What started as a “can we replace the narrow sill stones?” ask, turned into a much bigger job as the loose rubble foundation of the historic Antrim Grange hall is undergoing repairs and restoration. Mason and dry-stone waller, Andras Lazer, is leading the project, which includes building a large retaining wall behind the building and rebuilding the stone foundation.

Come see the work in progress, learn what it has taken to get this far, and hear what remains to be done. Much of the 100’ retaining wall is completed while the foundation work just getting going. When completed, the double-sided wall, approximately 5’ wide at the base and comprised of nearly 200 ton of stone donated by local residents, will rise 3’ above the earth to form a parapet for the adjoining property and will be topped with 15 tons of granite donated by Alfred Dedham of Ryegate, VT. Much of the fabricated material such as corners and through stones were created by breaking down large local boulders using feathers and wedges, and hand tools. A portion of the foundation has been completed and material for new sill stones is on site awaiting shaping.

The foundation and retaining wall will serve this building well for centuries to come, and will serve as an enduring statement of the power of community and the ability of local tradespeople to save a historic building in a way that honors the methods and ethos of the town founders. Come see this ambitious historic project in progress!

Experience the Industry! Landscape After Hours (LAH) are free events that provide opportunities for landscape professionals to get together in a casual atmosphere while getting out and seeing interesting and innovative projects, sites, and services in NH’s green industry. Join us on the third Wednesday evening of each month, May – September, 5:30 – 7pm.

There is no fee to attend LAH, but we do ask that you RSVP so we know how many people to expect.
RSVP here for one or multiple LAH events.

LAH events will be held rain or shine. Dress for the weather and terrain.

Contact Amy Papineau with any questions education@nhlaonline.org or 603-560-6576.
Co-hosted by NHLA and UNH Extension, in partnership with The Stone Trust