A Year and a Day Later…

A year and a day after H.O.P.E.’s first community meeting seeking support for the restoration of the Crusen & Cooper Houses and we’re proud to announce that the organization is now the owner of both of these historic homes.   Our special thanks to Norman Beatty, Dan Beatty, and First Hope Bank for their assistance, including financing the purchase of the properties.

Currently, Margo Biblin and Ellen Benoit are helping H.O.P.E. finalize two applications for Historic Site Management grants through Preservation New Jersey.  The deadline for submitting the applications and numerous attachments is April 24, 2025, at 4 pm.  With a little luck, everything will be finalized and submitted well in advance of the deadline.  Mio French has graciously agreed to read through both applications and offer her editorial assistance.  Mio’s efforts in grant writing for the restoration of the Long House resulted in funding seven out of eight grant applications submitted—almost a 90% “win” rate!

In addition to State funding, H.O.P.E. will be submitting an application to the Warren County Municipal Charitable & Conservancy Trust for a grant to help with the costs of acquiring the two properties.

We’re a long way from seeing actual work begin to restore the Crusen and Cooper Houses, but we wanted to make you aware of the major step that was accomplished this morning when H.O.P.E. acquired ownership of the properties.

Click HERE to view and download H.O.P.E.’s formal press release.