Darlington School was built as a public school at the end of the 19^th century.  It was designed by Dudley Newton, known for his role in the development of the American Stick Style and residences he designed in Newport, Rhode Island.  High style examples of the Stick Style (as well as the Shingle Style) are rare in New Jersey, and the Darlington Schoolhouse is an interesting combination of the two. The applicant, an organization of 88 outdoor clubs, manages and conserves open land for hiking trails.

The current grant will help fund the preparation of construction documents for the exterior restoration and interior rehabilitation of the building.  A previous grant supported the preparation of a preservation plan and National Register nomination.  Upon completion of construction, the former school will be the administrative headquarters for the trail conference.