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Cady Copp
restoration
EAST PUTNAM --- Phase II of the restoration of Putnam’s oldest and most historic house, the Cady Copp Cottage, is being launched this week, according to Operations Manager Fred Hedenberg.
Phase II is for some window work and the esthetic aspects of the building interior. Phase I was completed this past January and some exterior work was attended to. Hedenberg said, “The building was in terrible shape when Phase I was started and we found a lot more that needed to be restored to put it in sound condition. The first phase was really a miracle when you consider all new sills, corner posts, basement columns and joists. Also the roof need rebuilding from square one,” he added.
Aspinock of Putnam Historical Society President Bill Pearsall and association secretary and wife Terri, are chairing this effort. “I can’t think of anyone more interested in this project than Bill and Terri,” said Hedenberg. Currently letters are being processed and will be mailed to Aspinock members and residents. A special solicitation will follow with business and industry solicitations including civic groups.
Previous restoration funding was supplied by the state of Connecticut, the 1772 Foundation, and donations from community supporters including business and financial institutions. Hedenberg estimates that these funds will have to be of a matching nature. All funds raised in this drive will be submitted as matching from grant sources.
“It is our hope,” the Pearsalls said, “that we can finish this and have the edifice available for visitations, school field trips, and historians.”
Hedenberg estimates that approximately $20,000 in donations, combined with $20,000 in matching fund will be needed for Phase II.
The Cady Copp Cottage was built in the mid 1700s and the four-room, gambrel-roofed structure is the oldest in Putnam.