Special Places | Fall 2018 by The Trustees of Reservations

FALL 2018 VOLUME 26 NO. 3

FOR MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS OF THE TRUSTEES

Hello Gerry! Historic Marblehead island protected

BE A TRUSTEES VOLUNTEER

Get involved!

NEWS FROM ACROSS THE STATE

By volunteering with us, you’ll be able to share your skills and develop new ones, surrounded by the beautiful land and culture of Massachusetts. Ongoing and short-term opportunities to volunteer with The Trustees this fall include:

Stewardship & Carpentry Volunteers Flexible schedules Dunes’ Edge Campground, Provincetown & Martha’s Vineyard reservations esmall@thetrustees.org

Field Crew, Gardeners, Event Assistants Flexible schedules Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Powisset Farm, Dover Weir River Farm, Hingham esmall@thetrustees.org

KITCHEN Assistants, Cheese Ambassadors Flexible schedules Boston Public Market, Boston awolf@thetrustees.org

Harvest Assistants Tuesday-Saturday mornings Chestnut Hill Farm, Southborough awolf@thetrustees.org

Event Assistants Flexible schedules William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Notchview, Windsor Tully Lake Campground, Royalston msailor@thetrustees.org

Daffodil Bulb Planters Naumkeag, Stockbridge Flexible schedules and open planting Weeks of Oct 15, 22, & 29 tkubis@thetrustees.org

Haunted House Actors Naumkeag, Stockbridge Oct 19 & 20, 25 & 26 tkubis@thetrustees.org

Ski Ambassadors Flexible schedules Notchview, Windsor msailor@thetrustees.org

These listings are among dozens and dozens of options for you to help out at a Trustees reservation near you. For more details, and a full list of all our volunteer opportunities, visit thetrustees.org/

volunteer.

Grant Begins Climate Change Resiliency Work in Ipswich Many of the Commonwealth’s coastal communities are facing mounting challenges due to the effects of increasingly severe and frequent storms and the resulting flooding and infrastructure damage they cause. One such town, Ipswich, in partnership with The Trustees, has been awarded a $156,155 Coastal Resilience grant from the Massachusetts Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs’ Office of Coastal Zone Management (CZM) to help fund an important climate change resiliency project planned for Argilla Road. The main access point for nearly 400,000 visitors to The Crane Estate each year, Argilla Road recently experienced widespread tree and structural damage and erosion during the March 2, 2018 nor’easter; the storm surge temporarily closing the entrances to Crane Beach and Castle Hill and causing the Crane Beach Gatehouse to be lifted nearly a foot in order to avoid extensive damage. The CZM grant will be augmented by in-kind matching contributions from both the Town and The Trustees to fund studies to support design and planning for nature-based, green infrastructure approaches to help protect Argilla Road from future flooding and erosion. “We are thrilled to see the Town of Ipswich receive this grant to help

Top: Tom O’Shea, right, Trustees’ Program Director for Coast and Natural Resources, inspecting a culvert on Argilla Road along with Frank Ventimiglia, DPW Operations Manager for the Town of Ipswich, and Julia Knisel, StormSmart Coasts Manager with the Massachusetts Coastal Zone Management Agency. Above: CZM Awards Ceremony on August 1 in Ipswich.

us move our partnership forward on this important project and are grateful to the CZM for its support of coastal resiliency projects statewide,” says Tom O’Shea, Trustees Program Director for Coast & Natural Resources. “We are equally invested in protecting our coastline in Massachusetts and The Crane Estate is an important regional asset that we hope residents and visitors will continue to enjoy and have access to for generations to come.” Work on this phase of the Argilla Road project will be completed by summer 2019; look for updates on the Trustees website in the coming months.

New Membership Program for Companies Trustees is pleased to offer a new program to help companies provide their employees with more ways to maintain a healthy work-life balance and enjoy the most beautiful places in Massachusetts at the same time. Extending our relationships with companies that already include event sponsorships, educational programs, and corporate volunteer days, Trustees’ new Corporate Employee Membership Program now gives companies the chance to provide their employees with membership in The Trustees, so they can get outside, be active, and connect with the nature and culture of the Commonwealth. Employees receive all the same benefits as Family-level Members, from free or reduced admission to discounts for parking, beach

The new Corporate Employee Membership Program provides employees and their families with the same benefits as Family-level Members, including access to all 117 Trustees special places. Pictured: Hiking at Monument Mountain, Great Barrington.

and ski permits, stays at our inns and campgrounds, and more. If you know or work for a company that would benefit from this

MEAT CSA News Subscriptions Now Being Offered for Local, Sustainably Raised Meats Now in its third year, Trustees Meat CSA is now providing easier access to locally grown, humanely and sustainably raised grassfed meats from Trustees farms. Through a new subscription program, Members can receive monthly or bi-monthly shares of beef, chicken, pork, and lamb raised on five Trustees community farms—Appleton Farms in Hamilton & Ipswich, Chestnut Hill Farm in Southborough, Moose Hill Farm in Sharon, Powisset Farm in Dover, and Weir River Farm in Hingham. Topquality Trustees livestock are raised on the preserved open pastures and oak forests of Trustees farms. Meats are selected by CSA staff to encourage members to explore new cuts, and several customized options are also offered. Membership in the Meat CSA gives you the chance to get to know your local farmer and, most importantly, you’ll help support a strong local food system. Learn more at thetrustees.org/meatcsa.

program, or would like to learn more, please contact membership@thetrustees.org, or visit thetrustees.org/getoutside.

One Waterfront Website Advances Vision for Boston Trustees has recently launched a new website devoted to its effort to secure open space solutions along the Boston waterfront. The initiative—which has been making significant progress towards achieving its goals—has recently been titled One Waterfront: Resilient, Strong, and Open in an effort to convey the unity of vision among the organization and its partners in the corporate, commercial, municipal, and nonprofit communities. The new website—thetrustees.org/ onewaterfront—provides an in-depth look at this vision: imagining a future for Boston with iconic, world-class waterfront parks that improve sustainability and resiliency, and are open to all. Trustees Members and friends are encouraged to visit the website frequently to track our progress, as well as learn about ways to participate and help us realize this vision.

CORRECTION: The Boston Committee of the Garden Club of America was inadvertently omitted as a donor to the new Windermere Community Garden in the Summer 2018 issue of Special Places. We regret the error, and are grateful to the Boston Committee of the Garden Club of America for their generosity and support of The Trustees’ mission.

FALL 2018

OUT AND ABOUT

3 © DAVID WELCH PHOTOGRAPHY

1 1) Debbie & Joe Loughrey and family having fun in the photo booth; and 2) Kerri & Joe Eck and Mary & Jim Murphy enjoying the celebration at The FARM Institute’s Meals in the Meadow event in July.

3) Boston Mayor Marty Walsh and Parks & Recreation Commissioner Christopher Cook join Trustees staff and gardeners from the Nightingale Community Garden in Dorchester at the Community Grown launch in July; and 4) The Mayor shows off his gift of scarlet sage and white petunias.

5) Kate & Hans Morris; and 6) Lauren & Paul LeBlanc (right) with Brian Cruey, Trustees’ Southern Berkshires General Manager, celebrate at the Naumkeag Garden Party.

7) Cutting the ribbon; and 8) fist-bumping a student, is Joe Kennedy III, U.S. Representative for Massachusetts’ 4th Congressional District, at the August opening of the Cooperative Nature School at The Trustees Moose Hill Farm in Sharon. 8

CONTENTS

Hello Gerry!

Historic island is 117th reservation. THE TRUSTEES

9) Barbara Erickson addresses the crowd at June’s Rose Garden Soiree at The Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover.

Harvest a bounty of fun.

Fall programs and events, statewide.

Threatened species return to Katama.

