EPIP Profile: Diefendorf Hall

Project Name: Diefendorf Hall Restoration, Fort Plain
Borrower: Friends of Fort Plain, Inc.
Loan Date: 2019
Project Description: Diefendorf Hall was constructed by John Diefendorf circa 1860 and has played an important role in the development of Fort Plain. The building was a center for the community and hosted speeches by such notables as Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Diefendorf Hall is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and owned by the Village of Fort Plain. The Friends of Fort Plain, Inc. have a long term lease on the property and have been working on the building since 2008. They are particularly focused on addressing damage caused by a catastrophic flood of the Otsquago Creek that took place in 2013 damaging the Hall and over 70 homes in the Village. This EPIP loan will be used to fund the rebuilding of foundation walls, replacement of first floor flooring, mold mitigation, removal of flood debris, replacement of HVAC and electrical equipment as well as facade work. The Friends goal is to create a Cultural Heritage Center for the region that will particularly cater to recreational users of the Empire State Trail.
Use of Funds: Construction
Project Status: Underway