§2 Progress Report

Since the publication in 1968 of the first record of local history by the Little Nine Partners Historical Society, that book­let on Hammertown by Charlotte Slingerland Tuttle Kester has encouraged further works, both in the restoration of the Harris-­Husted house at Hammertown and in the gathering of more local history for publication.

Encouraged by the advice and enthusiasm of architectural historian Daniel Hopping of the New York State Council of the Arts, recent developments have included painting of the exterior of the house, plaster repairs in the three rooms on the top floor, removal of paint from walls, ceilings and woodwork and repainting these rooms, and the re-grading of the terrain. An attractive roadside sign now marks the site of the restoration.

Among the recent programs offered by the Society were the following: a slide program by Arlene Bondos, public information officer of the staff of the Dutchess County Planning Board, pre­senting a program of fifty slides showing County landmarks of historical and architectural significance; a talk on community relations by Philip Yenawine, a representative of the State Coun­cil of the Arts; a paper on Briarcliff Farms from its earliest days, presented by William P. Fahey, and a slide lecture on local houses worthy of rehabilitation, by Kenneth Toole, Organizing Director of the Dutchess County Landmarks Association.

Correspondence was conducted with the Office of State His­tory about the condition of existing and future historical markers. Valuable records, maps, deeds, wills, and photographs turned over to the Society were catalogued and provision made for their safe­keeping.

The Society supported a bill in the State Legislature to erect a memorial marker to honor New York troops stationed at Valley Forge during the historic winter of 1777-78.

Other activities included free band concerts at the Town Beach, an auction, a tag sale, a testimonial dinner in honor of the proprietors of the Cock 'n' Bull Restaurant; and, for supporters of the Society, programs of color slides with musical background, a piano concert and a champagne supper.

We feel that we are encouraging the building of a positive thing in our area. We need cooperation, both in dreaming and in digging. Perhaps some of you reading this will join our group which is committed to discovering and recording the past life and activities in this little corner of America. We welcome your help and your concern.

Foreword	Table of Contents		The Felix M. Warburg Memorial Hall of the American Museum of Natural History, New York City
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