It’s Fall, Y’all!

ON THE COVER: TRUSTEES’ NEWEST RESERVATION, GERRY ISLAND IN MARBLEHEAD. ©TRUSTEES

Things To Do

Revealing Nature

The Places People Love Dear Members, With your help, we have protected our 117th reservation: Gerry Island in Marblehead is now the latest in our list of very special places that have been permanently protected. I hope you share in our excitement about protecting more of Massachusetts. The effort to protect Gerry Island involved many, and we are especially grateful to Ted and Julie Moore— who donated the island to The Trustees—and to the nearly one hundred North Shore residents whose contributions secured the endowment that will enable us to maintain Gerry for the public’s use and enjoyment, long into the future. I hope you will take a few moments to read about the history of this iconic place. Today, we strive to be fiscally responsible stewards and to plan carefully for how we will care for these places. It is a mandate to our work. The people of Marblehead showed how important Gerry Island is to them: they love this gem in Little Harbor. The mainstay of our work is protecting the places that people love, which is why it is a priority in our new strategic plan. And the protection of this island furthers our work along the Commonwealth’s coastline, another critical goal in the plan. More than a quarter of our reservations are in the Coastal Zone, and many will require special attention in the coming years as we grapple with the effects of climate change and sea level rise. Now fall approaches: the temperature cools, summer vacations fade into fond memory, and our thoughts turn to the accelerating tempo of the season and the work we have ahead. As I write this, the Trustees team and I are excitedly preparing for our first gala fundraiser devoted to our work to secure new iconic parks along the Boston waterfront. Many members of the City’s business community, along with our municipal and nonprofit partners and friends, are joining us to officially kick-off our initiative, which we are calling One Waterfront: Resilient, Strong, and Open. I hope you will visit our website to read more about this endeavor, and that you will join us in ensuring that the Boston waterfront becomes as resilient and as open as possible for all. Warm Regards,

Barbara J. Erickson President & CEO

Conservation intern program launches.

Experience our places on two wheels.

Trustees’ data driver, Vin Antil.

Trustees of the Future

Hit the Trail Riding

Employee of the Year

FALL 2018

Hello Gerry! Historic Marblehead landmark joins Trustees’ family of protected islands BY DINAH CARDIN

Visible from Marblehead’s historic Fort Sewall and the town’s Gas House Beach, Gerry Island is a beloved and iconic feature of the area’s coastal and cultural landscape, and a popular destination for those seeking unique views of the historic shoreline.

THE TRUSTEES

©TRUSTEES

A rocky outcropping, accessible at low tide, Gerry (which is pronounced with a hard “g”) recently joined its neighbor Crowninshield Island as a Trustees reservation—becoming the organization’s 117th special place preserved as open space for the public’s use and enjoyment, forever. Gerry also becomes the newest culturally and naturally significant North Shore island to be protected by The Trustees, an assemblage that includes the Misery Islands in Salem Sound, as well as Choate and Long Islands in the Crane Wildlife Refuge in Essex. Longtime Trustees board member Brian Kinney visited the island on a hot day in August to complete his visits to every one of the distinctive properties owned and managed by the organization. With its increased focus on the Massachusetts coast, Kinney says Gerry Island is the perfect addition to The Trustees portfolio. “I view the Trustees’ whole collection as a treasure map of the state of Massachusetts,” says Kinney. “Even the getting there is interesting—it’s a fun quest.” Walking out on the naturally occurring land bridge in Little Harbor, off of Marblehead’s northeast shore, is really to step

©TRUSTEES

Marblehead residents relax on Gas House Beach with views, and easy access via kayak or paddleboard, to both Gerry Island (right) and Crowninshield Island (left) in Little Harbor.

back into history. The island was named for Elbridge Gerry—most remembered for the term “gerrymandering”—who was a significant contributor to American history as a signer of the Declaration of Independence,

IMAGE FROM NOAA’S OFFICE OF COAST SURVEY HISTORICAL MAP & CHART COLLECTION HTTP://HISTORICALCHARTS.NOAA.GOV

governor of the Commonwealth from 1810-11, and Vice President of the United States under President James Madison from 1813 until his death in 1814. “The opportunity to link this place with

FALL 2018

At 130 acres, Choate Island (formerly Hog Island, above) is the largest of the seven islands--Choate, Long, Dean, Dilly, Pine, Patterson, and Round— that make up the Crane Wildlife Refuge in Essex. Below, the views from Crowninshield Island stretch from Marblehead Harbor out to the Atlantic in the distance.

this rich history is really special,” says Alicia Leuba, Vice President of the Eastern Region. “He was an absolutely fascinating figure.” Gerry played a crucial role in the success of the Constitutional Convention in 1787, as he proposed the ultimate structure of the Legislative Branch, with a House whose members would be representative of each state’s population, and a Senate having an equal number of votes for each state regardless of size. LITTLE HARBOR LANDMARKS

From Gerry Island, one has a unique perspective of the breathtaking coastline, Marblehead Light, and the green expanse of Fort Sewall, where Marbleheaders stood their ground during the War of 1812. “It’s an acre and a half,” but such an important acre and a half,” says Vanessa Parker-Geisman, Land Protection Specialist for The Trustees. “What matters is how unique and special that acreage is.” In between downpours on the morning of the official acquisition, ParkerGeisman, who lives in Marblehead, hiked the perimeter of the island. “I tell people that you have to experience it,” she says. “Get out here

THE TRUSTEES

and see why everyone loves this little part of the world.” Neighboring five-acre Crowninshield Island, formerly known as Brown’s Island and a popular spot for hikes and picnicking, is named in honor of heiress Louise E. du Pont Crowninshield, a philanthropist and founding trustee of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The family donated the rocky wooded island to The Trustees in 1955, and it thus became the third island protected by the organization—joining previously protected Great and Little Misery Islands in Salem Sound. A REFUGE IN ESSEX

More than a half million visitors enjoy

the coastal properties of The Trustees each year. The tranquil islands the organization protects entertain the fewest among them yet offer unique, expansive views of the shoreline and ocean stretching as far as the eye can see. Sitting out in Essex Bay southeast of the Crane Estate, the largest of the islands is graceful Choate Island, another rare gem of cultural and natural significance. Formerly known as Hog Island, the 130-acre island is located in the Essex River Estuary and is the largest of seven islands that make up the Crane Wildlife Refuge. Choate boasts a rich cultural history that includes pre-European settlements and centuries of agricultural legacy. It’s an iconic remote agrarian landscape, virtually unchanged since the 1700s—a rocky ridge created by glacial ice that has been a landmark for mariners for centuries. One of the state’s premier scenic resources, the island’s diversity of habitat makes Crane Wildlife Refuge also an area of great ecological wealth. Crown kinglets and sharpshinned hawks are attracted by its spruce forest planted in the early 20th century, and its grasslands provide critical habitat for

bobolinks and Savannah sparrows. “Seen from the water, it can transport you back in time,” says Peter Pinciaro, General Manager of the Crane Estate, who claims that serene and solitary Choate Island, surrounded by salt marsh, is the finest property owned by The Trustees. “The views from the summit are remarkable,” says Pinciaro. “You can see all the way to Maine on a clear day.” The best time to visit Choate is the fall. To access the island, boaters and paddlers coming from the Essex River and beyond can dock on Long Island, stroll along a pretty trail over a hilltop and past the ca. 1778 Proctor Barn, until the path delivers them to the island and the early-18th-century Choate House. A moderate hike to the windswept summit reveals the gravesite of Cornelius and Miné Crane, who made the island their home and donated the Refuge as well as what is now the Inn at Castle Hill—a total of 700 acres—to The Trustees in 1974. THE ‘MISERYS’ OF SALEM

