Special places : a newsletter of The Trustees of Reservations

12 Pages·1997·1.3 MB·English

by  The Trustees of Reservations

The Trustees
of Reservations
Conserving the
Massachusetts Landscape
Since 1891
SPECIAL
PLACES
Volume 5, No. 3 '« Summer 1997
'* - *
A QUARTERLY NEWSLETTER
For Members and Donors of
The Trustees of Reservations
Louis DeAngelis cultivated his fields with boundless energy.
Farming Successfully Amidst Suburbia
In a time characterized by relentless suburban sprawl, Trustees Director of Land Conservation. Wes recalls,
often at the expense of vulnerable agricultural land, saving "Louis wanted his property to remain an active and
a productive farm from development constitutes a major economically-viable farm long after he had passed away.
win for land conservation. Such has been the case with the He knew how difficult farming had become, and he
—
DeAngelis Farm in Millis, a well-known landmark. eventually gave up his small dairy herd a heart-
The story begins with Louis DeAngelis, son of Italian wrenching decision to make. He decided to entrust The
immigrants, who farmed for his entire working life a Trustees with his property, directing us to find the best
67-acre tract of land in Millis. He was a bachelor, hard- way to secure its agricultural future." Thus, DeAngelis
working and fiercely protective of his independence. To his left his farm to MLCT when he died in 1993 in his
outspoken regret, he witnessed Millis grow from a small early 80s.
agricultural village to a bedroom suburb for Boston The MLCT Board decided that the best way to
commuters. Farmland near him was developed and other honor Mr. DeAngelis' bequest would be to find new
construction projects pressed to the very edges of his fields. owners for the farm who had the financial commitment
Yet, he cared so deeply about the future of his farm that, and personal characteristics needed to make farming
in 1982, he guaranteed its perpetual protection through successful in suburban Boston. In the fall of 1994,
the sale of an Agricultural Preservation Restriction (APR) MLCT marketed the farm by placing advertisements in
to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. New England farming journals and by hosting a two-day
Mr. DeAngelis was among the first farmers in the state Open House on the property. MLCT made it clear from
to apply to this innovative preservation program. At the the outset that the purchase price would not be the most
request of DeAngelis' lawyer, Michael Healy of Holliston, important criterion for selection; rather, a viable
the sale of an APR was facilitated by The Trustees of agricultural plan. Applicants were asked to commit to
Reservations through its affiliate, the Massachusetts Land rehabilitating the circa 1850 Greek Revival-style farm-
Conservation Trust (MLCT). During the APR negotiations, house, a popular local landmark, and to accept additional
Mr. DeAngelis discussed the future of his farm with Wes conservation restrictions as well as prohibitions against
Ward, then a staff member of MLCT and now The subsequent sale for profit of the farm to non-farmers.
continued on page 3
Page 2 SPECIAL PI ACES Summer 1997
Thoughts from the Executive Director...
Ours is a challenge where success The hiring process provides exciting opportunities to
is measured in terms of acres strengthen our organization. For every position, the net is
saved, visitors inspired, members thrown wide, and it is not unusual to receive over 100
joined, and funds raised. Yet, to applications for a given opening. We carefully scrutinize
achieve these goals, we face an qualifications and work experience as well as conduct
—
/ ^ tj^^fl I equally important challenge to exhaustive interviews and check references of finalist
recruit talented and committed applicants. Both technical abilities and "people skills"
staff and volunteers who are the are clearly important, but more so are various measures of
sine qua non of our success. character, such as initiative and dependability. We look
Not surprisingly, The Trustees for a good "fit," because we want our staff to enjoy their
staff expands dramatically during colleagues and the nature of their work.
the summer. To wit, last March 110 people were on the The threshold requirement for any successful applicant,
payroll; by July, this number had burgeoned to 225. As whether a shorebird biologist, a regional director, or a
warmer weather awakens plants from winter dormancy, maintenance technician, is the proverbial "fire in the
—
and summer vacation brings increased visitation to our belly" an unequivocal commitment to The Trustees
properties, we expand our buildings and grounds mission. This is the essential ingredient needed when one
maintenance crews as well as our wildlife management is called to go that extra mile, work during weekends, cope
capabilities, especially on our fragile barrier beaches. By with the unexpected (or the not so unexpected!) blizzard
fall, though, staff numbers are back to normal levels... or hurricane, or prepare a proposal for a critical deadline.
and the cycle continues. We want the best and we get the best. They come,
What makes this year so unusual, however, is the and, to a high degree, they stay.
increase in permanent positions at The Trustees. Thanks
to strong growth in the value of our endowment and to
the generosity of our many supporters, we have recently
been able to add eleven new full-time positions with the
current fiscal year's budget. Seven of these were called
for by initiatives laid out in Trustees 2000, our recently Frederic Winthrop, Jr.
Executive Director
completed strategic plan (copies ofwhich are still available).
Four are the result of new properties recently taken under
our care. Add to this list four replacement hirings A list of The Trustees newest permanent staff
necessitated by retirements and normal turnover, and you appears in the NOTEWORTHY section on page 8.
can begin to see how busy we have been in the job market.
