Restoration of Swede Run Barn to Begin Soon

Following a , restoration of the Swede Run barn could begin as early as a couple weeks from now.

Julie Maravich, a project organizer and member of the Historical Society, said nearly $16,000 in donations have been received to date—exceeding the original goal set by the project's founders and giving them enough to get started soon.

Maravich said they plan to hold another fundraiser. She anticipates work will begin in the next couple weeks. 

A soon-to-be bride contacted the project organizers and expressed interest in having wedding photos taken outside the historic structure, so Maravich said they're trying to speed the project along so the exterior improvements can be done in time for the April 21 wedding.

The improvements include the replacement of the existing roof, repairs to holes and cracks in the stone walls, new doors, and landscaping around the site, as well as the overall reinforcement of the structure.

A host of professionals and contractors have offered their services pro bono to the project. Architect Kimberly Bunn (of Bunn Architecture) and engineer Tom Kulp (of PMH Associates) are handling the project specs. Stonemason George Bobb will repair the walls and contractors and Dave Schill and Paul Canton (of ) will take care of some of the carpentry work.  will replace the roof. The township has also agreed to waive its permit fees.

The money raised through donations will pay for materials and other ancillary costs.

The historical society is still accepting donations. Donations by check should be made out to with “barn restoration” on the memo line. Donations should be mailed to Julie Maravich, 660 Chester Ave., Moorestown, NJ 08057.