Further to the south, Great Misery Island offers stunning views of Salem Sound and hiking through the ruins of an early-20thcentury resort. A century ago, this 83-acre island was a haven for leisure and recreation. Charming summer cottages and rustic, but elegant bungalows dotted the island, and golf tournaments and regattas attracted Boston and North Shore socialites. But the resort fell on hard times, and in 1926 a devastating brush fire ended all vestige of resort life. In 1935, however, North Shore residents came together to fight a proposed twelve-milliongallon oil storage facility and acquired a majority the land for the purpose of donating it to The Trustees so it would never be developed. Today, you can reach Great Misery’s four-acre sibling Little Misery Island by wading across a narrow, shallow channel at very low tide. The bones of various shipwrecks bring another aspect of a historical past just off shore—visible are the remains of the steamship The City of Rockland from Maine, scuttled here many years ago. The Trustees’ North Shore islands are emblematic of the organization’s ongoing mission to protect and conserve much of the state’s coastline—more than 120 miles of which are now in The Trustees’ care. The acquisition of Marblehead’s Gerry Island

The ruins of an early-20th-century resort dot the landscape of Great Misery Island, which is accessible by boat or the Sea Shuttle ferry service out of Salem.

continues that tradition. Affected by recent storms, Gerry Island furthers the organization’s strategic mission to educate young people and adults about changing coastlines. Looking forward, The Trustees seeks to implement cutting-edge land management and greater protections and planning to prepare for the impacts of climate change. MOVING AHEAD IN MARBLEHEAD

Marblehead residents Ted and Julie Moore had owned Gerry Island for 33 years, allowing the public to use and enjoy it, helping to make it a popular destination among locals. They have now made public access official and permanent through their decision to donate the island to The Trustees. After years of observing trash pickup and conscious stewardship at Crowninshield next door, the Moores are especially happy to know that their little piece of the world is in good hands. “We thought it was appropriate after 400 years of private ownership to donate it to an important land conservation organization so that they can take care of it for the next 400 years,” said Ted. The waterfront and world class sailing drew Ted to Marblehead more than 40 years ago and then he helped Julie fall in love with the town too. The island was included in the purchase of a nearby boat yard; Ted remembers “very much” wanting the island. The couple obtained permits to put a stone cottage on the island, but they never got around

to building it. Instead, they held birthday parties and clambakes there. Julie kayaks to the island once a week at high tide to check on the property, enjoy the views, and read. The couple are happy that young people will have an authentic experience of the natural coastline at Gerry Island. “To be able to walk out to an island surrounded by water in the Greater Boston area is pretty rare,” said Ted, adding, “We’ve spent a lot of years with our kids on the seashore and in boats, looking at turtles and fish and seabirds and aquatic creatures.” The recent acquisition of Gerry Island “really touched the heart of the community on the North Shore,” says Leuba. “I am blown away with the connection that people feel to this place.” More than 90 donors contributed to a $250,000 endowment to maintain the land in perpetuity. Stewardship work begins this fall with plans for a ribbon-cutting in the spring. A ranger will welcome visitors to both Gerry and Crowninshield Islands on weekends during the peak season. In addition to a groomed trail, Gerry will also soon have signage to share its history. “We talk about the importance of connection to place,” says Parker-Geisman. “The salty smells, the sea breeze, the humidity, the rocks. This is where we cultivate that feeling.” Dinah Cardin is a freelance writer who lives in Salem.

FALL 2018

FALL PROGRAMMING

WARD RESERVATION, ANDOVER & NORTH ANDOVER

It’s Fall, Y’all! Come Sample Our Bountiful Harvest of Fun

Gone are the dog days: the A/Cs are off and the windows have been thrown wide open. The humidity is dropping, there’s a fresh briskness to the air, and the leaves are beginning their magical, dazzling annual display. It’s fall, y’all! The days may be getting shorter, but that means the fun is just getting started. Trustees has all the pumpkins and spice—a veritable cornucopia of great programs and events—you need to enrich your soul, enliven your curiosity, and enchant your outdoor spirit this season. FREE FALL-IN’

Our tradition of providing free access to our properties continues this fall, on the Columbus Day and Veterans Day holidays, and “Green” Friday—the day after Thanksgiving. Head out to reservations in your local area on

Columbus Day, when properties are free to residents of the counties they are located in. Active and retired veterans and their families are welcome free of charge at our properties on Veterans Day. And instead of joining

the mad rush at stores and malls, turn Black Friday green and #OptOutside at a Trustees special place—all of our outdoor properties are free that day. Look for further details on our website. Continued on page 21

THE TRUSTEES

FALL 2018

THINGS TO DO

October | November | December

October CLASSES, WORKSHOPS & TALKS Mindfulness on the Farm Thursdays | 6:45-7:15AM Powisset Farm, Dover Member FREE; Nonmember $5

Conservation in Action

Thursdays | 12:30-3:30PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Museum Admission

Fresh, Fast & Delicious for Less w/ Project Bread

Thursdays | 11:45AM-12:30PM and 1-1:45PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member & Nonmember FREE

Appleton Farms Cheese Making Intensive

Thursdays | 11AM-4PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $160; Nonmember $200

Market Test KITCHEN

Fridays | 12Noon-1PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member & Nonmember FREE

Mixology Class with Bully Boy Distillers

Fridays, Oct 5, Nov 16 & Dec 21 6-7:30PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $40; Nonmember $50

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (+ Whiskey Tasting with Bully Boy Distillers)

Saturday, Oct 6; Fridays, Nov 9 & Dec 7 | 6-7:30PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $52; Nonmember $65

Baking School: Essential Breads with Chef Cleo

Sundays, Oct 7 & 21, Nov 4 & 18, Dec 2 & 16 | 1-3PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $48; Nonmember $60

Nella Pasta-Making Workshop

Sundays, Oct 7, 14, & 28, Nov 4 & 25, Dec 2 | 4-6PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $52; Nonmember $65

Leisure Fashion through the Decades

Saturdays, Oct 13 & Nov 3 | 6-8AM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $5; Nonmember $10

Fall Nature Journaling Workshop

Saturday, Oct 13 | 9:30AM-12Noon The Old Manse, Concord Member $10; Nonmember $15

KITCHEN Master Class: Noodles from Around the World Saturdays, Oct 13 & 20 and Sunday, Nov 11 | 1-3PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: Athens vs. Santorini, Greece

Monday, Oct 8 | 1-3PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $9; Nonmember $15

Saturdays, Oct 13 & Dec 15 5-7PM Sundays, Oct 21, Nov 18 & Dec 30 4-6PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Culinary Tour of China: Part 1

Paint the Gardens

Thursday, Oct 11 | 6-8:30PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $60; Nonmember $75

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (with Wine!) Friday, Oct 12 | 6-7:30PM Saturdays, Nov 3, Dec 1 | 5-6:30PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $52; Nonmember $65

FALL FESTIVALS Harvest Fest at Chestnut Hill Farm

Sunday, Oct 7 | 10AM-3PM Chestnut Hill Farm, Southborough Member Carload $25; Nonmember Carload $30

Harvest Fest at Fruitlands Sunday, Oct 7 | 10AM-4PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Museum Admission

Fall on the FARM

Sunday, Oct 7 | 12Noon-4PM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member Family $5; Nonmember Family $10

Harvest Fest at Powisset

Rise & Shine Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Sunday, Oct 14 | 10AM-3PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Family $24; Nonmember Family $30

Fall Into Pasta

Thursday, Oct 18 | 6-8PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $52; Nonmember $65

Fire Cider on the FARM

Saturday, Oct 20 | 10-11AM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member $12; Nonmember $20

