Letter to the Editor: Keep the Croft House At Teatown

As a career naturalist and as Teatown’s first director, I have been following the divisive issue of the Croft with much interest - from our home here in Maine.

As one with an interest in ‘historic’ preservation - and an active member of a local historical society - I find myself with an inner conflict of my own on this tough decision. But in balance, I think the building should remain intact and maintained.

Why?? The structure is unique and irreplaceable. To remove it from the landscape would have its own environmental costs in energy required for destruction and transportation of waste and salvage. Removal would only allow for restoration of a very small plot of land to nature vis a vis the 1000 acres now under Teatown’s conservation. Of far more value is the building itself, for its history, for expansion of space for environmental education, potential staff housing, museum, public meetings, auditorium, and storage.

The costs of preservation cannot be ignored. But would they be prohibitive? Not with a mutual cooperation from the multiple organizations on both sides of the issue. An endowment fund could be set up for restoration and maintenance, achieved by contributions from each organization, Teatown members, foundations, and the public at large. Teatown would benefit from a new theater of interest via historical groups, leading to expanded raison d’être and a subsequent rise in membership. It would be a win-=win situation for all. While the money needed would be substantial, so too is the financial base of the region upon which to draw. If such a worthy project cannot be achieved in one of the most prosperous areas of our nation, where else could it come to be?

Sincerely,
Warren Balgooyen