Lusscroft Farm Wantage, NJ -A Sussex County/Garden State Treasure

A unique architectural element-archway leadin to the spiral staircase.

You don't need to spend much time at Lusscroft before you become totally enchanted and equally passionate about it's preservation. Drawn in not only by Lusscroft's long history, but by the exquisite detail and unique architectural features of the Manor house and the natural beauty that surrounds the barns, buildings and landscape, the property sparks the imagination. Lusscroft Farm is enchanting-it lulls you with its tranquil beauty and ear shocking quiet- while at the same time, stimulates the visual senses with bursts of color and texture.  Strolling through the manor house and immediate grounds, you can't help but notice the beauty of the design and materials selected in the construction of  this one-time manor home and research center.

The spiral staircase, bathed in natural lighting illuminating the main hall invites you to  explore of the upper floors. Wide plank floor boards and an unusual layout fills the imagination with visions of the home in its glory days and starkly contrasts with the damaged plaster walls and scheduled repairs awaiting funding.

Roof repairs have prevented further interior damage.

Time is not on the side of this timeless estate. Project funds are raised by the Friends of Lusscroft association-part of the Sussex County Heritage and Agriculture Association. As quickly as funds are raised, prioritized needs are met. Roof repair -water damage is the culprit behind much of the interior damage in the manor house- has been re- mediated.

Water damage to interior of Manor House.

Lusscroft Barn viewed from Manor House

A recently completed stabilization project on the magnificent  Lusscroft Barn has resulted in the creation of functional space and has made the building safe for use once again. Slow progress is being made-but there is much more to be done-particularly to Lusscroft's infrastructure and in totality it might just take a"king's ransome" OR the contributions of many who value the role this property has and will play in Garden State agriculture and ecology to restore this unique New Jersey Treasure and bring back its vitality to be shared with NJ residents and visitors. Lusscroft Farm symbolizes New Jersey Heritage, Achievement and Promise-and that makes all the effort worthwhile.

In addition to the  architectural elements that grace the buildings on  the property, Lusscroft's construction and design integrates a tribute to the region's natural diversity and beauty. A once active volcano may be responsible for making available the diversity of minerals and stone found throughout this section of Sussex County.
Clever use of the stone also reveals a record of Sussex County's geological history. Through the stone work visitors can easily see the geological diversity of the area without lifting a shovel.

Fine woodworking artistry in Manor House

Inside the manor house, beautiful wood floors, paneling and detailing add a welcoming warmth to each room. The charm, artistry and craftsmanship of the builders and architects who designed the home is inescapable. It is a distinct signature of American workmanship and pride from an era past. The enchantment is inescapable.




Equally inescapable is the urgency to address the work of stabilization, restoration and revitalization of the building.




Thanks to vision and cooperation of many on the local and state level, continued fundraising efforts dedicated to the cherished landmark have made a small dent in the "king's ransom" needed to preserve this Sussex County/Garden State treasure-not as a monument to the past- but one day as a living tribute to our County's agricultural and ecological bounty.

The Sussex County Heritage and Agriculture Association/Friends of Lusscroft Farm, has been tirelessly working to raise funds for the nuts and bolts work that must first be accomplished before the vision for Lusscroft future can be realized.

The Association hosts several fundraising opportunities on the Lusscroft property throughout the year and has already been successful in accomplishing stabilization projects that have made it possible for all to enjoy the property, owned by the State of New Jersey and managed by the Department of Environmental Protection/Division of Parks and Forestry.

Volunteers work to restore Lusscroft grounds.

Many critical projects are waiting much needed funding and contribution.

Lusscroft's scientific agricultural contributions have impacted the world-contributing to  improvements in the Dairy industry and production of milk and dairy products we enjoy. One can say if you've "got milk?" you can say "Thanks Lusscroft".  Now it's our turn to give back and again allow Lusscroft to realize its potential as an agricultural and ecological educational facility open to all Garden State residents and visitors.

For a full history of Lusscroft and to view the Master Plan for its future, visit
www.lusscroftfarm.org

Photos: N. Hreha All rights reserved. Contact Dandelion Creative for licensing information.