About the Project
Guilford's most iconic landmark, the Grass Island Shack, was in need of major repairs. The structural integrity became a concern and Town officials deemed the structure unsafe. The building was fenced off to stop public access. The fence sparked questions about the status of the shack, and Eagle Scout Candidate John Markowski came forward to raise funds and repair this iconic symbol of Guilford.
On September 1, 2015, John Markowski, a Life Scout from Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Troop 471, met with Guilford's First Selectman, Park and Recreation Director and Facilities Manager to discuss the possibilities of bringing the Grass Island Shack back to a safe and cosmetically appealing structure through the means of an Eagle Scout Project. The approval was given and followed by months of planning and fundraising.
Approxmently $28,000.00 was raised for the effort to "Save the Shack". Fundraising began in November 0f 2015 and was a huge success. Money remaining after the completion of the rebuild has been placed in a fund at the Guilford Foundation for future maintenance so that the Shack will not deteriorate again.
On September 1, 2015, John Markowski, a Life Scout from Boy Scouts of America (BSA) Troop 471, met with Guilford's First Selectman, Park and Recreation Director and Facilities Manager to discuss the possibilities of bringing the Grass Island Shack back to a safe and cosmetically appealing structure through the means of an Eagle Scout Project. The approval was given and followed by months of planning and fundraising.
Approxmently $28,000.00 was raised for the effort to "Save the Shack". Fundraising began in November 0f 2015 and was a huge success. Money remaining after the completion of the rebuild has been placed in a fund at the Guilford Foundation for future maintenance so that the Shack will not deteriorate again.
John and his team worked to restore, preserve and beautify the Grass Island Shack along with making the structure safe. The Grass Island Shack can now remain standing for future generations to enjoy. In addition to being Guilford's most iconic landmark, the Grass Island Shack is also the second most painted and photographed building on the East Coast!
Demolition began in September of 2016 which consisted of removing the Shack's roof and porch. This was completed with the help of hardworking and dedicated volunteers. After completing the demolition, professional contracts were able to straighten the red center section of the structure and rebuild the porch and roofs.
The rebuild officially began on November 7, 2o16 and the Grass Island Shack was reopened to the public on November 23, 2016.
Demolition began in September of 2016 which consisted of removing the Shack's roof and porch. This was completed with the help of hardworking and dedicated volunteers. After completing the demolition, professional contracts were able to straighten the red center section of the structure and rebuild the porch and roofs.
The rebuild officially began on November 7, 2o16 and the Grass Island Shack was reopened to the public on November 23, 2016.
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FUNDS RAISED
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VOLUNTEER HOURS
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VOLUNTEERS
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The Grass Island Shack now stands strong in the Guilford Harbor for all to view and enjoy. The structure has been brought up to current building codes without changing the overall look of the landmark.
Going forward, John is working to plan a small dedication ceremony for the Spring of 2017 which will recognize everyone who came together to make the project possible. In addition, a fund has been set up at the Guilford Foundation which will accept ongoing donations for future maintenance. This website will remain active to provide information on the 2016 rebuild and history of the Grass Island Shack.
Going forward, John is working to plan a small dedication ceremony for the Spring of 2017 which will recognize everyone who came together to make the project possible. In addition, a fund has been set up at the Guilford Foundation which will accept ongoing donations for future maintenance. This website will remain active to provide information on the 2016 rebuild and history of the Grass Island Shack.