The Mennonite Heritage Farm
Owned and operated by the
Adirondack Mennonite Heritage Association and Historical
Society
P.O. Box 368, 8778 Erie Canal
Road, Croghan, NY 13327
The Adirondack Mennonite Heritage
Association and Historical Society originated more than six generations after
the first Amish-Mennonite settlers arrived in the New World. The
emigration from Alsace-Lorraine in the first half of the Nineteenth Century to
the Lewis County area was a journey of faith. AMHA Board members and
supporters believe strongly in the need to perserve this unique religious and
cultural heritage. Great progress has already been made but much more needs to
be done.
One of the ways to remind the
current generation of the past is to show it to them. The Mennonite
Heritage Farm, located on the Erie Canal Road in Kirschnerville, was home to
three generations of the Moser family. They cleared the land, built a shelter,
and raised animals and crops. Later, they planted gardens, made butter and
cheese and operated a farm. The barn, granary, tools and equipment,
harnesses and fanning mill are part of an original farmstead where
Amish-Mennonite ancestors lived.
The farmhouse is of special interest
because it was in this setting, and other homes on a rotational format, where
religious services were held for approximately three generations. Displays in
the "Worship Room" help visitors gain an understanding of church practices
before 1912 when the Croghan Mennonite Church was built. The freedom to
worship without intervention was one of the reasons the decision was made to
settle in North America.
AMHA has established a clear goal
for the farmstead, which will eventually become a restored, well-maintained,
open-air museum. The Board and members of the Association are grateful for
past support. Donations, grants, volunteer labor and thousands of homemade
pies have accomplished much. Progress in achieving the goal of restoring
and maintaining the farm property is occurring in phases.
Phase I
The farm was purchased in February
1990, for $ 40,000; ten years later the mortgage was paid in full.
Phase II
During this period of time the focus
was primarily on maintenance and restoration projects. Work included the
installation of a new septic system, painting and staining , roof and wall
repairs, building a new front porch floor, and the installation of a security
system.
Phase III
The present phase is development of
the farmstead into an attractive living museum. Some projects, such as the
stabilization of the buildings, are of the highest priority. Establishing
the museum on the Mennonite Heritage Farm property will serve as a reminder of
God's faithfulness over many years. This memorial, similar to that of the
Israelites under Joshua's leadership, will have a significant impact on future
generations. The message of God's grace and faithfulness is
enduring.
AMHA is pleased to report progress
in raising funds for various projects related to the present phase. The
stone wall of the stable is being rebuilt this year (2005) with a fund balance
large enough to complete the work. Replacing the house roof this year is a
necessity. Two local businesses have made major contributions by donating
roofing materials needed including the shingles, paper and flashing. But
challenges lie ahead. Restoring the house will be labor-intensive because of the
time required to jack uneven areas, repair stone work and stabilize the entire
foundation and frame structure. The estimate for labor and materials for work
planned this year is $ 30,000. And additional funds will equal more
progress. Volunteer labor has been a valuable cost savings in the past and
is most appreciated. Financial donations are needed and will result in
successful steps in reaching the ultimate goal of developing the Mennonite
Heritage property.
The farmstead, when restored,
can help tell a faith story - a faith story which is a precious gift this
generation has inherited. This story will also benefit future generations. A
mark has been indelibly stamped on the local community and its churches.
At this crucial stage, AMHA is requesting that you prayerfully consider a
financial contribution. All contributions are tax deductable and can be sent to
the Association Treasurer.
The address
is:
Mrs. Carolyn
Henry
4348 Saunders
Road
Clinton, N.Y.
13323
Membership to the AMHA is also
available at the above address.
"......we will tell the next
generation the praiseworthy deeds of the Lord, his power, and the wonders he has
done."
Psalms 78:4
NIV