​

2025 Annual Appeal

​

From the desk of President Francis B. Jacobs, II: 

Dear Family and Friends,

​

     Your Board, new staff and I have been very busy this past year doing as much as we have been able to
address, financials considered.
The property continues to look warm and receptive. Our lawn maintenance service does an exceptional job
in making the lawn and walkways appear clean and attractive. The garden, thanks to a team organized by Barbie
Clough, underwent a total transformation that is positioned to look ever welcoming next year.
We have hired two new part time employees to serve as Executive Director and Secretary providing
overlapping support. They are Elise Brady and Aaron Peplowski. They are replacing the ever missed Magdalena
Stuehrmann who had to step down for her full time employment position demands. Fortunately, we will retain her
support going forward as a member of the Board. As for the new hires, personally, I am excited with the skills
with which they bring to us as they immediately hit the ground running. I encourage you to observe their efforts in the months ahead.
I now wish to get to the heart of the writing to you at this time. With the Nation celebrating its 250th
anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026 and the celebration of the 250th anniversary
of the Battle of the Brandywine in 2027, we want the property and the 1704 House in a position to receive visitors.
Heretofore, I had hoped to fund the establishment of a new Visitor’s Center. Unfortunately, the timing for its
completion appears unrealistic with an anticipated cost exceeding $1 million. That which is more realistic and
important is refurbishing a useful barn. The accompanying photos reflect a structure in dire need of repair. The
windows and doors have suffered significant deterioration over the hundred plus years of its existence. The roof
and interior infrastructure are in excellent shape. Through the efforts of Brad Roeder, an architect knowledgeable
in historic preservation, we are retaining the services of Precise Builders, LLC, an Amish firm familiar with barn
construction. Their anticipated costs approach $120,000 a figure much more reasonable to address than the
previous construction initiative.
I am appealing to you to help us realize the sum to restore the barn. Please consider a generous gift to help
keep this historic gem attractive in the eyes of our family, friends and expected visitors. I thank you for taking time
to read this letter and consider a suitable donation.
I conclude in wishing you a happy and healthy holiday season!

Respectfully,

Francis Brinton Jacobs II
President​​​