The Persistence Foundation - About TPF
Photographs by Constance Kheel
Regrettably, the HRV has been identified as one of America’s most endangered historic places, as well as one of the most threatened agricultural regions in the country. Poorly planned development is jeopardizing this treasured valley, along with unsustainable losses in farm income.
Townships of the HRV in northern Rensselaer County and southern Washington County are particularly vulnerable, as their economies depend on agriculture. Declining milk prices have had a devastating effect on these communities. In addition, area land use regulations, for the most part, do not protect agriculture. In fact, they frequently impede farming by permitting the fragmentation of tillable land.
These communities, whose landscapes have been so charmingly depicted by the renowned folk artist, Grandma Moses, are in danger of losing their cultural heritage as well as their base of farmland.
TPF has undertaken several initiatives to address these problems by partnering with land trusts, government entities, local organizations and non-profits.
The TPF’s most significant project has been the restoration of three historic barns on the Nipmoose Farm in Buskirk. These unique barns showcase the beauty, craft and significance of early timber framed structures. After years of work repairing the barns, TPF is proud to offer them for viewing and as a venue for Events. To learn more about the Historic Barns of Nipmoose, as well as other historic structures, please visit Historic Buildings.
To learn more about the foundation’s work, please visit TPF’s Projects.
To support TPF’s mission, please visit Donations.