~ Proposal for a Heritage Center at Barnard Station ~

Sarah and Eusebius Barnard

Harriet Shepherd escapes to

the Barnard House www.kennettundergroundrr.org

PROJECT INFORMATION

Project Type: Heritage Preservation and Interpretation

Project Title: Historic Barnard Station

Project Location: South Wawaset Road, Pocopson Township, Chester County, PA

INTRODUCTION

The Eusebius Barnard House played an important role in the history of the township, region and country.

The Friends of Barnard Station is seeking to establish a public education Heritage Center focused on the abolition movement and local area

history preserving the integrity of the house and fostering greater appreciation of the role Pocopson Township played in American History.

The house was originally built in the 1700s and renovated in 1831 by Eusebius Barnard. The Pennsylvania Historical and Museum

Commission recognized Eusebius Barnard with a State Historical Marker in 2011. In 2014 the property was determined eligible for listing

in the National Register of Historic Places for its association with the Progressive Movement among local Quakers/Society of Friends and

the network of Underground Railroad efforts in southern Chester County, 1831-1915.

ADVANTAGES

PROPOSAL FOR PHASE 1:

Renovation and utilization of first floor for an office and rooms decorated with educational materials and displays.

One room will be available for meetings and presentations.

- Request grant for exterior door and window renovations to insure the building is weather resistant

- Raise funds and complete necessary repair and renovation work on the first floor to meet code requirements for occupancy

- Temporarily seal the stairwell to second floor

- Develop educational displays for the public to enjoy

Reduce township financial burden through

collaboration with the non-profit

Preserve the integrity of an historical site

Opportunity for education and inspiration

PROPOSAL FOR PHASE 2:

Feasibility Study project specific for the continuation of the development of the Barnard Station Heritage Center.

- A physical inventory and assessment of historic and natural features

- Financial feasibility and summary of alternatives. Determination of feasibility with a recommended plan for capital endowment

requirements, and annual management costs for long term operation

- Recommendations for viable interpretation/education program

- Recommendations for a Capital Campaign

- Recommendations for second floor renovation and use with necessary capital investment

Examples of successful township/non profit preservation organizations

The Grange Estate

Haverford Township

1696 Thomas Massey House

Marple Township

The Square Tavern

Newtown Township

The Paper Mill House

Newtown Township

Fricks Locks

East Coventry Township