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About Us

The Friends of Lindewald

Who We Are

The Friends of Lindenwald is a nonprofit organization founded on January 17, 1984, dedicated to preserving and promoting the enduring legacy of President Martin Van Buren, both as a visionary and a working farmer. Our mission is to foster public appreciation for Lindenwald, Van Buren’s historic home, while supporting the preservation of its structure, landscapes, and cultural heritage.

We work in close partnership with the National Park Service to enhance the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site through:

  • Hosting and supporting special events and educational programs at Lindenwald
  • Providing input on park planning, interpretation, and conservation initiatives
  • Raising funds for restoration, preservation, and public engagement efforts
  • Offering exclusive opportunities for members, including lectures, tours, and community gatherings

Our commitment extends beyond Lindenwald to the Martin Van Buren Nature Trails, which we manage and promote as a year-round destination for recreation, learning, and reflection. These trails provide a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty that once inspired the eighth president.

We are especially dedicated to inspiring future generations. Each year, we host Environmental Awareness Days at the Martin Van Buren Nature Trails, introducing area youth to the importance of conservation, ecology, and historic landscapes. Additionally, we support academic achievement through the Dana and Marion Berntson Martin Van Buren History Scholarship, awarded to students who demonstrate excellence in the study of history.

As advocates for historic preservation and land conservation, we engage at the local, state, and national levels to protect the legacy of Martin Van Buren and the landscapes that shaped his life.

Help us continue this important work. Become a member today or make a donation to support our programs, preservation efforts, and educational initiatives. Together, we can protect Lindenwald’s legacy for generations to come.

Board of Directors

The Friends of Lindenwald Board of Directors provides strategic direction and fiduciary oversight for the organization, helping ensure the long-term preservation and interpretation of Lindenwald, home of President Martin Van Buren.

Officers

  • Jane Miller, President
  • Mark Leinung, Vice President
  • Jerome Callahan, Treasurer
  • Ann Scharoun, Secretary

Advisory Trustee

  • Megan O’Malley, Site Manager

Trustees

  • Gregg Berninger
  • Karrie Allen Buratto
  • Janice Fingar
  • ADAM MILLER
  • Ruth Moore
  • Sally Naramore
  • David Sullivan
  • Kari Van Buren

Dana and Marion Berntson Martin Van Buren History Scholarship

The Friends of Lindenwald proudly award the Dana and Marion Berntson Martin Van Buren History Scholarship each year to students who demonstrate excellence in the study of history. The scholarship honors the legacy of Dana and Marion Berntson, devoted supporters of historical preservation and education, while encouraging the next generation of scholars to deepen their understanding of America’s past.

Through this scholarship, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting academic achievement and fostering a passion for history among students in our community. By investing in their growth and curiosity, we help ensure that the lessons, challenges, and achievements of earlier generations continue to inspire thoughtful and engaged citizens today.

We extend our congratulations to this year’s scholarship recipients and look forward to seeing the meaningful contributions they will make in historical study and beyond.

Help us continue this important work. Your membership and donations support educational programs, scholarships, and the maintenance and preservation of the Martin Van Buren Trails and historic landscape.

Through the Years

Since the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site was established in 1974, the Friends of Lindenwald have partnered with the National Park Service and the community to preserve and celebrate Van Buren's legacy. From restoration efforts and bicentennial events to the creation of the Nature Trails and new community programs, this timeline showcases decades of dedication to history, education, and stewardship at Lindenwald.
  • 1974

    The Lindenwald National Historic Site was established, later renamed the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site.

  • Spring 1977

    Lindenwald was described as a deteriorating brick mansion with a muddy driveway and overgrown grounds. Efforts soon began to restore the site.

  • 1977 - 1982

    The National Park Service (NPS), along with outside consultants and contractors, worked on the restoration of Lindenwald and the organization of its collections. The goal was a full restoration in time for the bicentennial of Martin Van Buren’s birth in 1982.

  • October - December 1982

    A “Bicentennial Preview” was held to celebrate Van Buren’s 200th birthday. Events included:

    • A parade and concerts
    • A walking tour of Kinderhook, a Van Buren - themed ball, and a community picnic
    • On October 1, the NPS opened part of the first floor, displaying Van Buren’s furniture and possessions as they appeared during his residency
    • The ball was attended by 400 guests in period attire, and the picnic drew 1,500 visitors
  • 1981 - 1982

    Out of the MVB Bicentennial Committee, the Friends of Lindenwald was formed. The founding members included; Albert Callan, Chairman; Burns Barford, Vice Chairman; Bob Thomas, Treasurer; Jane Mills, Secretary; Ruth Piwonka, Director.

  • 1999

    25th Anniversary of the Martin Van Buren National Historic Site

  • 2007

    The Friends of Lindenwald raised funds to donate a life-size statue of Martin Van Buren, now located next to the bandstand on the Kinderhook Village Green. The statue was dedicated on July 14, 2007.

  • 2013

    The Friends of Lindenwald acquired 78 acres of land just 200 yards north of Lindenwald. This land was developed into the Martin Van Buren Nature Trails, featuring well-marked paths through forests of white pine, maple, elm, and birch.

  • 2024 - 2025

    Orchard Restoration

  • 2024

    1st annual Naturalization Ceremony held on the grounds of Martin Van Buren NHS.

  • 2024

    1st annual Original Kinderhook Black Family Reunion at Lindenwald with African American Archive of Columbia County

  • 2025

    Pollinator Beds in the Orchard in cooperation with Farmscape Ecology Program

  • Present Day

    The Friends of Lindenwald continue their mission of preserving Martin Van Buren’s legacy, supporting the National Historic Site, and maintaining the MVB Nature Trails as a space for education, recreation, and conservation.