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: All Food Leads to Rome

Saturdays, Oct 20, Nov 10 & Dec 8 | 5-7PM Sundays, Nov 11 & Dec 16 | 4-6PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Culinary Tour of China: Part 2 Thursday, Oct 25 | 6-8:30PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $60; Nonmember $75

Leisure Fashion Through the Decades

Thursday, Oct 25 | 7-8:30PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $9; Nonmember $15

Sunday, Oct 14 | 1-3PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $36; Nonmember $45

FAMILY FUN

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: Autumn in New England Comfort Foods

Sundays | 4-5PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member & Nonmember FREE

Sundays, Oct 14 & Dec 23 and Saturday, Dec 22 | 1-3PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Writing at Fruitlands: A Workshop with Winona Wendth & The Seven Bridge Writers

Wednesdays, Oct 17 & 24 | 6-8PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $60; Nonmember $75 for two-week series

Meet a Dairy Farmer

Junior Ranger Workshops

Saturdays | 10AM-12Noon Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge Member Child $10; Nonmember Child $15

Wagon Rides at Appleton Farms

Saturdays & Sundays | Rides at 11:30AM, 12:30PM & 1:30PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $2; Nonmember $4

The Art of the Dumpling with Noodle Lab

Barnyard Buddies

From the Orchard: Autumn Apple Harvest

October Barnyard Story Hour

Wednesday, Oct 17 | 6-8PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Thursday, Oct 18 | 6-9PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $72; Nonmember $90

REGISTER TODAY! thetrustees.org/things-to-do Use your member code (above your name on your member card) to qualify for member discounts. Program details subject to change. For up-to-date event information, or to search for events in your area, at a specific property, by type or by date, click on Things To Do at thetrustees.org.

Saturdays through Oct 27 9:30-11AM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member Adult/Child Pair $12; Nonmember Adult/Child Pair $20 Thursdays | 10-11AM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Child FREE; Nonmember Child $5; Adults FREE

NON-SCARY HALLOWEEN SCARY HALLOWEEN

HOLIDAY WINTER BREAK

THINGS TO DO

Weir River Farm’s Preschool Farm Explorers

Fridays, Oct 5-26 | 10-11AM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member Adult/Child Pair $60, Add’l Child $24; Nonmember Adult/Child Pair $75, Add’l Child $30; Fee covers all 4 weeks

Open Barnyard at Powisset Farm

Saturdays through Oct 20 10AM-2PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $10; Adults FREE

After-School FARM Club

Tuesdays, Oct 2-Nov 27 3:30-5PM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member Child $10; Nonmember Child $15

Wednesday Wonderings: Preschool Program Series

Wednesdays, Oct 3-24 10:30-11:30AM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $10; Adults FREE

Barnyard Story Hour at Weir River Farm

Wednesdays, Oct 3-24 | 10-11AM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member Child FREE; Nonmember Child $5; Adults FREE

Appleton’s Preschool Farm Explorers

Wednesdays, Oct 3-25 9:30-10:30AM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Adult/Child Pair $60, Add’l Sibling $24 ; Nonmember Adult/ Child Pair $75, Add’l Sibling $30; Fee covers all 4 weeks

Nature Playgroup at The Stevens-Coolidge Place

Columbus Day Reenactors

Saturday, Oct 6 | 11AM-4:30PM The Old Manse, Concord Member & Nonmember FREE

Hay Bale Hangout

Saturday, Oct 6 | 10AM-1PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $10; Adults FREE

Thursdays, Oct 4 & 18, Nov 1, 15 & 29, Dec 13 | 9:30-11AM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member Child FREE; Nonmember Child $5; Adults FREE

Fall Foliage Goat Hike

Sunday, Oct 7 | 1-2PM Notchview, Windsor Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $10

Sticky Fingers: Terrifically Tasty Toasts

Sunday, Oct 7 | 2-4PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Child $32; Nonmember Child $40

The Naumkeag Pumpkin Trail

Fridays & Saturdays, Oct 5 & 6, 12 & 13 | 5-7:30PM Naumkeag, Stockbridge Member Adult $9; Nonmember Adult $15; Children FREE

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (Family-Friendly)

COLUMBUS DAY

Saturdays, Oct 6 & Dec 1 | 1-2PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member Adult $28; Child $28; Nonmember Adult $35; Child $35

Trustees historic houses are open on Columbus Day, Monday, October 8, and admission is FREE to residents of the counties they are located in. See thetrustees.org for details, along with other Columbus Day activities happening throughout the state.

Kids in The KITCHEN

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich (Essex County) Fruitlands Museum, Harvard (Worcester County) Naumkeag, Stockbridge (Berkshire County) The Old Manse, Concord (Middlesex County)

Saturdays, Oct 6 & 27, Nov 10 & 17, Dec 8 & 15 | 10-11AM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member Child $9; Nonmember Child $15

October Free Family Fun Day

Monday, Oct 8 | 11AM-2PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member & Nonmember FREE

Dumplings, Dumplings, Dumplings

continued

Halloween at Hutch

Saturday, Oct 20 | 4-6PM Governor Hutchinson’s Field, Milton Member FREE; Nonmember Adult $6, Child $3

Full Moon Lighthouse Tour

Wednesday, Oct 10 | 3:30-5:30PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Child $36; Nonmember Child $45

Wednesday, Oct 24 | 6-8PM Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, Martha’s Vineyard Member Adult $28, Child $16; Nonmember Adult $35, Child $20

Meadow Hayrides at The FARM Institute

Boo in the Barnyard at Weir River Farm

Saturdays, Oct 13-Nov 17 11:15-11:45AM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member $5; Nonmember $10

Nightingale Harvest Potluck Saturday, Oct 13 | 12Noon-4PM Nightingale Community Garden, Dorchester Member & Nonmember FREE

Sunset Lighthouse Tour

Saturday, Oct 13 | 5-7PM Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, Martha’s Vineyard Member Adult $28, Child $16; Nonmember Adult $35, Child $20

Scavenger Hunt Challenge Saturday, Oct 20 | 10AM-4PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Museum Admission

Saturday, Oct 27 | 10AM-2PM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member Family $20; Nonmember Family $24

Hillside Halloween

Saturday & Sunday, Oct 27 & 28 10AM-4PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Museum Admission

Ghouls in the Garden

Saturday, Oct 27 | 4-6PM Minton Stable Community Garden, Jamaica Plain Member Adult $3; Nonmember Adult $6; Children FREE

Barnyard Boo & Haunted Barn

Saturday, Oct 27 | 4-8PM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member Family $5; Nonmember Family $10; FREE to all who wear costumes

Nocturnal Animal Pumpkin Trail

Saturday & Sunday, Oct 27 & 28 5-8PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member Adult FREE, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $5, Child $10

Pumpkins in the Park

Saturday, Oct 27 | 5:30-7:30PM Francis William Bird Park, Walpole Member & Nonmember FREE

Boo in the Banyard at Powisset Farm

Sunday, Oct 28 | 3-5PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $10; Nonmember $15

Halloween Tales at Weir River Farm

Wednesday, Oct 31 | 10-11:30AM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $10; Adults FREE

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Exploration Extras

Saturdays & Sundays | 10AM-4PM Rocky Woods, Medfield Fees vary from FREE to $15; discounts for Members

Guided Hikes

Sundays through Nov 30 11AM & 3PM Rocky Woods, Medfield Member Adult $5, Child FREE; Nonmember Adult $10, Child $5; Children under 5 FREE

Night Hike: Sounds, Stars & S’mores

Thursday, Oct 4 | 5:30-7:30PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Adult $9, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $15, Child $10

Mushroom Walk

Saturday, Oct 6 | 1-3PM Menemsha Hills, Martha’s Vineyard Member $10; Nonmember $15

Appleton Farms Autumn Bird Count

Sunday, Oct 7 | 8:30AM-12Noon Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member & Nonmember FREE

