North Fork Stewardship Center

The Center was established in 1999, thanks to the generous donation of a 3.8-acre preserve that is part of a 155-acre tract of protected farmland, woodland and wetlands known as Fort Neck, and was the site of the original, historic farmstead.

This tract includes the Fort Corchaug National Historic Landmark, site of a mid-17^th century fort built by members of the Corchaug tribe when English settlers began to move into the area.

The property includes a rare English-style post and beam barn, as well as other historic outbuildings. Restoration of the 19th century barn and continued maintenance of the preserve’s other buildings and groups are ongoing projects of the Trust.

North Fork Stewardship Historic Barn

Restoration of the rare 18^th century English-style post and beam barn at our North Fork Stewardship Center began in 2004. At that time, the Peconic Land Trust received a $25,000 grant from the New York State Barns Restoration and Preservation Program to provide for the barn’s immediate stabilization. Reconstruction of the stone foundation, sills, and floor system for the main barn are completed.

According to Robert Hefner, historic preservation consultant, this barn has great historic and architectural significance. The 3-bay English-style barn has a heavy timber frame, hewn of white oak, and is typical of those built on Eastern Long Island from the 17^th to early 20^th century. It is one of just a few that remain intact. Most have been torn down or converted into residences.