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DeBar Lodge - Duane, New York
A
newly created “Duane Parks Commission”, comprised of an all volunteer group from
Duane and other north country residents interested in preserving historic sites
located in the Town of Duane, is seeking help to preserve the
DeBar Lodge. Duane is located in the Northern Adirondacks, Franklin Co. and is
totally within the Adirondack Park.
Nestled between the
mountains on the northern shore of the pristine glacial pond known as DeBar
Pond, it is also the location of the historic Schroder Castle(s) and which in the late
1800’s was the largest hop plantation in the world. Additionally the lodge
itself also has historic significance for the town. In 1939, after demolition of
the castle, the 18-room Adirondack style lodge was constructed using logs on the
same site. It architecturally appears consistent with the other “Adirondack
Great Camps” of the Adirondacks. Almost 25 years ago 1300 acres including the
lodge, out buildings and horse barns were sold to New York State. It included a
25 year use lease, reserving 25 acres of land and the buildings, which is up on
August 4, 2004. 1n 1998 the newspapers reported that the DEC stated they had no
use for the buildings and they would be burned after August 4th.
Later articles reported the DEC would demolish them, and no other decision has
been issued since. Demolition of this Adirondack history would be an atrocity.
The primary goal is the
preservation of the buildings and the historic site. The second goal is to
acquire the use of, or the stewardship of, the buildings and site for public
enjoyment and to capitalize upon the use as a benefit for the town and as a
catalyst for the development of tourism, i.e. possibly horseback riding,
tourist accommodation, hiking, riding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, etc.
And later on which would also include education, and employment. Conceivably other tourism
related enterprises could develop within the town. Duane is 65% State owned
lands, has no industry and only four businesses. Tourism is its’ only hope for
salvation.
The volunteers are
desperately looking for individuals, business or corporations that would provide
sponsorship, and who could assist in these preservation efforts with product and
or financial assistance. Professional, legal, and operational costs are being
incurred. Upon acquisition minor renovations will be necessary to meet NYS
codes, and the roof needs new shingles, (before next winter), and heat
maintained.
If you could possibly help - please
contact us:
Commission Chair, Gil
Paddock,
gil@debarlodge.org ; 123 Deer River Drive, Malone, NY 12953
The committee is also
seeking historical artifacts and information on behalf of the Town of Duane
historian, Gloria Gori, 356 CO Rd 26, Malone, NY 12953
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