The Kellogg Club Board is pleased to share an important new undertaking to help preserve our cherished Club for the years ahead: the Kellogg Club Legacy Initiative.
In 1968, a small group of devoted neighbors came together to purchase the Club’s property and spare the Colles Mansion from demolition. In doing so, they preserved far more than a building — they safeguarded an enduring piece of Morristown’s heritage. Nearly six decades later, we remain the beneficiaries of their foresight and care.
Today, we are privileged to serve as stewards of that legacy. With that privilege comes the responsibility to ensure that the Mansion and grounds are thoughtfully maintained and well positioned for membership in the decades to come.
To support this responsibility, the Board commissioned a comprehensive reserve study of our nearly 200‑year‑old property. As expected of any historic structure, the study confirms that continued, proactive investment is essential to preserving both the integrity and character of our Club. Addressing key exterior elements now is significantly more cost‑effective than deferring repairs and risking accelerated deterioration.
Immediate Priorities: Phase 1 Campaign — Keeping Us Covered
The 2025 reserve study confirms that the Mansion’s roof, chimneys, and exterior envelope have reached the end of their expected service life and represent our most pressing needs. Addressing these items proactively will help prevent water intrusion and far more costly emergency repairs.
To launch the Legacy Initiative, the Board is introducing the first phase campaign:
Keeping Us Covered: Roof & Exterior Campaign
Our immediate goal is to raise $200,000 by December 31, 2027 to fund:
- Replacement of the aging roof
- Stabilization of deteriorating chimneys
- Exterior painting and protection
This targeted investment protects the building envelope — and with it, the place where the Kellogg community gathers and traditions continue.
A Forward‑Looking Legacy Vision
While Phase 1 addresses the most urgent needs, the reserve study makes clear that thoughtful long‑range planning is essential. If every identified capital project were undertaken today, total costs would exceed $1.4 million over time. The purpose of this analysis is not to suggest immediate spending at that level, but to ensure the Club plans responsibly and avoids future emergency measures.
Accordingly, the Board has established a measured, multi‑year stewardship framework under the Legacy Initiative:
- Phase 1 Campaign: $200,000 by December 31, 2027
- Five‑year objective: Building toward $500,000 in capital readiness
- Long‑term aspiration: Working toward a $1 million capital legacy over time
Importantly, the $1 million figure is not an urgent deadline, but a prudent long‑term horizon consistent with responsible stewardship.
Our Shared Responsibility
Historic properties require ongoing care. By strengthening reserves and encouraging legacy giving, we aim to reduce the risk possibility of emergency assessments, help protect dues stability, and ensure that future Boards inherit strength rather than deferred maintenance costs.The Board will provide periodic updates so members can follow our progress with confidence.
A dedicated committee, led by Fundraising Governor Mary Capella, has been established to guide these efforts and explore additional fundraising opportunities. As appropriate, we will also incorporate thoughtful fundraising elements into Kellogg Club events while preserving the welcoming spirit members value.
Ways Members Can Participate
Throughout the Club’s history, its strength has rested on the quiet generosity and shared commitment of its members. The Legacy Initiative is designed to allow each member to participate in a way that feels both comfortable and meaningful.
Members may choose to make a one-time or recurring donation, consider multi-year pledges, contribute gradually over time, or remember the Club through estate or planned gifts. Members will also see opportunities to support the Legacy Initiative at Kellogg Club events throughout the year.
To make a contribution, please visit:
The Kellogg Club Legacy Initiative
Every level of participation—immediate or long-term—is sincerely appreciated and helps safeguard our historic home for future generations.
Member Information Session
To ensure transparency and provide an opportunity for dialogue, the Board will host a dedicated membership meeting to review the reserve study in greater detail and answer member questions. We encourage all members to attend and share their perspectives. Date TBD.
Those who came before us invested so we could enjoy these remarkable buildings today. We invite you to join us in protecting our historic home so the Kellogg Club remains strong and vibrant for generations to come.