Founded in 1891,TheTrusteesofReservations isa private FredericWinthrop,Jr. RegionalDirectors
nonprofitconservation organization, dedicated topreserving ExecutiveDirector ThomasFoster
forpublic useandenjoyment propertiesofexceptional JohnColeman SoutheastRegion
The Trustees scenic, historicandecological valueacrossMassachusetts Director&of 617/821-2977
and to protectingspecial placesacrossthestate. Today,The Finance Administration ChristopherKennedy
ofReservations Trusteesownsand manages 78 properties,totalingmorethan Eloise Hodges Islands Region
20,000 acres,and protectsan additional 10,500acresthrough Directorof 508/693-7662
Conservingthe theuseofconservationrestrictionson 150parcels.TheTrustees PlannedGiving WayneMitton
Massachusetts Landscape ofReservationsiscompletely independentofgovernmentand Richard Howe NortheastRegion
Since 1891 relies forsupportentirely upon membershipdues,contri- Directorof S08/3S6-43S1
butions, reservation receipts/events,grants,andendowments. PropertyManagement
RichardO'Brien
We inviteyourarticles, Ann Powell CentralRegion
photographs,commentsand For information aboutbecominga member,pleasecontact Directorof 508/840-4446
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563,290Argilla Road, Directorof 413/298-3239
Ipswich, MA01938. SpecialPlaces, August 1997. Volume5, IssueNumber3. Communications &Marketing
Tel[phone] SpecialPlaces (ISSN 1087-5026) is publishedquarterlyand WesleyWard EMdairtaorhsRen
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Pleaserecyclethis newsletterbypassingiton toafriendordonatingittoaschool,
library, business, orwhereveritmightbereadwith interest.
Summer 1997 i i I . PI rage 3
Farming Successfully Amidst Suburbia found reliable markets for their fruits, vegetables, and
continuedfrom front cover flowers, opening up what has become a popular farm
Six families submitted stand. After three years, the Tangerinis exercised their
plans, with the best purchase option and arc currently scheduled to complete
coming from Charles purchase of the farm this summer, thus starting another
and Laura Tangerini chapter in the story of the former DeAngelis farm.
of Berwick, Maine. Spring Street Farm (139 Spring Street, between Route
The Tangerinis 109 and Village Street in Millis) has been transformed
had operated a from a somewhat weary landmark of a bygone age to a
market garden in thriving and productive commercial asset for the local
Maine for the past community. The Tangerinis have brought with them
seven years, but were energy, creativity, and an ent—repreneurial spirit. They
interested in moving invite you to visit their farm to share both in the fruits
to the Boston area. (and vegetables and flowers) of their labors and to revel
They proposed to in the spirit of this truly special place. For our part, we
"employ sustainable are delighted to have played a pivotal role in the
A
' agricultural practices protection of what promises to be a productive farm for
— I J to make the former many, many years to come. ^
The youngest Tangerinis Charlie, 7and DeAngelis farm
Emilio, 8. economically, socially Plan a visit to Spring Street Farm this Fall
and environmentally fit" and to "connect the community to
the farm by providing quality fruits and vegetables as well as Fun on the Farm!
ongoing hands-on experiences for anyone with an interest or
curiosity in farming." The Tangerinis' imaginative plan for Weekends 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
the farm, combined with their extensive experience and September 27 - October 26
demonstrated work ethic, made them ideal candidates to
guide the DeAngelis farm into the next generation. 139 Spring Street, Millis
MLCT
negotiated with the Tangerinis a Lease and Between Route 109 and Village Street
Option agreement which provided for a five-year window
during which they could purchase the farm. In lieu of lease Hay rides, hay maze, pumpkin picking and
payments, the Tangerinis agreed to a schedule of capital painting, and other activities for the entire family
improvements on the farm. Renaming it "Spring Street For more information, call
Farm," they began farming in the fall of 1995. They have Laura Tangerini at 508/376-5024.
Original Italian Garden Gates Return to Castle Hill
The restoration of the Italian Garden at Castle Hill in
Ipswich moved one step closer to completion with the
return of the Garden's original entry gates following repair
of extensive corrosion damage. The elegant, circa 1915
wrought-iron gates are attributed to Frank Koralewsky of
the famous Krasser and Company Ironworks of Boston,
whose work can be seen at Harvard and Wellesley Colleges.
The gates were restored at the Rowley-based Cassidy
Brothers Forge, and, while researching the intricate design
of the gates, the Cassidy Brothers uncovered a detailed
photograph of the gate, showing the 14 roses that had
originally been incorporated into the design. They
commissioned a blacksmith to hand-forge replicas of the
roses and integrate them into the gate using what remained
of remnant leaves and stems. The Cassidy Brothers donated
to the Trustees both the time and material involved in this
aspect of the restoration. Funding for the project was
An employee from Cassidy Brothers Forgeputs finishing
provided by the David Crockett Fund, which has supported touches on the restoredgates to the Italian Garden.
several other vital projects at Castle Hill, m
Page 4 Summer 1997
New
Conservation Restrictions
Financial limitations have meant that The Trustees must usually
rely on the generosity of landowners to donate conservation
restrictions (CRs) over their private lands. However, in
extraordinary instances, where landowners' circumstances do not
favor such a gift, we will purchase a CR with publicly-raised
funds. Such has been the case with recently-purchased CRs at
Smith's Creek, West Barnstable.
both Potash Brook in Williamsburg and Smith's Creek in West
Barnstable.
At Potash Brook, neighbors joined together to fund the purchase of a CR (co-held with the Hilltown Land Trust)
which establishes a partial greenway connecting 1,000+ acres of publicly-held lands to the north and the Massachusetts
Audubon Society's 500+ acre Graves Farm to the south. The varied habitats contained in this 65-acre parcel support a variety
of wildlife, including bobcat, bear, and rare salamanders breeding in a vernal pool on the property.
