Eagle Scout Project adds Windmill to Historic Tilly Foster Farm

From the Putnam County Executive

SOUTHEAST, NY – Michael O’Brien of Brewster, NY, completed his Eagle Scout project in September to earn the Boy Scouts of America’s highest rank of the same name. O’Brien, along with a team of supporters and volunteers, constructed a windmill at the newly renovated Tilly Foster Farm on Route 312 in the Town of Southeast.

“I took on the windmill project at the suggestion of County Executive MaryEllen Odell,” said O’Brien. “My goal was to add to the scenic beauty and character of this historic farm, as well as providing a utilitarian purpose, whereby the newly constructed windmill might serve as an exhibit to demonstrate wind power as an alternative energy source.”

“Michael O’Brien is a talented and resourceful young man,” said Odell. “I am grateful and impressed with the outcome of this project. We are so proud of the work that has gone into renovating Tilly Foster over the past year. The addition of this beautiful windmill, at the hands of Michael and his dedicated team of community volunteers, further enhances the history of this magnificent property.”

O’Brien raised funds for the project by hosting a Spaghetti Dinner at the Knights of Columbus. The organization donated the space and resources in support of the initiative. Bruce Kraemer, a structural engineer who owns Kraemer Building Corp., offered professional advice on how to properly proceed with the windmill's construction, and Joe Cianciulli of A&J Cianciulli Crane Company, donated his services to erect the newly constructed windmill. Special thanks also goes to Peter Allegretta, former Chairman for the P.C. Joint Veterans Council for his assistance in operating the Crane.

Tilly Foster offers a wide array of attractions, activities, and entertainment, including visits with friendly farm animals, a hiking trail, community gardening, shopping at weekend farmers’ market, culinary arts education, and regularly scheduled entertainment events – and of course, the best farm-to-table dining in the Hudson Valley.

For more information about Tilly Foster Farm and Tilly’s Table calendar of events, please visit: www.putnamtillyfoster.com.

Photo Caption: Front row left to right: Mike O’Brien, Sr., County Executive MaryEllen Odell, Eagle Scout Mike O’Brien, Jr., and Lou Albano. Back row: Volunteers, Mike Dellisola and Kevin Barry./ Putnam County Executive's Office

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