This is a Tefft Family Association archived document, originally created January 1999 to answer questions about the purchase of the Tefft Homestead. Click here for an update on the Tefft Homestead, now the Tefft Historical Park.

F A Q s

Updated April 4, 2000

Purchase and Preservation of the Tefft Homestead

1. Why should the Tefft Homestead property be acquired and preserved?

Substantial remains of the Tefft's ancestral home in America settled in the mid-1600s exist in South Kingstown, Rhode Island. The 17th and 18th century house foundations, cemeteries, stone walls, stone-lined well and other features that comprise the Tefft homestead are located on property that until very recently had been slated for new housing development. Following a preliminary archaeological study of the site, the State of Rhode Island made it their "strong recommendation" that "the land be acquired and preserved and that it serve as an educational and historical park for the public." In addition their letter to the Town of South Kingstown, dated Oct. 8, 1999, stated: "Taken together, these cultural resources constitute an extremely important archaeological and historical landscape that is eligible for listing on the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

2. What are the current causes for concern about the property?

Until very recently, the property was at risk from development. Blueberry Hill, a proposed 22-home development, has been scaled back  after a year-long battle over environmental impact concerns including preserving the historic features at the site. Although surrounded by new housing (primarily Tefft Hill) and used by local residents for bike trails and walking paths, the 30-acres that remain to be purchased has been relatively isolated from public use. In March, the owner of the property entered into an option purchase agreement for the remaining 30 acres. The price is set at $260,000 and the option must be exercised within the year. Initally, the owner had indicated the selling price would be upwards of $350,000. On December 6, 1999, Stage 1 development of Blueberry Hill was approved and construction is proceding on seven homes. However, the State of Rhode Island has recommended that Stage 2 land be purchased and preserved for a national or state historic park. All the archeaological features that we have been concerned about saving are located on Stage 2 land.

3. What is being done to raise the $260,000?

Purchase of the property will involve a 50/50 mix of public and private funds. As Tefft descendants, we understand the need to demonstrate our concern and commitment to preserving our family heritage and are aware of the urgency to take action. Others in the private sector, including South Kingstown homeowners whose property abuts the new development, have begun efforts to raise money and contribute to a purchase. The Archaeological Conservancy, which has indicated interest in the site, may also be able to assist in purchasing and managing the land. Contact has been made with the National Trust for Historic Preservation to determine their interest and ability to help with the purchase. The South Kingstown Land Trust (SKLT), a private, non-profit organization dedicated to preserving green space in the area, is actively pursuing grants and other funding avenues for purchase and preservation of  Tefft Homestead land. The process can be moved forward through our pledges to the SKLT.

4. Who is the South Kingstown Land Trust?

In pursuing a purchase of the Tefft Homestead, the SKLT is acting on behalf of Tefft family members, area homeowners, and others in South Kingstown who want to see the homestead preserved. The SKLT has been in existence since 1983 and now protects over 1,000 acres in South Kingstown.

5. Is a pledge to the Land Trust tax deductible? Is it refundable if a purchase falls through?

Your pledge is fully-tax deductible (once the purchase is made). If the purchase falls through, pledges are refundable within 30-60 days. Further tax advantages can be realized by those who pledge appreciated stock as capital gains taxes will be avoided in your donation. Pledges will be called in when it looks like the project really will proceed. Click here to view a copy of the pledge form.

6. Who will hold title to the Tefft Homestead property once its purchased?

The South Kingstown Land Trust will initially hold title to the property. The Tefft family can purchase it if funds are available, however, this would not be advisable until such time as there is a secure way to manage the property including liability insurance.

7. How will the Homestead be managed?

The South Kingstown Land Trust would rely on the Biscuit City Association or family members to monitor the property and act as land stewards for the Land Trust. SKLT has volunteer land stewards to monitor all its properties and to help with trail development and other improvement and maintenance projects. The organization has expertise in seeking grant funding for preservation and development of such lands and putting together partnerships to fund acquisitions of property. Always, SKLT looks to the local community to take the lead in determing the appropriate use of the land.

Would you like to become a Tefft Family Association member? Click here to view information about the TFA and complete a membership enrollment form.

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Contact: Darlene Tefft Cobb at dcobb@antelecom.net