At Smith's Creek, thanks to generous financial assistance from an anonymous neighbor, we purchased a CR over
14 acres of upland woods, open fields, blueberry thickets, and marshes along the south side of the Great Marshes
of Barnstable, thus protecting forever the parcel's role in preserving the wildlife habitats and water quality of that great
ecosystem. With these conservation restrictions, our CR tally now numbers 150 parcels, totalling more than 10,500 acres
Collaborative Effort Protects Historic Property furthest removed from the historic district. Proceeds from
the sale of the lots would enable MLCT to fund
In 1948, to prevent a potential housing development, Mary transaction costs, an endowment for the SPNEA
Charles purchased the circa 1818 Reverend Bailey Loring
restriction, and costs for the maintenance of the remaining
House and surrounding farmland along Academy Road in 10.5 acres of land. Finally, MLCT would convey this land,
tB the historic with endowment, to The Trustees, to be held permanently
district of Old as part of a public greenway linking two nearby Trustees
North Andover
properties, The Stevens-Coolidge Place and Weir Hill
Center. Mrs.
Reservation. Already, the "Loring-Charles-Stevens
Charles' sons, Historic Conservation Reserve" is taking shape. The
Robert and
Loring House has been sold and the two lots placed under
Samuel Stevens
contract with a local builder. Within a year, transfer of
were equally
the land to The Trustees will be complete and a trail will
committed to
be constructed, thus fulfilling the Stevens brothers' vision
protecting the
for the property. ^
16-acre farm
and purchased
The Stevens Property, North Andover.
_ it out of their New Additions to Reservations
mother's estate in 1985. The Ward Reservation in Andover and North Andover has
Recently, however, they decided to sell the farm. Given
grown to 694 acres thanks to the addition ofa 7.8 acre parcel
continued development pressures in the area, the Stevens of land offStone Post Road deeded by Mr. Mark Conserva.
brothers were naturally anxious about the farm's long term
With Ms. Sophie Villanti's generous donation of a 3.5
protection under separate ownership, and so turned to The
acre parcel of land offJeffreys Neck Road, Greenwood
Trustees for help. We counseled an arrangement whereby Farm in Ipswich now comprises 217 acres. ^
three key steps would be taken: First, the historic, federal-
style Loring House and its outbuildings, which sit on four —
Examples such as these of land acquisitions and
acres of land, would be sold to a private buyer, but —
conservation restrictions help to move The Trustees
protected by an historic preservation restriction held by the
Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities that much closer to our goal of protecting, over the next
(SPNEA). Second, the Stevens brothers would give twelve five years, at least 4,000 additional acres of high-quality
aLcarneds oCfonlsaenrdvtaotiTohneTTrruusstte(eMsLCafTfi)l.iatMe,LtCheTMwaossualcdhucsaertvtesout openFosprafcuerathnedraitnlfeoarsmta3t0ioand,dictoinotnaalctCrCihtaircallieLaWnydsmapanrceolrs.
Wes Ward at 508/921-1944.
and sell two, three-quarter-acre lots on Stevens Street,
A
C
L
A Listing of Updated and Newly Scheduled Fall Events
CENTRAL REGION Natural history tours will be given by Trustees staff and the
annual canoe ride on the Quaboag River will take place
Sunday. Feel free to bring your canoe and join the group
SUN, SEPT 7 canoeing this tremendously scenic river. 9 A.M. to 4 P.M.
Old Fashioned Melon Party
The Old Manse, Concord508/369-3909 SAT, NOV 8
We have water-melons ingoodadvancement; and musk Rock House Dinner Auction
melons have come up within three orfour days... So writes Ye Olde Tavern, West Brookfield
Nathaniel Hawthorne in his journal atThe Old Manse in 1843. An evening to benefit the Rock House Reservation! Enjoy
Enjoy an afternoon for all ages. Join us for 19th century Guest Speaker Ed Hood, Staff Research Historian and
outdoor games, tours ofthe house and landscape and, of Archeologist for Old Sturbridge Village. Cocktails at 5:30 P.M.,
course, the melons! 12 NOON to 5 p.m. Member adults $3, dinner at 6 P.M. AuctioneerJoe Craig ofJ&S Enterprises will
seniors and children (6-12) $2. Non-member adults $6, seniors begin at 7:30 p.m. Pre-registration requested by October 15 by
and children (6-12) $4. calling 508/840-4446. Member adults and seniors $30 per
couple. Non-member adults $35 per couple.
SAT, SEPT 20
Volunteer Work Day SAT, NOV 15
Elliott Laurel Reservation, Phillipston 508/840-4446 Volunteer Work Day
Help clean up the main trail and weed out the hardwood Swift River Reservation, Petersham 508/840-4446
saplings that are invading the laurel area. Please bring sturdy Help complete work on the scenic view ofthe Davis Tract
workboots, bow saws, lopping shears, pole pruners, work and clear trails along the Swift River on the Nichewaug Tract.
gloves and a lunch. We will meet at the entrance ofthe Please bring sturdy workboots, bow saws, lopping shears, pole
Reservation. 9 A.M. to 3 P.M. Pre-registration required. pruners, work gloves and a lunch. Meet at the Country Store in
Petersham center. 9 A.M. to 3 P.M. Please pre-register.
SAT, SEPT 21 and SAT, SEPT 28 ISLANDS REGION
A Sense of Place
The Old Manse, Concord 508/369-3909
A two-part literary program studying the works ofNathaniel THROUGH OCT 13
Hawthorne and Lucy Maude Montgomery and the "sense of Don't miss out on these great tours in the Islands Region during
place" in theirwritings. Materials provided. Ideal for grades 6- the fall! Pleasecall for more information and reservations.
