The Monmouth County Historical Commission recently awarded preservation grants for 13 restoration projects totaling $60,160.
The following local organizations received a grant:
Allentown Public Library Association, steeple restoration, $6,000
Friends of Millstone Historic Properties, Allen Barns, cedar siding, $5,920
Friends of the Old Yellow Meeting House, Upper Freehold Township, exterior painting, $5,834.
“Most people are not simply satisfied to read about Monmouth County’s history; they want to experience history and visit our many sites,” said Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, liaison to the county historical commission. “I am proud to say the county strives to preserve historic structures that help remind us we must treasure and remember our roots and the people who built our communities.”
The historical commission is dedicated to preserving the past and creating a living history, according to the organization. The types of projects eligible for funding are preservation, restoration or rehabilitation of historic structures, usually 50 years or older, and which are accessible to the public. The program essentially covers structural work for projects commonly known as “bricks and mortar” undertakings.
“The historical commission provides both sustained support and an open door for new projects,” said John Fabiano, executive director of the historical commission. “Once again, we have an interesting mix of grantees that are moving these great preservation projects forward.”
Each grant application must include a description of the mission, its meaning to history and the significance and the audience it serves. It must also include a detailed budget, a source of funding available for the applicant’s dollar-for-dollar contribution, detailed quotations for the work, the materials to be used and a time frame for completion.
Each grantee is required to submit interim and final reports. The interim report is due when 50 percent of the work is completed. The final report, due at completion, must show evidence of completion and a canceled check to document payment to the contractor.