Restoring the Carriage Barn at The Rocks

On February 13, 2019, a fire at The Rocks destroyed two historic buildings that we used for office space, programming, a gift shop, and farm operations. In the wake of this devastating loss, the Forest Society had an opportunity to rethink the vision for this iconic North Country destination.

In 2020, we launched the Forest Society North at The Rocks campaign to build on a tradition of conservation, education, and innovation at the property in Bethlehem. 

The plans for the campus included a new hillside amphitheater, made from the granite foundation stones of former buildings on the site, as well as updates to the facilities that support our working Christmas tree farm. The historic Carriage Barn would be transformed into an energy-efficient facility with public program space and staff offices. The facility would offer ample space for staff to deliver adult and youth educational programming on forestry, conservation, natural history, maple sugaring, and the Christmas tree operation. It would also serve as a center where visitors can learn about the Rocks’ history and find out more about recreational activities both on-site and in the region.

As part of our Forest Society North initiative, we planned to locate more of our staff in the northern part of the state, based at The Rocks.  This includes land conservation, easement stewardship, land management and Christmas tree farm staff, along with new program and education positions. This will allow us to take on more conservation work in the north, from the north, such as the 3,700-acre Mahoosuc Highlands property in Shelburne.

The vision was completed in June 2024!

The restored Carriage Barn in spring.
The Carriage Barn was completed in June 2024.
The new amphitheater at The Rocks.
The amphitheater was made from the granite foundation stones of former buildings on the site.

 

Fire & Restoration Project Timeline

 

Fire & Recovery

 

Campaign & Construction

2020

2021

2022

2023

2024