12. Both sessions 4:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. Pre-registration required. Lighthouse Tours on Chappaquiddick
Members $15. Non-members $20. (Fee is for both sessions.) Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, Martha's Vineyard 508/627-3599
Cape Poge Natural History Tours by Oversand Vehicle or Canoe
OCT
SAT, 4 Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, Martha's Vineyard 508/627-3599
Treasures and Tales Great Point Natural History Tours
The OldManse, Concord 508/369-3909 Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge, Nantucket 508/693-7662
Discover the hidden treasures and secrets of The Old Manse Fishing Safari
on this special children's tour (age 6-10). We will explore the Wasque Reservation & Cape Poge, M.V. 508/627-3599
people and the past of the house through games and stories,
9 A.M. to 10:30 A.M. Members $3, Non-members $5. Martha's Vineyard Walks
OCT The followingwalkswill be led by Mary Merges, Islands Region
SAT, 4 Education and Interpretation Coordinator. Please call The
Natural History Tour Trustees' Islands Regional Office at 508/693-7662 for more
Swift River Reservation, Petersham 508/840-4446 details and to register. Bird walks are limited to 12 people.
Enjoy a walking tour ofthe Nichewaug Tract on Swift River Member adults $4, children (under 15) $2. Non-member
Reservation led by Naturalist Bob Clark. Please bring a picnic adults $6, children (under 15) $3.
lunch. 9 A.M. to 2 P.M. Pre-registration required. Free to all.
SUN, SEPT 7
FRI, OCT 24 and SAT, OCT 25 Migrating Shorebirds at Wasque, Chappaquiddick Island
An Old Manse Mystery Observe migrating shorebirds at Wasque Point. Walk to
The Old Manse, Concord 508/369-3909^ Katama Bay to watch feeding plovers, terns, sandpipers and
Join us for some murder mayhem at The Old Manse. You get other migratory shorebirds. Bring binoculars and field guide;
to play the detective by looking for clues to piece together the extras will be provided. Meet at Fisherman's parking lot at
answer ofour who-dunnit. Please call Laurie Butters tormore Reservation. 9 a.m. to 11 A.M.
information on fees, times, and reservations.
SUN, OCT 5
SAT, OCT 11 through MON, OCT 13 Hawks at Menemsha Hills, Chilmark
Rock House Fall Foliage Festival Walk to Prospect Hill for views of migrating hawks, weather
Rock House Reservation, West Brookfield 508/840-4446 and wind permitting. Enjoy spectacular views ofthe Elizabeth
Noted historian Bob Wilder will give special presentations on Islands and a walk through this up-island forest. Meet at
the formation and use ofthe rock shelter by various peoples. Menemsha Hills parking lot, off North Road. 1 P.M. to 3 P.M.
SUN, OCT 26 lead the hour-long walking tour, which includes a visit to the
Mytoi Gardens, Chappaquiddick Island Grand Allee, the Italian Garden, and the vegetable garden.
Wander through Mytoi Gardens viewing a variety ofplants and 1 P.M. Members are free. Non-members $5 per car.
learning ofthe changing history ofthis property. Look for
evidence ofwildlife in different habitats on the walk. Meet at SUN, OCT 5
Mytoi parking area. 9 a.m. to 11 A.M. 2nd Annual Ravenswood Park Cross Country Running Race
Ravenswood Park, Gloucester 508/281-0041
SUN, NOV 9 Enjoy the autumn colors and run 4.2 miles through the hills
Long Point Waterfowl, West Tisbury and forests ofMagnolia Swamp and Ledge Trails. 1/2 mile
Walk the trails at Long Point looking for migrating ducks and kids fun-run (age 6-12) starts at 9:45 a.m. Race starts at 10
geese on the coastal ponds. Observe changing habitats and A.M. Prizes for winners in three categories: 16-21, 22-40, and
other wildlife along the way. Meet at Long Point winter parking over 40. Registration fee: Members $5, non-members $15.
lot via Deep Bottom Road. 1 P.M. to 3 P.M.
NORTHEAST REGION SUN, OCT 12 and MON, OCT 13
Castle Hill Fall House Tours
Castle Hill, Ipswich 508/356-4351
Enjoy the season's colors while you visit Castle Hill during this
THROUGH OCTOBER special Columbus Day tour weekend. 10 A.M. to 3 P.M. Tours
Don't miss out on these great tours in the Northeast region depart every halfhour. Members are free. Non-member adults
during the fall! Please call for more information and $7, children and seniors $5.
reservations.
GuidedTours ofThe Great House at Castle Hill (Wed & Thurs) TUES, OCT 14
Castle Hill, Ipswich 508/356-4351 Uncommon Woodies You Should Be Growing
Crane Islands Tour (Daily) Long Hill, Beverly 508/921-1944
Crane Wildlife Refuge, Essex 508/356-4351 Mr. RichardJaynes, woody plant guru, will showcase some of
Group Guided Tours ofthe Sedgwick Gardens his favorite shrubs and trees that should be used more often.
Long Hill, Beverly 508/921-1944 You won't want to miss the opportunity after the lecture to
purchase small specimens ofsome the plants described! Pre-
SUN, SEPT 7 registration required. 10 A.M. Members $10. Non-members $12.
Signs ofWildlife Walk
Castle Hill, Ipswich 508/356-4351 FRI, OCT 31
I
Witness the signs ofwildlife on the Crane properties.Join a staff ' Going Once, Going Twice, Gone!
ecologist on a natural history tour at Castle Hill, where the wild- Castle Hill Murder Mystery Auction Fundraiser
lifeisabundant. 1 P.M. Members are free. Non-members $5 percar. Castle Hill, Ipswich 508/356-4351
|
Castle Hill and Dinnerand Death Productions presents a
TUES, SEPT 9 murder mysteryauction fundraiserand dinnerto benefitongoing
Trough Workshop restoration at The Great House. Auction items are once-in-a-
LongHill, Beverly 508/921-1944 lifetime opportunities including a sunrise breakfast on The
Create a lightweight, weatherproofstone trough you can use Great House roofand a weekendgetaway on Hog Island! In the
for perennials or dwarf shrubs. Even alpines can endure a New midst ofthe auction, you'll be asked to help solve a terrible
England winter in this specialized container. Pre-registration crime. Will you be able to guess 'who done it' before the
required. 10 a.m. Members $20. Non-members $25. auction gavel falls for the last time? 7:30 P.M. Members and
non-members $100 per person. Advance reservations required.
