Thursday, October 1, 2026
A whimsical piece of European history nestled in Bailey Arboretum has been brought back to life after a major restoration, part of wider efforts to continue to make the historic space more welcoming to the community.
A miniature German castle, originally constructed in 1934 by German immigrant Joseph Schuhmacher for his daughter Alma, has long been a hidden treasure on the arboretum’s 42-acre grounds. For decades, time, weather and overzealous young climbers had reduced the structure to a crumbling shadow of its former self.
“So this castle was in huge disrepair as long as I’ve been involved here,” said Jan Hagner, a board member of Friends of Nassau County Bailey Arboretum. “And the granddaughter of the family that donated to the arboretum paid to have it restored last year. Now it reminds you of a fairy tale, which it was originally intended to.”
The $25,000 restoration, funded by Schuhmacher’s granddaughter Marlene Rehkamp O’Brien, was completed in fall 2024. The work, which included structural repairs using original materials like mica-laced schist and slate, was performed over a month by a restoration expert. Only one turret from the original structure could be salvaged.
Unfortunately, recent acts of vandalism have once again damaged the castle. Repairs are expected to cost approximately $3,000, and the board members encourage visitors to make sure their children do not climb on or touch the structure.
Despite the setback, the Friends of Bailey remain focused on continuing the arboretum’s transformation into a more family-friendly destination.
“Our intention is to clear all this out and have little trees and bushes around it,” board member Susan Giordano said.
The castle is located near Bailey’s Children’s Habitat, a natural play area established in 2009. It has become a focal point for visiting families.
“It connects with our children’s habitat,” Hagner said. “It’s just one more thing for families to come. It’s a circle of love.”
Future plans include installing a teepee and musical instruments to enhance the play area and linking it with Bailey’s newly restored sensory garden.
“We always try and, like, as we review our finances, put some money aside to do some upgrading here,” Hagner said.
The arboretum will also host the Grenville Baker Boys & Girls Club’s annual Old Fashioned Clam Bake on Aug. 23. To support the arboretum’s work and help with ongoing maintenance and improvements, donations can be made at BaileyArboretum.org.
