The Manor needs a new Roof!
Field Manor is a historic 19th century homestead (1868) that features one of the oldest houses in Brevard County, built in 1880 on Merritt Island along the Indian River Lagoon. It’s located at 750 Field Manor Drive and still spans 45 acres, originally used for citrus farming.
The house needs substantial maintenance, the most pressing being the need to replace the roof (at an estimated cost of $146,000). The Florida Historical Commission recommended approval of the reroofing project, and the Florida Legislature and Governor approved the project for a matching grant of $73,000. Field Manor is undertaking this fundraising campaign for $73,000 (its share of the project cost).
Field Manor is owned and operated by the Field Manor Foundation, a corporation created by Alma ‘Clyde’ Field, the wife of a descendant of the original Fields, who moved to Brevard County in the late 1800’s. Clyde donated Field Manor, the house and surrounding land, to the Foundation. The Foundation is a not-for-profit Section 501(c)(3) organization. Field Manor is listed on the Federal Register of historical sites.
Today, the Foundation operates Field Manor as a cultural and educational site and museum to showcase how the settlers in the late 1800’s lived and worked the land as a citrus farm. The Manor includes items of historical and cultural interest, including many of the Field’s personal items from several generations. The site is open to the public and hosts visitors that include schools and other youth groups, with an average of 1,800 visitors annually.
The Field Manor house is historically important as it represents the cultural, social, and economic transformation that took place in the region. It was built during the rapid expansion of the Florida population as many settlers moved to the area to take advantage of fertile land, abundant wildlife, and favorable economic opportunities. The Manor is an example of I-House Frame Vernacular design, common for the period it was built. Its ornate detailing used local materials, such as heart of pine. It played an important part in the local community and served as a center of social and cultural activities. It is also an important part of the larger historical community which includes St. Luke’s Episcopal Church and Sams House, also on Merritt Island.
The Manor’s roof has deteriorated over time, causing water intrusion issues that threaten the structure's integrity and pose a risk to its interior artifacts. It is imperative to protect the house’s structure from the elements and prevent further water damage. Moisture infiltration can cause wood rot, mold growth, and other structural issues that compromise the safety of the building. This project will require repairing damaged structures before the new roof can be installed.
Please consider supporting the historic preservation efforts for Field Manor by donating to the roof replacement.