TUES, SEPT 16 1920s attire highly recommended!
Plant Adventures Around the World
Long Hill, Beverly 508/921-1944 SUN, NOV 2
Join Dr. Brinsley Burbidge, Director of the Fairchild Tropical Horseback Riding at Crane Beach
Garden in Miami, Florida, as he shares his exciting plant- Crane Beach, Ipswich 508/356-4351
hunting adventures. Pre-registration is required. 10 A.M. Discover the joys ofriding your horse on Crane Beach's white
Members $10. Non-members $12. sands. The trailer permit requirement will be waived for the
day. Participants must provide their own horse. 8 a.m. to
SUN, SEPT 21 sunset. Members and non-members $5 per horse.
Concours d'Elegance
Castle Hill, Ipswich 508/356-4351 SOUTHEAST REGION
Castle Hill hosts the third annual Concours d'Elegance
organized by the Vintage Sports Car Club ofAmerica. The
Concours features pre-World War II American and European
cars and pre-1960 vintage racing and sports cars. Blue Horizon SAT, SEPT 27
Jazz Band will perform "Twenties" and "Thirties" favorites. Charles River Canoe Trip
10 A.M. to 4 p.m. Member adults $8, children $4. Non-member Rocky Narrows Reservation, Sherborn 508/389-7815
adults $10, children $5. Tickets are available at the gate only. Arrive by canoe and visit Rocky Narrows Reservation for a
guided hike and picnic lunch. Bring your canoe, floatation
SUN, OCT 5 devices for everyone in your party, warm clothes and a picnic
Historic Landscape Tour lunch. Meet at 10 A.M. at the Route 27 bridge across the
Castle Hill, Ipswich 508/356-4351 Charles River in Medfield. Limited to 10 canoes. Please call
Explore Castle Hill's magnificent landscaping designed by the Bob Costello to pre-register. Free to all. Members are
Olmsted Brothers and Arthur Shurcliff. A staff historian will encouraged to bring guests.
3
SUN, OCT 19 COMING IN OCTOBER
—
World's End Its Land and Its People Fall Trail Day
World's End Reservation, Hingham 617/821-2977 Notchview Reservation, Windsor 413/684-0148
Join Naturalist Meg Moore a—s she leads this guided tour and Join the Notchview Committee and others in a day oftrail
tells the story ofWorld's End its land and its people. Meet at maintenance on Notchview's extensive trail system. This is a
Rangers Station rain or shine. 1:30 P.M. to 3 P.M. Memhers are good way to get in shape for the upcoming cross-country ski
free. Non-members must pay entrance fee. season! As ofthis printing, a date has not been set for this event.
WESTERN REGION Please call in Septemberfor information andjoin us!
SAT, OCT 4 and SUN, OCT 5
Colonial Encampment and Craft Show
THROUGH MON, OCT &
1 ColonelJohn Ashley House Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley
Sculpture at Naumkeag 1997 Falls 413/229-8600 or 413/298-3239
Naumkeag, Stockbridge 413/298-3239 Take part in daily life of America's Colonial Army. Military
Your last chance to see great outdoor contemporary sculpture drills, artillery demonstrations, camp life, cooking, and crafts
in the world famous Fletcher Steele Gardens. Works by Robert will be part ofthis fun and educational program. An eventforall
Butler, David Colbert, Gene Flores, Ann Jon, Tim Prentice, ages. Bringa picnic lunch or enjoy food offered for sale. 10 A.M. to
George Rickey andJoe Wheaton. Daily 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. 4 P.M. Member and non-memberadults $4,children (6-12) $2.
Members free. Non-members $5.
OCT
SAT, 11
SUNDAYS, SEPTEMBER through NOVEMBER Hawks over Hurlburt's Hill
Birds ofSouthern Berkshire County Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley Falls 413/229-8600
Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley Falls 413/229-8600 Join Naturalist Don Reid on a trip to the top of Hurlburt's Hill
Join us each Sunday morning for a journey into varied habitats to enjoy the view and identify and talk about the life history of
ofthe Cobble and beyond. Meet at 7:30 A.M. in September. hawks in migration. 12 NOONto 2 P.M. Member adults $5,
10 A.M. October through November. Members are free. children (6-12) $1. Non-member adults $8, children $2.
Non-member adults $3, Children (6-12) $1.
SAT, OCT 25
SAT, SEPT 6 The Haunted Dungeons ofNaumkeag
Rivulet Forest Walk and Tour Naumkeag, Stockbridge 413/298-3239
Bryant Homestead, Cummington 413/634-2244 Hold on to your masks...here it comes again! The best haunted
Whatattributescombineto form an "old-growth forest"? Explore house returns for another night ofspine tingling thrills and
the old-growth Rivulet Forest at the Bryant Homestead and walk chills. The fun begins at 3 P.M. with tours for the kids. The
in the footsteps ofhistory. Meet at the Homestead at 10 A.M. evening gets scarier as the moon rises! 3 P.M. to 9 P.M. Members
Members $3, children free. Non-members $6, children $2. and non-members $5, children (6-12) $2.
