Open to all interested parties, the workshop "can be viewed as a work week project, not unlike an old-fashioned barn-raising," explains Judith Broeker, HCN's program director. HCN workshops help bricks and mortar preservation projects succeed while increasing the ability of people to care for the built environment. "We want each person attending a workshop to feel they have had a valuable hands-on learning experience while making a real contribution to a preservation project. We hope that they will take with them an increased excitement about the historic built environment as well as specialized skills that can be applied to other projects", said Ms. Broeker.

The Obadiah La Tourette Grist & Saw Mill, built in 1751, is located on the South Branch of the Raritan River, in Morris County. It originally ground grist into flour, powered by two water wheels. The mill was renovated and converted to turbine power in the 1870's by then-owner Obadiah La Tourette, and the milling operation continued until WW II. Unoccupied since 1967, the mill and eleven acres of riverfront property were purchased in 1991 by the Washington Township Land Trust. At that time the oldest section of the mill was in a state of collapse and had been condemned. The Washington Township Land Trust is currently restoring the mill with the help of volunteers, donations, and grants. The project received grants of $97,303 of and $75,240 from the New Jersey Historic Trust in 1996 and 1997, respectively.

Workshop participants will be able to choose one of two skill tracks during the week-long workshop. Those with an interest in repointing stone will learn the techniques involved in mixing historically appropriate mortar and applying mortar to joints to match the historical technique. Participants preferring to learn about interior woodwork preservation will receive instruction in, and work with, wood joinery and repair of mortise and tenon flooring and walls. Walter Hollien, a preservation architect, will be leading the work sessions.

The workshop is scheduled for July 21-27, 2002. Pre-registration is required. The cost of attending the workshop is $925, which includes lodging at a historic bed & breakfast, most meals, insurance and workshop materials. For those not requiring lodging, the fee is $350, and members of the Washington Township Land Trust may register for $150, which covers lunches, insurance and workshop materials. Registration information can be obtained from the HCN web site at www.heritageconservation.net/workshops.htm, or from the HCN office by calling +1 303 444 0128.