The Backstory
Outlook Lodge at Lusscroft Farm in Wantage, NJ, is an architectural gem, being perhaps the finest expression of the Arts and Crafts movement in New Jersey.
And we are in danger of losing it forever.
It has several large holes in the slate roof, allowing water to damage the support beams inside.
The Heritage and Agriculture Association, Inc. is raising funds to brace and stabilize the interior timbers and repair the holes in the roof.
This fundraiser will stabilize the structure for at least 5 years until further funds can be raised to fully restore this magnificent, unique building.
James Turner, owner of Lusscroft Farm, built spectacular "Outlook Lodge" in 1930 for his brother, Dr. William Turner. Workmen scavenged antique timbers from 25 barns and houses for use in it's construction.
Quirky cameos of fish, birds, balls, a hat, a horn and a face are imbedded in the brick and timbers on the exterior walls, with the most notable being the large tree branch and owl built into the brick chimney. Jersey white pine boards from Asher Snook's Branchville saw mill cover the floors and ceiling. With an amazing brick inglenook enclosing the fireplace, this Arts and Crafts masterpiece of chestnut log construction offered a panoramic view of the Kittatinny Valley and Highlands.
Being an alumnus of Amherst College, Mr. Turner obtained a heavy oak panel from Lord Jeffrey Amherst's castle in Kent, England, which he proudly displayed on a wall beside the brick inglenook of his mountaintop retreat. The panel has recently been removed and stored for safekeeping by High Point State Park officials. Lusscroft Farm is now affiliated with High Point State Park.
Outlook Lodge has been used in the past as a group recreational facility; summer dormitories for Rutgers forestry students; 4-H groups and more.
Who we are:
The Heritage and Agriculture Association, Inc., an all volunteer registered non profit group, is working with High Point State Park and the NJ DEP/Division of Parks and Forestry to save this wonderfully unique cabin that is almost 100 years old. The Heritage and Agriculture Association, Inc. in the past has successfully raised funds to repair many of the buildings at historic Lusscroft Farm, but Outlook Lodge is in dire need of help beyond our current resources.
How you can help:
Outlook Lodge, because of it's remote location and amount of work required, needs your help to be saved. Every penny of your tax deductible donation goes specifically to the Outlook Lodge restoration fund. Another way to help is to share this information to help spread awareness! Also, if you live near Lusscroft Farm, volunteering with the Heritage and Agriculture Association, Inc. will be deeply appreciated.
Scope of work:
Holes in the slate roof are causing serious water damage to the timbers supporting the roof, and if remedial action is not started soon, the roof will collapse. Windows are missing, allowing rain and snow (and critters!) to get inside. Wall timbers are getting rotted from moisture too. The access trail to the lodge needs to be improved for construction vehicle access. Rental of a lift is required to work on the roof.