SAT, SEPT 6 and SAT, SEPT 13 FRI, OCT 24 through TUES, OCT 28
The Natural History ofthe Housatonic River by Canoe Followingthe Birds South: An Exploration ofthe Mid-Atlantic Coast
Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley Falls 413/229-8600 Join Naturalist Don Reid and Rene Laubach as they lead you to
Join Naturalist Don Reid on a natural adventure along the some ofthe most spectacularWildlife Refuges and Conservation
Housatonic River and discover its wonders. Cost ofprogram areas ofthe Mid-Atlantic coast. Places like Assateague Island
includes canoe and all use ofequipment. Pre-registration National Seashore, Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, and
required. Canoe programs are limited to six canoes to assure a the listgoes on! For more information and itinerary, call Don at
quality experience. 9 A.M. to 11:30 A.M. Member adults $15, 413/229-8600 or write to P. O. Box 128, Ashley Falls, MA 01222.
children (10-16) $10. Non-member adults $20, children $12.
NOV
FRI, 7
FRI, SEPT 19 The Life History ofWaterfowl: A Workshop
The Life History ofHawks: A Workshop Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley Falls 413/229-8600
Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley Falls 413/229-8600 Join Naturalist Don Reid for this slide assisted workshop on the
Don Reid presents a slide program on the identification and life identification and life histories ofthese amazing animals. The
history ofraptors (hawks). This program will be followed the workshop will be followed the next day with a trip into the field
next day with a walk up Hurlburt's Hill to test your new-found visiting local ponds and lakes to test your new found skills!
skills in the field. Pre-registration required. Space is limited. 7 p.m. Member adults $5, children (10-16) $1. Non-member
7 P.M. Member adults $5, children (10-14) $1. Non-member adults $8, children $2.
adults $8, children $2.
NOV
SAT, 8
SAT, SEPT 20 Waterfowl: Field Identification
Hawks: Field Identification Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley Falls 413/229-8600
Bartholomew's Cobble, Ashley Falls 413/229-8600 A continuation ofthe November 7th lecture. Don will take you
A continuation ofthe September 19 evening lecture on hawk to local ponds and lakes in search ofwaterfowl and help with
identification. After walking to the top ofHurlburt's Hill at field identification, explain migration, and the fascinating life
Bartholomew's Cobble, Don will assist you with your history ofthese birds. Bring binoculars and a spotting scope if
identification of hawks and explain the natural history ofthese you have one. {Don willhave one to share.) We will carpool
amazing animals. 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. Please bring a picnic lunch from the Cobble. 8 A.M. Member adults $5, children (10-16) $1.
(Don likes cookies!). Member adults $5, children (10-14) $1. Non-member adults $8, children $2.
Non-member adults $8, children $2.
7
NFOTFWOR
range ofvery high quality woody and herbaceous plants for
News & Shorts of|All Siort|s wusheidchtobomtahinstaaliens haanvdeebnehcaoncmeetwheellgakrndoewnns.aPnrdocpeuerdcshawsiellplbaent
materials. Additional funding is still needed for major garden
restoration projects, such as stabilizing the Serpentine Wall and
i' The Trustees would like to welcome the following new recreating the fountain basin in the Rose Garden at The Stevens-
members ofour permanent staff: Coolidge Place, and repairing the woodland pool and replacing
Paul Antoniazzi, Maintenance Technician, Stockbridge over 30 ornamental flowering trees lost during the 1997 April
Management Unit Fool's Day storm at Long Hill. Anyone interested in helping to
Gordon Clark, Superintendent, Stockbridge Management Unit fund these criticalprojects should contact Bob Murray at The
Anne Contois, Administrative Assistant, Central Region Stevens-Coolidge Place (508/682-3580) or Lillabeth Weis at
Susan Edwards, Associate Director ofHistoric Resources Long Hill (508/524-1871).
Jim Groleau, Assistant Superintendent, Coolidge Reservation
Bill Hersey, Maintenance Technician, South Shoreand W New Boardwalk Constructed at Ravenswood Park. Thanks to
Cape Cod Management Unit a $2,500 grant from the Entrust Foundation of Gloucester, The
Tom Knowles, Superintendent, Eleanor Cabot Bradley Trustees has completed the construction a 500-foot boardwalk
Reservation which provides visitor access through part of Great Magnolia
JeffMontgomery, Superintendent, Charles River Valley Swamp at Ravenswood Park in Gloucester. The swamp provides
Management Unit* a unique habitat for the northernmost native population of
Kimberly Saulnier, Historic Site Administrator, Naumkeag sweet bay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana), a plant which
and The Mission House appears on the state's endangered species list.
Tim Silva, Maintenance Technician, Central Region
Martha Valleriani, Assistant Director of Membership YANKIi MAtlAZINl 'X IFabulous Field Farm Bed & Breakfast.
TRAVEL GUIDE (Each year, the travel editors of Yankee
*Mark Baileyhasmovedto theNortheastRegion, wherehenow *° New England (magazine select New England's best
servesas SuperintendentoftheIpswich/NewburyManagement Unit. Ivisitor attractions, restaurants,
lodgings and shopping destinations. From a group ofover 60
'« New Trail Maps on Sale.New Trail Maps include: Appleton lodgings in northern Berkshire county, Yankee magazine chose
Farms Grass Rides in Ipswich; Bartholomew's Cobble and the three as "Best Lodging in the Region," including The Trustees
Colonel John Ashley House in Ashley Falls; Field Farm in very own Field Farm Bed & Breakfast in Williamstown. It will
Williamstown; and Notchview in Windsor. By year's end, trail be listed in the 1997edition of Yankee magazine's Travel GuideTo
maps of Old Town Hill in Newbury and Rocky Narrows in NewEngland, which is readeach year by 600,000 travellers, and
Sherborn should also be completed. Many thanks go to will alsobelistedon Yankeemagazine'swebsite:www.newengland.com.
