Community Corner
Redding Historical Society Launches Campaign To Restore Zalmon Read Barn
Redding Historical Society seeks donations to restore the Zalmon Read Barn and create a permanent agrarian tool museum.
REDDING, CT — The Redding Historical Society has launched a fundraising effort to restore one of the town’s oldest landmarks, the Zalmon Read Barn at Lonetown Farm.
The “barn raising” campaign aims to complete the exterior restoration of the 18th-century structure, which was built around 1760 by Zalmon Read, grandson of town founder John Read. Once work is finished, the society plans to establish a permanent tool exhibit highlighting Redding’s agrarian past.
The future Zalmon Read Barn & Tool Museum would serve as an educational resource for students and visitors, as well as a cultural hub for community events. The barn already provides a backdrop for the society’s annual July celebration featuring music and fireworks.
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Corporate Donation Incentives
Businesses have a limited-time opportunity to receive a 60 percent state tax credit on contributions made in 2025 through the Connecticut Neighborhood Assistance Act program. To qualify, companies must complete an online form with the state Department of Revenue Services between Sept. 15 and Oct. 1. Eligible donations may be applied to the barn campaign, up to $24,000 for exterior restoration.
Preservation Efforts
The Zalmon Read Barn is considered the most historically significant surviving structure tied to the Read family. It represents the classic English barn style of the Revolutionary War era. Zalmon Read himself served as a captain in the war, leading local volunteers into battle.
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The Redding Historical Society first moved the barn from its original location on the Redding Country Club property to Lonetown Farm in 1980. In 2023, the group began a comprehensive plan for restoration and the museum project. Partial restoration was completed in 2024 with help from federal funds and community donations.
About The Society
The all-volunteer nonprofit maintains several historic properties in town, including the Lonetown Farm Museum, the Umpawaug Schoolhouse, and the Zalmon Read Barn. The society was recently recognized in Historic Homes Magazine for its preservation work.
Donations
The society is encouraging both individual and business contributions. Donations may be sent to:
Redding Historical Society
P.O. Box 1023
Redding, CT 06875
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