Greed led to destruction of Tredwell House

(letter to Rumson Mayor

John E. Ekdahl)

It was with immense sadness that I received the news of the June 15 fire that destroyed the childhood home I called Holly Farm, also known as the Tredwell House, the oldest building in Rumson. As grief takes it s course, my emotions have turned to anger and disbelief.

The planning and zoning boards of Rumson should be ashamed and embarrassed. Their approach to historic preservation is a disgrace. They had an opportunity to preserve a very precious piece of history, one the whole town could be proud of, embrace and cherish. Instead, they let it go up in smoke. Greed has driven the entire process, beginning with the town's response to the initial application for development submitted by Arthur and Leslie Parent back in 2000.

For Hollis Colquhoun, chairwoman of the Rumson Historic Preservation Commission, to actively talk about the tremendous historical value of this property and the need for the council to adopt stronger protection for historical sites after the fire is so terribly sad in hindsight. Too little, too late. Where was that interest in history and preservation June 14? So much time and energy by many preservationists went into trying to save this beautiful 300-year-old structure, with such a tragic end.

According to a resolution passed in early 2005, the Parents were required to protect the historical portions of the house from the elements, yet doors and windows were left open and glass broken. In the 16 months since the resolution was passed, no restoration had begun as mandated. Even the bridge over the stream was recently demolished, resulting in precious lost time for firefighters who could not easily access the building as the fire was raging.

The town averted its eyes from the project, and greed stepped in and landed the final blow. This is more than a simple case of gross negligence. There is not a doubt in my mind greed fueled the fire June 15. Where is the accountability? While it is clear the town was remiss in protecting the Tredwell House, I trust now the town will aggressively follow through with a thorough investigation.

Now that the 300-year-old obstacle that has fed the seven-year debate is no longer an issue, the Parents can proceed with their plans to subdivide the property. Move aside, history. Rumson needs a few more McMansions, complete with Jacuzzi, SubZero and a wine bar. The Parents can now file an insurance claim and finally recoup their investment while lining their pockets in pursuit of the American dream. And the town of Rumson can reap the tax benefits of another new development. How very sad.

Jennifer H. Sargent

Former resident of

the Tredwell House

Harwich, Mass.