NON-SCARY HALLOWEEN SCARY HALLOWEEN

HOLIDAY WINTER BREAK

THINGS TO DO Fall Foliage Walk

Saturday, Oct 13 | 1-4PM Farandnear, Shirley Member & Nonmember FREE

Forest Bathing: Connecting with the Forest Atmosphere Saturday, Oct 20 9:30AM-12:30PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $28; Nonmember $35

Naturalist Walk: Sights & Sounds of the Farm

Sunday, Oct 21 | 10AM-12Noon Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Adult $9, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $15, Child $10

Full Moon & Folklore Hike

Tuesday & Wednesday, Oct 23 & 24 | 5:30-7:30PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $9; Nonmember $15

SPECIAL EVENTS Stories from the Hillside: An Evening of Storytelling Thursday, Oct 4 | 7-9PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $5; Nonmember $10

Powisset Saturday Café

Saturdays, Oct 6-20 | 10AM-2PM Powisset Farm, Dover

Down on the Farm Concert

Sunday, Oct 7 | 4-7PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Car $20; Nonmember Car $25

Indigenous Peoples’ Day at Fruitlands Museum Monday, Oct 8 | 11AM-3PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Museum Admission

20th Anniversary Farm-to-Table Dinner at Appleton Farms

Thursday, Oct 11 | 6:30-9PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $100; Nonmember $125

Scary Movie Night with Coolidge Corner Theater Friday, Oct 12 | 8-11PM Rocky Woods, Medfield Member & Nonmember $25

Fall Plant Sale at Haskell Public Gardens

Saturday, Oct 13 | 10AM-1PM (Early opening for members at 9AM) Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens, New Bedford Member & Nonmember FREE

12th Annual Tully Lake Triathlon

Saturday, Oct 13 | 10:30AM-3PM Tully Lake Campground, Royalston Member & Nonmember $60 (team discounts available)

In Their Own Words: Life in the Fruitlands Consociate Family

Saturday & Sunday, Oct 13 & 14 2-4PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $5; Nonmember $10

Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich

Saturday & Sunday, Oct 20 & 21 | 12Noon-6PM

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Saturday & Sunday, Nov 3 & 4 | 12Noon-4PM Schedules may change due to unforseen circumstances. Check thetrusteees.org/notch for the latest updates before heading out.

Cani-Cross Race & 3K Fun Run

Sunday, Oct 14 | 11AM-2PM Notchview, Windsor $20 Cani-Cross Race; $10 Fun Run/Walk

The Orchestra on the Hill

Thursday, Oct 18 | 7:30-9PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $35; Nonmember $35; Seniors/Students $30

Haunted House at Naumkeag Friday & Saturday, Oct 19 & 20, Saturday, Oct 27, Sunday, Oct 28 5:30-9PM Naumkeag, Stockbridge Member Adult $15, Child $15; Nonmember Adult $25, Child $25

Candlelit Tours

Friday & Saturday, Oct 19 & 20 6-8:30PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $10; Nonmember $20

Sunrise Coffee & Conversation on the Roof

Saturday, Oct 20 | 6:30-8AM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member Adult $12, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $20, Child $10

The Stevens-Coolidge Place Open House Saturday, Oct 20 | 10AM-2PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $5; Nonmember $10; Children 13 and under FREE

Dinner in the Barn: Farm-to-Table Meal with Wheelhouse

Saturday, Oct 20 | 5-8PM William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Member $68; Nonmember $85

Local Wild Food Challenge

Sunday, Oct 21 | 11AM-6PM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member & Nonmember Adults $20

Weir Hill 50th Anniversary & Parking Lot Grand Opening

Fruitlands Cup of Cyclocross

Saturday, Oct 27 | 8:30AM-3:15PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE for Spectators

The Mummy: A Castle Hill Halloween Party Saturday, Oct 27 | 7-9:30PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $44; Nonmember $55

Appleton Farms Costume Cocktail Party

Sunday, Oct 21 | 1-3PM Weir Hill, North Andover Member & Nonmember FREE

Saturday, Oct 27 | 7-9PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Adult $40; Nonmember Adult $50

Spirits of the Manse

Homestead Haunted House

Friday & Saturday, Oct 26 & 27 4-8:30PM The Old Manse, Concord Member Adult $5, Family $10; Nonmember Adult $10, Family $15

Foliage Bluegrass Cookout Friday, Oct 26 | 5-8PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member Adult $32, Child $16; Nonmember Adult $40, Child $20

Mystery Theater with Magician Melies

Friday, Oct 26 | 7-9PM William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Member $24; Nonmember $30

Saturday, Sunday & Tuesday, Oct 27, 28 & 30 | 7-10PM William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Member Adult $9, Child $4; Nonmember Adult $15, Child $8

Barn to Run: Trail Race Series Sunday, Oct 28 | 9AM-12Noon Powisset Farm, Dover Fees vary

November CLASSES, WORKSHOPS & TALKS Mindfulness on the Farm Thursdays | 6:45-7:15AM Powisset Farm, Dover Member FREE; Nonmember $5

Appleton Farms Cheese Making Intensive

Thursdays through Dec 20 11AM-4PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $160; Nonmember $200

Fresh, Fast & Delicious for Less w/ Project Bread

Thursdays | 11:45AM-12:30PM and 1-1:45PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member & Nonmember FREE

Bradley Fall Gardens & Preparing for the Winter

Thursdays through Nov 8 | 1-3PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $15; Nonmember $25

Market Test KITCHEN

Fridays | 12Noon-1PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member & Nonmember FREE

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: Autumn in New England Comfort Food Friday, Nov 2 | 6-8PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Rise & Shine Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (with Wine!)

Writing on the Trail with Tim Castner and The Seven Bridge Writers’ Collaborative

Farm Fresh! Custom Facial Treatments

Saturday, Nov 3 | 6-8AM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $5; Nonmember $10

Saturday, Nov 3 9:30AM-12:30PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $32; Nonmember $40

Blue Hills Great Estate Fall Foliage Tour

Saturday & Sunday, Nov 3 & 4 10AM-4PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $5; Nonmember $10

Sweet as Pie Culinary Class

Saturdays, Nov 3 & 10 10AM-12Noon Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $60; Nonmember $75

Intro to Birding

Saturday, Nov 3 | 10AM-12Noon Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $15; Nonmember $25

Cultures to Rinds: Cheese Making Fundamentals

Saturday, Nov 3 | 2:30-4:30PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $60; Nonmember $75

Saturdays, Nov 3 & Dec 1 5-6:30PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $52; Nonmember $65

Sunday, Nov 4 | 2-4PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $60; Nonmember $75

Thanksgiving Pies with Julia Cooks!

Thursday, Nov 15 | 6-8:30PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $60; Nonmember $75

Mixology Class with Bully Boy Distillers

Embellished Pumpkins Workshop

Intro to Backyard Composting

Thursday, Nov 8 | 6-8:30PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $60; Nonmember $75

Thursday, Nov 8 | 6:30-8PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $32; Nonmember $40

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (+ Whiskey Tasting with Bully Boy Distillers)

Fridays, Nov 9 & Dec 7 | 6-7:30PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $52; Nonmember $65

Growing Garlic

Saturday, Nov 10 | 10-11AM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member $5; Nonmember $10

Collage Art with Jill Pottle Saturday, Nov 10 | 10AM-4PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $80; Nonmember $100

Saturday, Nov 10 | 12Noon-2PM The Old Manse, Concord Member $60; Nonmember $75

Admission to ALL Trustees properties is FREE to veterans, active and retired military, and their families on Sunday, November 11 and Monday, November 12. Parking fees, where applicable, still apply. See thetrustees.org for details, along with other Veterans Day activities happening throughout the state.

