Farmhouse turns into center for education
During the past several weeks, volunteers of all ages have been working quietly and diligently to transform the 1923 Bunning Farm House at 211 Church Road into the Medford Historical Society Center for Education.
In June, the Medford Historical Society entered into a use agreement with the state Division of Environmental Protection for the educational use of the former Dr. James Still medical office, at 209 Church Road and the Bunning Farm at 211 Church Road. The focus of the MHS Center for Education will be on sharing and preserving the stories of those individuals who are part of Medford Township’s history, from its more well-known residents, such as Dr. James Still, to the farmers, shopkeepers, mill operators, glass makers, teachers and artisans of all types who shaped the township’s history.
The Center for Education will open its doors this fall with a full schedule of programs for students of all ages.
Likewise, the creation of the Center for Education is told in the stories of the volunteers: two Eagle Scout candidates, Matt Williamson and Josh Walton, who are completing their projects at the farmhouse, the homers, retired men known for their work at Cedar Wildlife Refuge and Medford Works, Fellowship Alliance Chapel paint volunteers, Lenape Honor Society students, Historical Society volunteers, Ray Morgan, Ryan Artman and Bill Stauts, Woman’s Club members and so many others.
Donations of funds and goods to support the work have come in from ShopRite of Medford, Medford Leas, who provided cabinets and appliances gladly repurposed in the center, countertops from Intelco, and curtains by Marnie Lyerly.
Members of the Pineland Garden Club will replant wild irises found on the property along the front of the fence.
If you would like to join this effort through a much-needed donation of time, talent or goods, please contact MHS at mhsedcenter@gmail.com or janetcarlsong@comcast.net.