Geographic Information Specialist (GIS), Kendra Crosby, who Our heartiest congratulations go to Trustees Superintendent,
is responsible for map planning and creation at The Trustees. Andy Bernardy, and Innkeepers, Jean and Sean Cowhig! Visitors
To order these and other Trustees maps, please call Linda to Field Farm can enjoy the recently opened 42-acre Caves Lot,
McAskillat 508/524-1851. where streams disappear into underground caves, a self-guided
tour ofthe garden's sculpture and statuary, a small, but growing
*MJ!1
naturecenter, and breathtaking views ofMt. Greylock. Forfurther
information or to make B&B reservations, call 413/458-3135.
"i? Conservation Work Continues in Trustees Historic Houses.
The Trustees has been busy cataloguing furniture, books and
decorative objects at both the William Cullen Bryant Homestead
—
in Cummington and at Field Farm in Williamstown important
first steps to a comprehensive collections management approach.
*In addition, numerous volunteers have helped with a project
to refit every window in The Mission House in Stockbridge with
fabricated replicas ofthe curtains originally hung in the house
MarcelLajeunessepreparesfortheannualStevens-Coolidge by Mabel Choate using recycled 18th century textiles. * An
Placeplantsale. Marcelhas workedfor The Trusteesfor21 years! archaeological dig in the kitchen at Greenwood Farm's Paine
House in Ipswich turned up an assortment ofmilk pans,
m 1997 Spring Plant Sales Best Ever.On back-to-back tankards, mugs, and 679 pieces ofredware ceramic, indicating
weekends in mid-May, Long Hill in Beverly and The Stevens- its possible use as a dairy during the late 18th century, while, at
Coolidge Place in North Andover held annual spring plant sales, The Stevens-Coolidge Place, an unusual Federal fancy-painted
now in their 9th and 13th consecutive year, respectively. set of furniture has been conserved. *Cracked window panes
Topping all previous single year gross sales, Long Hill raised have been repaired (or, in some cases, replaced with old salvaged
approximately $24,000, while The Stevens-Coolidge Place hand-blown glass) at The Old Manse in Concord and, based on
raised close to $10,000. The continuing success ofthese plant several of Hawthorne's diary entries, a circa 1840 vegetable
sales, which together attracted close to 3,500 people who garden has been recreated (see feature story on page 10).
collectively purchased over 6,000 plants, testifies to the wide
v Restoration ofChinese Garden at Naumkeag Begins. country residences not less than three acres in size which have
This summer, The Trustees began the second phase oi been successfully embellished with collections of rare and
restoration of Fletcher Steele's circa 1938 Chinese Garden at desirable ornamental trees and shrubs. In 1977, Mr. and Mrs.
Naumkeag in Stockbridge. Phase One, completed last year, McLennan gave to The Trustees the 594-acre McLennan
consisted ofextensive archival research (which turned up Reservation in Otis and Tyringham.
hundreds of period photographs) and detailed, on-site analysis
of the garden's original design and construction. Phase Two i» Arthur H. Phillips Fund for Interpretation Created.
now involves major structural work, including re-laying the An endowment fund honoring the late conservationist, Arthur H.
marble steps and re-cementing stucco walls of the Chinese Phillips has been created with a $100,000 pledge from the Cabot
[emple, re-leveling the Spirit Walk, and analyzing paint colors Family Charitable Trust. Once fully endowed, annual income
ofthe garden's walls and Moon Gate cornices. In addition, The from the fund will be used to develop a program to interpret the
trustees is replacing the stone seat "cushion" from the gaming natural and cultural history ofThe Trustees properties and
table area and the decorative marble grate by the Devil's Screen. selected conservation restrictions, including Moraine Farm, the
Many thanks go to the Lenox Garden Club for funding a 175-acre farm and residence in Beverly established by Arthur
significant portion of the work to date. However, further funds Phillips' grandfather,John C. Phillips, and landscaped by
will need to be raised for Phase Three of the restoration, which Frederick Law Olmsted during last century. To make a
will involve re-setting the garden's special water runnels, contribution to thefund, contact Ann Powellat 508/524-1860.
restoring large ceramic vases, and purchasing or reproducing
artifacts, wall hangings, and furniture for the Chinese Temple.
Forfurther information, contact Mark Baerat 413/298-3239.
'm Ecology Study In Progress at Questing. Questing, The
Trustees newest 405-acre reservation in New Marlborough, is
the subject ofan ecological and historical study by Darrell
DeTour, a graduate student at Antioch College. Darrell is
working with Trustees staffto research the property's cultural
history and build a baseline inventory of the property's wildlife,
including descriptions of all fauna and flora, namely forest-type
plant communities. This data will be used to guide management
decisions, such as where to locate trails, and provide
interpretive information for visitors. « Similar work is also
being undertaken by Islands Regional Ecologist, Lloyd Raleigh A group ofTrustees supporters depart Misery Islandafter
at Long Point Wildlife Refuge on Martha's Vineyard. celebratingacquisition ofthe final three-acre parcel of
unprotected land on the island, purchased with funds raised
through a specialappeal.
* Crane Islands Tour Needs Books & Binoculars. Seasonal
tours ofthe Crane Wildlife Refuge, which include a trip across
the Castle Neck River to Hog Island and Long Island, continue « Hill Top Site ofAbandoned Cold War Relic Protected.
In May, The Trustees, in collaboration with the towns of
through October 1997. Due to increased public demand,
Hingham and Cohasset and their local land trusts, completed the
additional sets of binoculars as well as plant and animal field purchase ofTurkey Hill. The town of Hingham acquired 30
guides (for both children and adults) are needed. Donations of acres; Cohasset 20 acres. The remaining five-acre peak ofthis
books or binoculars would be most welcomed by Assistant South Shore coastal drumlin, which was once used by the U.S.