Mixology Cocktail Making Class

Several Trustees historic houses are open for tours on one or both days:

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: All Food Leads to Rome

Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Fruitlands Museum, Harvard The Old Manse, Concord

Thursday, Nov 15 | 6-9PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $72; Nonmember $90

Culinary Tour of China: Part 3

Wreath Making with the Copper Penny

VETERANS DAY

Giving Thanks: The Holiday Harvest Table

Saturday, Nov 10 | 2-4PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $25; Nonmember $32

Saturdays, Nov 10 & Dec 8 5-7PM Sundays, Nov 11 & Dec 16 | 4-6PM Sunday, Nov 25 | 1-3PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Fridays, Nov 16 & Dec 21 6-7:30PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $40; Nonmember $50 Saturday, Nov 17 | 10AM-12Noon Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $24; Nonmember $30

What Did They Eat Back Then? A Thanksgiving Tasting from Bryant’s Era Saturday, Nov 17 | 1-2:30PM William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Member $20; Nonmember $25

Make It Take It Swag: In the Season of Giving

Saturday, Nov 17 | 1-3PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $15; Nonmember $20

From the Forest: Wreath Making

Saturday, Nov 17 | 3-5PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $60; Nonmember $75

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: Athens vs. Santorini, Greece

Sundays, Nov 18 & Dec 30 | 4-6PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: Classic Asian Flavors with Chef Irene Li Monday, Nov 19 | 6-8PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $72; Nonmember $90

KITCHEN Master Class: Steak Three Ways | Deluxe Class Saturdays, Nov 24, Dec 8 & 15 1-3PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $68; Nonmember $85

NON-SCARY HALLOWEEN SCARY HALLOWEEN

HOLIDAY WINTER BREAK

THINGS TO DO Create a Holiday Container Garden

Tuesday, Nov 27 | 6:30-8PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $40; Nonmember $50

FAMILY FUN After-School FARM Club

Tuesdays through Nov 27 3:30-5PM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member Child $10; Nonmember Child $15

The Great Pumpkin Chuck!

Saturday, Nov 3 | 10-11AM Chestnut Hill Farm, Southborough $5 per pumpkin

Kids in the Kitchen: Preschool Farm Explorers

Wednesdays, Nov 7, 14, 28 & Dec 5 9:30-10:30AM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Adult/Child Pair $60, Add’l Sibling $24; Nonmember Adult/Child Pair $75, Add’l Sibling $30; Fee covers all 4 weeks

Autumn Leaf Hunt

Sunday, Nov 11 | 10AM-12Noon The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $10; Adults FREE

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (Family-Friendly)

Sunday, Nov 11 | 11AM-12Noon Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member Adult $28, Child $28; Nonmember Adult $35, Child $35

Pumpkinpalooza

Sunday, Nov 11 | 2-4PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Child $36; Nonmember Child $45

Autumn Barnyard Story Hour Wednesdays, Nov 14 & Dec 12 10-11AM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $8; Adults FREE

Thanksgiving Treats & Tales Saturday, Nov 17 | 4-6PM Governor Hutchinson’s Field, Milton Member Adult $9, Child $3; Nonmember Adult $15, Child $5

Giving Thanks for Farms: Thanksgiving Celebration & Turkey Sale at Weir River Farm

Sunday & Monday, Nov 18 & 19 11AM-1PM Weir River Farm, Hingham All orders must be placed in advance: $50 Deposit; $8.50/lb for Members, $9.50/lb for Nonmembers (balance due at pickup)

GREEN FRIDAY

November Beaver Moon Hike

Green Friday for The Dogs

Friday, Nov 23 | 7-8PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $5; Nonmember $10

Barnyard Buddies: Thanksgiving Edition

Saturday, Nov 24 | 9:30-11AM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member Adult/Child Pair $15; Nonmember Adult/Child Pair $25

Skip the malls the day after Thanksgiving and #OptOutside to hit the trails and hike off that turkey dinner! Admission and parking to ALL Trustees outdoor sites is FREE. Check thetrustees.org for details along with other fun things to do on this day throughout the state. Friday, Nov 23 | 10AM-12Noon Appleton Farms & Appleton Farms Grass Rides, Hamilton & Ipswich Member & Nonmember FREE

Green Friday

Friday, Nov 23 | 10AM-3PM Bartholomew’s Cobble, Sheffield Member & Nonmember FREE

Green Friday Opt Outside Hike Friday, Nov 23 | 1-2:30PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member FREE; Nonmember $5

November

continued

Pre-Season Kick-Off!

WINTERLIGHTS HOLIDAY LIGHT DISPLAYS Winterlights at Naumkeag

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Nov 23-Dec 30 | 5-8PM Naumkeag, Stockbridge

Winterlights at The Stevens-Coolidge Place

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Nov 29-Dec 30 | 5-8PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Advance Tickets: Members $12; Nonmembers $17; Children 12 and under FREE Day-of Tickets: Members $15; Nonmembers $20; Children 12 and under FREE

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Guided Hikes

Sundays, Oct 7-Nov 25 11AM & 3PM Rocky Woods, Medfield Member Adult $5, Child FREE; Nonmember Adult $10, Child $5 (under 5 FREE)

Bird Park Trail Run & Obstacle Course

Saturday, Nov 3 | 9-11AM Francis William Bird Park, Walpole $25/Adult ($30 day of event); $5/child (Fun Run)

Blue Hills Great Estate Fall Foliage Tour

Saturday & Sunday, Nov 3 & 4 10AM-4PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member: $5; Nonmember: $10

Astronomy Night

Saturday, Nov 10 | 5-6:30PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $5, Family $15; Nonmember $10, Family $25

Remembering Armistice Day Woodland Walk

Monday, Nov 12 | 11AM-12Noon Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member & Nonmember FREE

Friday, Nov 16 | 5:30-7PM Notchview, Windsor Member & Nonmember FREE

Full Moon & Folklore Hike Friday, Nov 23 | 5:30-7:30PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $9; Nonmember $15

SPECIAL EVENTS Crane Art Show Soirée

Friday, Nov 2 | 7-10PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $68; Nonmember $85

Crane Estate Art Show & Sale: Earth, Wind, Fire & Water

Saturday & Sunday, Nov 3 & 4 10AM-4PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member & Nonmember FREE

Tri-Town Hike

Saturday, Nov 3 | 10AM-4PM Powisset Farm, Dover Adult $10; Child $5

Rooms in Bloom Preview Party

Friday, Nov 16 | 6-8PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $20; Trustees Members Only

Rooms in Bloom Open House Saturday, Nov 17 | 10AM-3PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $9; Nonmember $15

Tally Ho

Saturday, Nov 17 | 11AM-2PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member & Nonmember FREE

Concert of Thanks

Sunday, Nov 18 | 2-4PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $9; Nonmember $15

Castle Hill’s Christmas by the Sea

Friday, Nov 30 | 5-8PM Saturday, Dec 1 | 10AM-4PM Sunday, Dec 2 | 12Noon-4PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member Adult $10, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $20, Child $10; Ipswich resident $10 with proof of residency

Season Closing Celebration Saturday, Nov 3 | 3-5PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Museum Admission

Fruitlands Annual Bonfire Saturday, Nov 3 | 5-7PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member & Nonmember FREE

NON-SCARY HALLOWEEN SCARY HALLOWEEN

HOLIDAY WINTER BREAK

December CLASSES, WORKSHOPS & TALKS

Rare Book Talk & Appraisals with Kenneth Gloss

Mindfulness on the Farm

Wreaths of Christmas Legends

Thursdays | 6:45-7:15AM Powisset Farm, Dover Member FREE; Nonmember $5

Appleton Farms Cheese Making Intensive

Thursdays through Dec 20 11AM-4PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $160; Nonmember $200

