Some history
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In 1973, the Chappaqua Central School District (CCSD) purchased the 20.3-acre forested Buttonhook property for $125,000. But without a need for new schools, in 2010, they listed it for sale. In hopes of a $7MM payout, CCSD hired an engineering firm to subdivide the parcel into six lots for the construction of $2MM homes. In 2015, these plans were presented to New Castle Planning Board and after four years, in 2019 the preliminary plans were approved. |
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This project has cost more than $700k of school funds on expenses, and has been in the works for years because seven extensions have been required on the submission of the final engineering plans to the Department of Environmental Protection.
Because the Buttonhook Property is on a ridge that feeds two watershed systems, the DEP has grave concerns about the impact of construction on storm runoff . After years of no bids on the subdivided land, in 2020 the listing price dropped to 2.5MM, eventually accepting a below asking price of $2MM from a developer in August 2021. |
James Cachat, First Nations elder, watching
sunrise near the Sacred Stones on private land adjacent to Buttonhook Forest.
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This brings us to...
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2022
This is where the community comes in. The Friends of Buttonhook are offering an alternative to the continued loss of money and future destruction by purchasing the land and ensuring its protection. On June 30, 2022, the CCSD re-opened the Buttonhook property for sale. We, the Friends of Buttonhook, in partnership with the Brothertown Indian Nation (Eeyamquittoowauconnuck) made an offer to purchase this vital habitat and sacred place. On September 14, 2022, CCSD held a board meeting, at which we were told there'd be an update about Buttonhook. We rallied almost 100 people to attend, including many Indigenous supporters. We eagerly await a response to our offer to purchase this unique land. Until then, we continue to raise funds on our GoFundMe campaign! 2024 As of 8/25/2024, no subdivision plans have been able to overcome NYC DEP’s concerns. 2025 As of July 1, 2025, we are still awaiting for the end of litigation for our chance to purchase this sacred land. |
ECOSYSTEMThese 20.3 acres are part of a rare 100-acre “carbon sink” that's helping to fight climate change. If the subdivision is approved 676 trees would be clearcut and bedrock blasted, leading to habitat loss, soil erosion, noise, air, and water pollution. |
EDUCATIONAs parents, we want our schools to do more than just talk about Climate Change, Green Initiatives, Sustainability, and, Native American history. Saving this vibrant ecosystem offers a unique opportunity to stand in integrity, lead by example, and put into action practices they teach. |
HERITAGENative American sacred ceremonial stone landscapes have been identified and verified on two adjacent properties and in the Buttonhook forest. Protecting these rare structures will preserve this vital history and be a big step towards reparations to the First Nations |
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If not you, who? If not now, when? |