Superintendent, Donnie Paquin, who runs the Tour. Please Defense Department during the Cold War as a NIKE radar
send care of: Castle Hill, 290 Argilla Road, Ipswich 01938. control site, was transferred to The Trustees. We hold a CR over
For more information or to make tour reservations, call the entire 55-acre parcel. Since closing on the property, the
508/356-4351. former concrete block and brick military installation has been
dismantled and the site regraded. Implementation of a landscape
m New Off-Road Vehicle Trail at Cape Poge. Since Hurricane plan is now under way. Turkey Hill will open to the public in
Bob struck Cape Poge in 1991, off-road vehicle access to East October as part of the adjacent 813-acre Whitney and Thayer
Beach has been restricted to trails located behind "The Cedars." Woods Reservation.
However, with improved conditions, a new 1.5 mile off-road-
vehicle trail has been created behind the sand dunes between «' Piping Plover Research Suggests Early Season Protection.
"The Cedars" and East Beach, giving nearer access to East Beach. This spring, at the Northeast Fish and Wildlife Conference,
(Note: Vehicles arestill notpermittedon the beach itself.) The Trustees presented ten years worth ofresearch data on
Piping Plover chick survival at Crane Beach. The findings? Of
« Ashintully Garden Recognized by MHS. In lateJune, the over 500 chicks observed between 1986-96, 65% survived to
Massachusetts Horticultural Society bestowed the H. Hollis fledge, while mortality was highest for chicks during their first
Hunnewell Medal on Mrs. Katharine McLennan, honoring the ten days oflife and for chicks hatching late in the season. The
private estate garden created by her late husband,John S. implications? Protecting plover nests and chicks early will
McLennan, at Ashintully Farm in Tyringham. The Hunnewell enhance their chances ofsurvival...and allow beaches to
Medal was established in 1870 and recognizes gardens of reopen far more quickly!
Page 10 Summer 1997
pure grasslands (or other threatened habitats) at the
Grasslands Enhancement Program expense of public access and use, but, rather, to manage
to Benefit Wildlife our varied landscapes, including grasslands, in an
ecologically sensitive manner which enhances their ability
to support wildlife over the long term.
While visiting your favorite reservations this summer,
you may have observed examples of several new
management strategies being explored. For example, on
Misery Island in Salem Bay, swaths ofgrassland, which
have previously been completely mown, are now being
criss-crossed with mown serpentine paths, leaving most of
the area to grow to tall, mature fields.
In addition to grassland enhancement techniques, we
are working hard to recreate grasslands in places where
they have been lost, such as at Wasque on Martha'sVineyard,
Selectively mowngrass paths on Misery Island, Salem Bay. where controlled burns and mowing strategies are being
combined to create conditions ideal for regrowth of
sandplain grasslands, which once covered much of the
By the early nineteenth century, most of Massachusetts had
island. On properties that include agricultural fields, our
been cleared for farmland or cut for timber, giving rise to
managers are working with local farmers to develop haying
large tracts of open land, including significant grasslands,
which came to support a diversity of plants and animals. methods that are more friendly to ground-nesting birds. At
Bartholomew's Cobble, farmers are cutting fields later in
However, with a decline in farming over the last 50 years
has come a concomitant loss of open grasslands; and as a the season and leaving portions of fields uncut. As a result,
result, certain plants and animals, whose life cycles depend birds, such as bobolinks and meadow-larks, are thriving in
on grassland habitats, have become rare and, in some cases, these fields.
With a more ecologically-balanced approach to how
endangered.
we manage our landscapes, we believe we can continue to
Recognizing the need both to protect the cultural value
provide access to our visitors without threatening the very
and enhance the ecological value ofgrasslands at our
plants and animals which inspire our love of nature. After
reservations, our planning and ecology staff has just
all, that is what sound land stewardship is all about.
completed a report that outlines recommended grasslands
For further information, contact Lisa Vernegaard
management guidelines. Our ultimate goal is not to restore at 508/524-1865. ^
Hawthorne's Vegetable Garden Recreated
at The Old Manse
s
Following their wedding on July 9, 1842, Nathaniel and Sophia Hawthorne
moved into The Old Manse in Concord, where they lived continuously until
1845. As a wedding gift, Henry David Thoreau planted a vegetable garden.
Students from Concord's AlcottElementarySchool
What we know of the garden's contents are drawn primarily from Nathaniel water tomato plants they startedfrom seed.
Hawthorne's writings on The Old Manse. One entry, dated July 1, 1843,
reads, We had our first mess ofgreen peas (a v—ery small one) yesterday. Every day for the last week has been tremendously
hot; and ourgarden flourishes like Eden itself only Adam could hardly have been doomed to contend with such a
tremendous banditti ofweeds.
This summer, in collaboration with Gaining Ground, Inc., and with support from the Concord Garden Club, The Trustees
recreated Hawthorne's vegetable garden at The Old Manse using organic gardening methods and heirloom seed varieties
donated by the Eastern Nature Seed Conservancy. Seed varieties were chosen based on information contained in George P.
Bradford's GardenJournal, Concord for the 1840s and 1861 as well as from late nineteenth century photographs of the
garden. Members of Gaining Ground are working with The Old Manse House Committee and volunteers, including local
area schools and youth groups, to maintain the garden. Each year, Gaining Ground grows, harvests, and distributes over
10,000 pounds of fresh, organic produce to Boston-area soup kitchens and food pantries. The Old Manse will contribute
all produce harvested from its garden towards the attainment of this goal. For information about this and otherprojects
at The Old Manse, call Laurie Butters at 508/369-3909. W