SLCS COMPLETES DEMOLITION OF HISTORIC FARMHOUSE
Historic Michael
Farmhouse is Gone
In August 2021,The Board of Directors of The Squam Lakes Conservation Society voted unanimously in August 2021 to demolish the Historic Michael Farmhouse.
Yet, per SLCS’s Website: It is the SLCS’s wish “to preserve the unique character of the (Squam) watershed by recognizing and protecting historic places: the iconic barns, farms, camps and landscape features that define the Squam landscape. (The) goal of protecting the cultural heritage of the watershed was a natural complement to SLCS’s ongoing efforts to conserve land and water quality.”
The Michael Farmhouse dates to the 1830-1850s and contributes significantly to the Squam Lakes Watershed Historic District and to the historic fabric of Center Sandwich NH.
This quintessential and iconic Landmark was demolished by THE SQUAM LAKES CONSERVATION SOCIETY despite 100% financial offers to preserve the property.
GONE FOREVER!
Background
The Squam Lakes Conservation Society acquired the property from the Michael Family in 2020. Shortly after closing on the Michael property, the SLCS announced a Request for Proposals [RFP] to demolish the farmhouse and the creation of a task force to decide how best to develop and manage the land. The task force and Stewardship Committee incorrectly concluded that the Michael Farmhouse is not worth saving [“beyond Repair”] and has recommended complete demolition of everything but the cellar hole. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved the demolition and then SLCS submitted a demolition permit in August 2021 to the Town of Sandwich.