Raise the Roof for the Wagner House
Dear Supporters of Lakewold,
I am continually moved by the generosity of our community. Lakewold thrives because so many of you care about this remarkable place, and I want to begin by saying thank you.
You have already had a real impact this year. Thanks to your generosity, Lakewold now has a new riding lawnmower. It has already made a visible difference, helping our staff keep the lawns healthy and the gardens looking their best. The Carriage House, once in decline, is undergoing thoughtful restoration. Its new cedar shake roof and structural repair preserve the building’s historic character and prepare it to welcome visitors again as a nursery and gift shop. The Summer Garden Gala was a tremendous success and keeps our daily operations strong.
Now we face a new challenge. The roof of the Wagner House, the heart of the estate, has reached the end of its life. Shakes are missing or damaged, and signs of wear are evident. Now is the moment to act—before further damage is done. The cost of a new cedar shake roof is $100,000. Thanks to early donors, we already have $42,000 committed, leaving $58,000 still to raise.
The Wagner House is where Lakewold comes alive. Guests first step inside to be welcomed before wandering into the gardens. Neighbors gather here for music, art, and conversation. Families have celebrated milestones under its roof, and children have discovered the magic of the garden through its doors. For many, it is the front door to Lakewold and the place where memories begin.
The Wagner House can only serve its purpose if the structure is well-maintained. A new roof is a practical step that ensures the House continues to welcome the community for years to come. Just as importantly, it is an investment in the future. The children who discover Lakewold today will be the stewards, artists, and dreamers of tomorrow. Your gift now will ensure that this home and the gardens it anchors remain a place of inspiration, learning, and joy for the next generation.
I invite you to join us in securing the Wagner House. Your gift today will go directly to the roof project. Together we can ensure that this home and the gardens it anchors remain a place of beauty, gathering, and discovery for many years to come.
With sincere gratitude,
Justin Henderson
Executive Director, Lakewold Gardens