Fresh, Fast & Delicious for Less w/ Project Bread

Thursdays | 11:45AM-12:30PM and 1-1:45PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member & Nonmember FREE

Market Test KITCHEN

Fridays through Dec 28 12Noon-1PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member & Nonmember FREE

Cultures to Rinds: Cheese Making Fundamentals Saturday, Dec 1 | 9:30-11:30AM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $60; Nonmember $75

Foraged Wreath Making

Saturday, Dec 1 | 10AM-2PM The FARM Institute & Long Point Wildlife Refuge, Martha’s Vineyard Member $15; Nonmember $25

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (with Wine!) Saturday, Dec 1 | 5-6:30PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $52; Nonmember $65

Wreaths & Wine Workshop

Saturday, Dec 1 | 5:30-7PM William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Member $24; Nonmember $30

Holiday Pampering: Natural Seasonal Spa Selections Sunday, Dec 2 | 2-4PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $60; Nonmember $75

Vegetarian for the Holidays Wednesday, Dec 5 | 6-8PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $52; Nonmember $65

Wednesday, Dec 5 | 6:30-8:30PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member & Nonmember FREE

Thursday, Dec 6 | 6:30-8:30PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member $60; Nonmember $75

KITCHEN Master Class: Steak Three Ways | Deluxe Class Saturdays, Dec 8 & 15 | 1-3PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $68; Nonmember $85

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: Athens vs. Santorini, Greece Sunday, Dec 9 | 1-3PM Saturday, Dec 15 | 5-7PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Gingerbread for Grownups

Sunday, Dec 9 | 3-6PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $80; Nonmember $100

Nella Pasta-Making Workshop

Sunday, Dec 9 | 4-6PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $52; Nonmember $65

Homesteader’s Holiday Craft Workshop at Weir River Farm Wednesday, Dec 12 | 3-5PM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member $10; Nonmember $15

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: All Food Leads to Rome Sunday, Dec 16 | 4-6PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

Sweet & Savory Pies

Tuesday, Dec 18 | 6-8:30PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member $60; Nonmember $75

Farm-to-KITCHEN Cooking Class: Autumn in New England Comfort Foods

Saturday & Sunday, Dec 22 & 23 1-3PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member $60; Nonmember $75

FAMILY FUN Bird Park Reindeer Quest

Daily | dawn-dusk Francis William Bird Park, Walpole Member & Nonmember FREE

Weir River Farm Reindeer Quest

Saturdays | 8AM-3PM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member & Nonmember FREE

Weir River Farm’s Annual Christmas Tree Sale Saturday & Sunday, Dec 1 & 2 10AM-2PM Weir River Farm, Hingham Activites are FREE to all. Trees are $75 for Members, $90 for Nonmembers

Truffle Making Workshop with Taza Chocolate (Family-Friendly)

Saturday, Dec 1 | 1-2PM Boston Public Market KITCHEN Member Adult $28, Child $28; Nonmember Adult $35, Child $35

Weir River Farm Winter Wreath Raising Festival

Saturday, Dec 1 | 1-5PM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member Adult $5, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $8, Child $8

The Farm Nisse: Holiday Celebration at Appleton Farms

Friday & Saturday, Dec 7 & 8 4:30-5:30PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Family $24; Nonmember Family $30

Notchview Christmas Tree Sale

Saturday, Dec 8 | 10AM-2PM Notchview, Windsor Member $30; Nonmember $35

Old-Fashioned Christmas

Saturdays & Sundays, Dec 8-16 1-7PM William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Member $5; Nonmember $10

Christmas at the Lighthouse Saturday, Dec 8 | 2-4PM Sunday, Dec 9 | 10AM-12NOON and 2-4PM Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, Martha’s Vineyard Member Adult $28, Child $16; Nonmember Adult $35, Child $20

Owl Prowl

Saturday, Dec 8 | 4-6pm Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member Adult $9; Nonmember Adult $15; Children FREE

Mytoi Illumination

Saturday & Sunday, Dec 8 & 9 6-8PM Mytoi, Martha’s Vineyard Member & Nonmember FREE

Presents for Pets

Sunday, Dec 9 | 2-4PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Child $44; Nonmember Child $55

Children’s Christmas Party

Tuesday, Dec 11 | 4-5:30PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member Child $24; Nonmember Child $30; Adults FREE

Autumn Barnyard Story Hour Wednesday, Dec 12 | 10-11AM Weir River Farm, Hingham Member Child $5; Nonmember Child $8; Adults FREE

Farm Felted Holiday Ornaments

Wednesday, Dec 12 | 3-4:30PM The FARM Institute, Edgartown Library, Edgartown Member & Nonmember FREE

Holiday Cookie Creations

Wednesday, Dec 12 | 3-5PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Child $36; Nonmember Child $45

Candlelit Holiday Open House

Friday- Sunday, Dec 14-16 | 5-8PM The Old Manse, Concord Member FREE, Family $10; Nonmember $5, Family $20

Gingerbread Farmer Decorating & Story Hour

Saturday, Dec 15 | 10-11AM and 1:30-2:30PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member Child $15; Nonmember Child $25

Old-Fashioned Farm Christmas

Saturday, Dec 15 | 12Noon-4PM The FARM Institute, Martha’s Vineyard Member Child $10; Nonmember Child $20

December Snow Globe Making

Saturday, Dec 15 | 1-3PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $5 per snow globe; Nonmember $10 per snow globe

New Year’s Resolution Scavenger Hunt

Daily, Dec 22-Jan 6 | 9AM-5PM The Stevens-Coolidge Place, North Andover Member & Nonmember FREE

Appleton Farms Grass Rides Reindeer Quest

Daily, Dec 24-Jan 2 | Dawn-Dusk Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member & Nonmember FREE

Saturday Storytime

Saturday, Dec 29 | 2-2:45PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Winter Admission

Gifts for the Birds

Sunday, Dec 30 | 1-3PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard FREE with Winter Admission

Lantern Walk

Christmas on Main Street

Thursday & Friday, Dec 27 & 28 4:30-6:30PM Bartholomew’s Cobble, Sheffield Member Adult $5; Nonmember Adult $10; Children FREE

Saturday, Dec 1 | 11AM-4PM Naumkeag, Stockbridge Member & Nonmember FREE

Owl Prowl

Saturday, Dec 1 | 12Noon-5PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member & Nonmember FREE

Snowman Olympics

Saturday & Sunday, Dec 29 & 30 1-3PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member Child FREE; Nonmember Child $5

Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, through Dec 23 | 4-8PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $5, Family $10; Nonmember $10, Family $20

Friday Night at the Castle

Fridays, Dec 7 & 14 | 5-8PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member Adult $10, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $20, Child $10

Holiday Castle Hill Tours

Wednesday-Sunday, Dec 26-30 10AM-4PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Prices vary per tour

Castle Hill’s Christmas by the Sea

Thursday-Sunday, Dec 27-30 11AM-3PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member Adult $15, Child $10; Nonmember Adult $25, Child $15

Friday, Dec 28 | 4-5:30PM Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate, Canton Member $5; Nonmember $10

Holly Days & Illumination Nights

SPECIAL EVENTS

Winter Garden Snowshoe

continued

Fruitlands Museum Holiday Open House

Roaring Twenties Cocktail Party

Saturday, Dec 1 | 6-10PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $76; Nonmember $95

SOLSTICE CELEBRATIONS Winter Solstice Stroll

Wednesday, Dec 19 | 6-8:30PM Ward Reservation, Andover & North Andover Member Adult $9, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $15, Child $10

Fruitlands Family Solstice Stroll

Thursday, Dec 20 | 4:30-6:30PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member Adult $9; Nonmember Adult $15; Children FREE

