While construction is taking place, Körner’s Folly will remain open for tours during regular hours (Thursdays – Sundays). Visit us this summer to learn more about our future restoration plans and current roof restoration projects.
The Körner’s Folly Foundation has begun the final phase of exterior restoration, which involves replacing Körner’s Folly’s red tin roof with shingles. This milestone marks the largest restoration project in the history of Körner’s Folly. The red tin was installed in the mid-1950s to replace the home’s original chestnut shingle roof, and now the Foundation has raised enough money through Operation Restoration to replace the tin with eco-friendly and historically appropriate synthetic chestnut shingles.
The Foundation launched Operation Restoration in 2012 as a campaign to fund exterior restoration, which is the first step in bringing back the house’s original Victorian splendor. Water damage from a leaking roof and cracks from a shifting foundation have prevented any large-scale restoration projects. With a new roof and stable foundation, moving forward really means moving Körner’s Folly backward to its 1880s magnificence.
Bringing Körner’s Folly back, however, is expensive and fundraising was an enormous undertaking. The financial goal for Operation Restoration was $500,000, and generous community supporters exceeded this through their contributions.
“The restoration project wouldn’t be possible without support from the community,” Executive Director Dale Pennington said. “The Foundation’s mission is to keep Körner’s Folly open for the education and enjoyment of the public, and restoration is essential in making this possible.”
Looking forward, the Foundation plans to begin interior restoration in late summer. With a new water-tight roof, the Foundation will begin restoring the 22 rooms inside Körner’s Folly. The Rose Room is already empty with drop cloths on the floor, awaiting completion of roof restoration this summer.
While construction is taking place, Körner’s Folly will remain open for tours during regular hours. Visit us this summer to learn more about our future restoration plans and current roof restoration projects.