 2.3 acres. Dr. Arthur Dannenberg donated the property to Upper Dublin Township with the provision that the house and 9.5 acres be open to the public. The township found that over the years it had become increasingly difficult to take care of the house. The surrounding open space was also underutilized.

In September 1996, following an unprecedented flood, the Conservancy began to work with the township to find a use for the house. A committee of preservation professionals was formed to help with the task. When a public use could not be found, the idea to subdivide and sell was proposed and approved by the township.

Due to a trust agreement that was left with the property, Orphans Court approval was required. Judge Ott approved the Cy Pres petition on May 22. Following the hearing, he commended all parties involved for working together to present the petition.

Bid packages will now be issued to potential buyers. Conservation and facade easements will be held by the Conservancy and will prevent the demolition of the house and the construction of any additional houses on the property. The remaining 7.2 acres will continue to be owned and maintained as passive recreation by the township. A small parking area and trail will be constructed near the Sandy Run Creek, which flows through the property.

The house was built in three sections, the earliest dating approximately to the early 18th century. It contains: 1st floor: living room, dining room, kitchen; 2nd floor: three bedrooms, 3 bathrooms; 3rd floor: large open room with bath. If you are interested (or you know someone who is), please call CMC at 215-283-0383.

BLACK HORSE TAVERN

SPRINGFIELD TOWNSHIP

Once seven inns served travelers and the farmers bringing grain to and from the local mills along the Bethlehem Pike in Springfield Township. Of the four remaining inns, the Black Horse, c. 1744, faces the threat of demolition. The Conservancy along with the Springfield Township Historical Society and the Preservation Alliance of Greater Philadelphia is working with Springfield Township to develop a solution to accommodate development yet save the historic landmark.

SCHEETZ/LUKENS HOUSE

WHITEMARSH TOWNSHIP

Located adjacent to the Fellwick station on the SEPTA R5 rail line, this early 18th century property is waiting for the right owner to revive it. CMC has been working with SEPTA and the township to ensure that this building will not succumb to demolition. The property was once home to General Henry Scheetz, who served in the War of 1812. The house is located within the 1777 encampment area of Washington’s troops. SEPTA has cleaned out and boarded up the building and is interested in talking with prospective buyers or long-term lessees. For more information call CMC at 215-283-0383.

NORMANDY FARM UNDER NEW AGREEMENT

WHITPAIN TOWNSHIP

Since our last newsletter, the Conservancy has learned that this 10 acre historic compound is now under agreement of sale. The present owner was unable to obtain financing for a bed and breakfast, conference and banquet facilities. The potential new owner plans a similar use along with offices.

We will be working over the summer to meet with the new owner, the township and other parties to insure the preservation of this important and irreplaceable historic and open space resource.