The Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation Board of Directors gave the Historical Society (RIHS) limited site control of Blackwell House in its meeting Thursday, paving the way for the organization to seek funding to halt the building’s deterioration.

The historic farmhouse, dating to Revolutionary times, has gone without serious maintenance for some years, a situation that regularly brought down the wrath of Judith Berdy, Historical Society president, on RIOC and its Board of Directors.  Late last year, Board member Leo Kayser challenged Berdy to come up with a plan for the house, saying, “We need someone we can convey it to.  Can we convey it to the Historical Society?”  Berdy promised to come up with a plan for just that.

Thursday’s action marks both the culmination of that process and the beginning of an RIHS effort to identify funding sources.  After the meeting, Berdy told The WIRE, “This is the beginning, hopefully, of a successful refurbishment of the house.  It will take some time to complete, but we will be able to repair and restore the House, plan for its future, and make it into a viable asset to the community.  This year we will be working on the plans for it, and on fund-raising.”

She added, “The Historical Society looks forward to the participation of all Islanders in our effort to bring Blackwell House back into the community.”

Asked about possible uses, she said, “We definitely need it for community space.  We’re going to be looking at the most viable way to use it.”

RIHS has about 100 members, and holds regular programs dealing with the Island’s history.  Berdy said those who might wish to join can call her at 688-4836.