Original Barn From 1770 Is Renovated In Bergen County: Here's Why

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ – Over five months this year, County Parks Department performed a historically accurate restoration of the roof at the Wortendyke Barn in Park Ridge, a Dutch barn that dates to 1770 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The facility is one of nine Bergen County-owned historical sites and serves as a historic reminder of Bergen County’s agricultural history.

Today, the barn is used for educational and musical programming throughout the year, including the County’s popular Music at the Barn concert series.

The county performed a historically accurate restoration of the roof, said county officials, replacing the previous aging roof with cedar shingles common to the late 1700s. The Parks Department also constructed a new onsite ADA accessible restroom facility.

In total, the project cost $254,000 and utilized funds from the County’s Open Space Trust Fund and Parks Department capital project funding.

County Executive Jim Tedesco joined County Commissioner Vice Chairwoman Germaine Ortiz, County Commissioner Mary Amoroso, Park Ridge Mayor Keith Misciagna, and representatives from the County Parks Department late last month to celebrate the completion of the project, a site that pre-dates the founding of our nation.

“The Wortendyke Barn is a treasured piece of Bergen County's history,” said Tedesco. “This landmark, dating back to 1770, not only showcases our rich agricultural heritage but also provides a beautiful venue for cultural and educational events. As we prepare for the 13th Annual Bluegrass and Cider concert, I invite our community to join us in celebrating this renovation and enjoy the remarkable setting that the Wortendyke Barn offers.”

"Preserving the Wortendyke Barn is a testament to our dedication to safeguarding the heart of Bergen County's agrarian legacy. This living relic, a historical gem, stands as a bridge between our past and present, offering our residents a vibrant tapestry of culture and education," said Bergen County Commissioner Chair Pro Tempore Dr. Joan Voss. "We look forward to seeing our community experience the multitude of events and occasions hosted at the Wortendyke Barn where residents can come together and create cherished memories at this historic venue."

The barn was originally constructed using only local resources. It's one of nine Bergen County-owned historical sites. It was used continually as a barn into the 20th century and is one of only six pure Dutch barn types in Bergen County.

It's been a Pascack Valley landmark since its construction on 500 acres of land bought by the Wortendyke family in 1735, the county said.

Find out about upcoming county events, including music at the barn, here.