The Prydun-Mickley homestead, dating back to the 1700s, requires a feasibility study to be undertaken before the public can visit the farmhouse and grounds at the serene setting off the Coplay Creek in Hokendauqua.

The township obtained the 11.5-acre tract, including the main house and two smaller structures, in 2013 from private owners via grants the board of commissioners and administration sought from the Commonwealth.

A decision to go ahead with seeking a grant from the state by the recreation commission could take place in weeks.

Several years ago a number of residents living near the historic site went before the commissioners asking the township to acquire the property before developers took title to the tract.

Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr. said on Friday the feasibility study could give the township direction in bringing life back into the historic property. He said the property could be open to the public in "another year or more."

The Coplay Creek meanders the property at the north end of the spacious grounds, with the Ironton Rail Trail traversing the far end of the property. The homestead is near the Hokendauqua Park & Playground.

Hozza said "a lot of questions" are on the table regarding what restoration should occur. The mayor said whether the original windows should be replaced with double-pane replica glass is only one of many factors to be considered.

The Whitehall Historical Society, which operates the Grim site, will be a major player in the homestead's future.

The structure has many valuable artifacts, such as a potbellied stove and furnishings.

Township personnel have performed maintenance tasks at the property, including lawn mowing.

A farmer has been allowed to continue planting corn on the land in the interim.