By placing a cache here, I am hoping to draw the kind of attention to this beautiful historic treasure that will ensure its survival. Witnessing its advanced state of decay over the years has been heartbreaking. If you are at all moved by its uniqueness, architecture, history, or view, please speak up for its preservation. Thank you!
Montclair stockbroker James Turner spent $500,000 between 1914 and 1930 to establish Lusscroft as a model dairy farm, based upon up-todate principles of scientific agriculture. He built his country manorhouse on Neilson Road in 1916, enlarging it in 1928. It overlooks a scenic patchwork of pastures, ponds, woodlots and barnyards, where farm manager Edward Decker once supervised the finest purebred Guernsey herd in the region. In 1930, James Turner had craftsmen salvage antique timbers from twenty-five barns and houses to construct the “Outlook Lodge” atop the ridge for his brother, Dr. William Turner. With a brick inglenook, this Arts-and-Crafts masterpiece of chestnut log construction offers a panoramic view of the Kittatinny Valley and Highlands.
In 1931, Mr. Turner donated his Lusscroft to the State of New Jersey in order for it to be used as an agricultural research station. Cook College established a forestry program in 1955, and research actively continued until 1970. Rutgers University retained Lusscroft for use as an outdoor education center for the 4-H youth program. The facility closed in 1996 due to declining enrollment and rising maintenance costs.
The State of NJ transferred the administration of Lusscroft from Rutgers University to the NJ Department of Environmental Protection (State Park Service) and the State Agricultural Development Committee in January 2002. The transfer encompasses 578 acres, including 23 original structures built between 1914 and 1932. High Point State Park now administers Lusscroft in cooperation with the State Agriculture Development Committee.
The Heritage and Agriculture Association (H&AA) is working to stabilize and then restore the neglected buildings of this agriculturally significant gem. They are a non-profit "Friends" group that has begun a grassroots campaign to promote the adaptive re-use of Lusscroft Farm's assets. They currently host birding and nature walks, horseback riding, and various fundraising events. Contact: info@lusscroftfarm.com
With its rich agricultural history, unique buildings, and breathtaking scenery, Lusscroft Farm will become a vital Sussex County destination for all.