Fruitlands Solstice Stroll Thursday, Dec 20 | 7-9PM Fruitlands Museum, Harvard Member $9; Nonmember $15

Winter Solstice Walk

Friday, Dec 21 | 5-6:30PM Appleton Farms, Hamilton & Ipswich Member $8; Nonmember $10

Solstice Illumination Night

Friday, Dec 21 | 6-8PM Governor Hutchinson’s Field, Milton Member Adult $9, Child $3; Nonmember Adult $15, Child $5

Winter Solstice Celebration

Friday, Dec 21 | 6-7:30PM William Cullen Bryant Homestead, Cummington Suggested Donation $5

Solstice Dunes to Tavern Stroll

Friday, Dec 21 | 6-9PM Castle Hill on the Crane Estate, Ipswich Member $32; Nonmember $40

Solstice Fondue Dinner

Friday, Dec 21 | 6-8PM Powisset Farm, Dover Member Adult $40, Child $24; Nonmember Adult $50, Child $30

Winter Solstice Celebration with Musketaquid Arts and Environment © J. MONKMAN

Friday, Dec 21 | 6-9PM The Old Manse, Concord Member & Nonmember FREE

NON-SCARY HALLOWEEN SCARY HALLOWEEN

HOLIDAY WINTER BREAK

Ongoing MARTHA’S VINEYARD

CASTLE HILL ON THE CRANE ESTATE, IPSWICH

THE FOLLY AT FIELD FARM, WILLIAMSTOWN

CAPE POGE WILDLIFE REFUGE

Open Tuesdays–Sundays, through Oct 28 | 10AM-4PM (last tour at 3PM)

Mid-Century Modern Architecture Tour

Cape Poge Lighthouse Tour

Open Weekends, Nov 10-25 10AM-4PM (last tour at 3PM)

Daily through Oct 8 | 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 1PM, 2PM & 3PM (90 min. long) Member Adult $24; Child $12; Nonmember Adult $35; Child $18

NANTUCKET COSKATA-COATUE WILDLIFE REFUGE Natural History Tour

Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, & Saturdays, through Oct 8 9AM-12Noon & 1-3:30PM Member Adult $40, Child $20; Nonmember Adult $60, Child $30; Children 5 and under FREE

Open Wednesday-Sunday, Dec 2630 | 10AM-4PM (last tour at 3PM) Special Holiday Openings: Columbus Day, Veterans Day

Tour: Guest of the Cranes

Tuesdays–Sundays, through Oct 28 | 10AM-3PM (last tour at 3PM) Member $5; Nonmember $15

Tour: A Cupola with a View

Saturdays & Sundays, through Oct 28 | 11:30AM & 1:30PM Tuesdays-Fridays, through Oct 26 11:30AM Member $10; Nonmember $20

Highlights on the Hill: Castle Hill Estate Tour

Available year-round To schedule a private tour call 508.228.6799 $350 accommodates up to 8 people

Fridays, through Oct 26 1PM & 2PM Sundays & Saturdays, through Oct 28 | 12Noon, 1PM & 2PM Member $10; Nonmember $20

CAMPGROUNDS

Tour: Help Wanted—Becoming a Servant at Castle Hill

Private Tours

TULLY LAKE CAMPGROUND, ROYALSTON 2018 Camping Season: through October 21. For availability; Visit thetrustees.org/tully.

Welcome Fire & S’mores

Fridays, through Oct 19 | 6-8PM Member & Nonmember FREE

Saturday, Oct 13 | 10AM-1PM (Early Opening for Members at 9AM) Member & Nonmember FREE

Private Garden Tours

Available year-round upon request To schedule a private tour email Kristin at kmccullin@thetrustees.org $10 per person

Winter Season: Weekends, Nov 11-Dec 30 | 12Noon–5PM Member FREE; Nonmember $5; Children under age 6 FREE

Veterans Day Monday at Castle Hill

REI Outdoor School classes and outings combine professional instruction with hands-on practice in the field. Now you can try a new outdoor skill or adventure and enjoy your favorite Trustees property.

Monday, Nov 12 | 10AM-4PM Prices vary per tour; FREE for active/ retired military and their families

Friday Night at the Castle

Saturdays & Sundays, Dec 8-16 1-7PM Member: $5 Nonmember $10

Fall Plant Sale

REI Outdoor School

Monday, Oct 8 | 10AM-4PM Prices vary per tour

WILLIAM CULLEN BRYANT HOMESTEAD, CUMMINGTON

Old-Fashioned Christmas

Main Season: Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays, through Nov 4 10AM-4PM Weekends, through Nov 4 10AM-4PM Closed Tuesdays Members FREE; Nonmember Adult $15, Seniors (65+) and Students with valid student ID $12, Children 6-14 $6, under age 6 FREE; Trails/Grounds Only Adults $6, Children $3

ALLEN C. HASKELL PUBLIC GARDENS, NEW BEDFORD

Columbus Day at Castle Hill

From Grand Stairs to Back Stairs

Saturday & Sunday, Oct 6 & 7; Sunday, Oct 14; Saturday & Sunday, Oct 20 & Oct 21 11AM & 1PM Member FREE; Nonmember $10

FRUITLANDS MUSEUM, HARVARD

Tuesdays-Sundays, through Oct 25 | 2PM Member $10; Nonmember $20

HISTORIC HOUSE TOURS

William Cullen Bryant: Poet, Editor & Conservationist

Saturdays, Oct 6 & 13 | 1-2PM Member: $5; Nonmember: $10

CURRENT EXHIBITIONS AT FRUITLANDS MUSEUM: Leisure Pursuits, through March 2019 Inhabiting Folk Portraits, through March 2019 Eden 2.0, through Nov 18 A New View: Landscapes from the Permanent Collection, through Nov 5

Saturday, Nov 17 | 9AM-12Noon Member $24; Nonmember $30 Fridays, Dec 7 & 14 | 5-8PM Member Adult $10, Child $5; Nonmember Adult $20, Child $10

Holiday Tours

Wednesday-Sunday, Dec 26-30 10AM-4PM Prices vary per tour

Visit thetrustees.org/rei for a full class list.

Ongoing Programs continued NAUMKEAG, STOCKBRIDGE

THE OLD MANSE, CONCORD

Open Daily, through Oct 8 10AM-5PM

Open Daily, except Tuesdays, through Nov 4 | 12Noon-4PM

Nov 23–Dec 30: Gardens open for Winterlights Holiday Light Display

Open Saturday & Sunday, Nov 10 – December 30 | 12Noon-4PM

The Three Lives of Naumkeag: House Tour Daily, through Oct 8 | 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 12:30PM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM & 3:30PM Member FREE; Nonmember $20

Shaping a Landscape: Garden Tour of Naumkeag

Daily, through Oct 8 | 11AM, 1 PM & 3PM Member Adult $5; Nonmember Adult $5; Children FREE

A Gentleman’s Farm in the Berkshires: Farm Tour of Naumkeag Daily, through Oct 8 12Noon & 2PM Member $5; Nonmember $5

Winterlights at Naumkeag

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Nov 23-Dec 30 | 5-8PM Member Adult $12; Nonmember Adult $17; Children 12 and under FREE

Special Holiday Openings: Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day

Tour: Home to Two Revolutions

Daily, except Tuesdays, through Nov 4 | 12Noon, 1PM, 2PM & 3PM Saturdays & Sundays, Nov 10-Dec 30 | 12Noon, 1PM, 2PM & 3PM Member FREE; Nonmember Adult $10, Student/Senior $9, Child $5

Tour: Highlights of the Old Manse

Daily, except Tuesdays, through Nov 4 12:30PM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM & 3:30PM Saturdays & Sundays, Nov 10-Dec 30 | 12:30PM, 1:30PM, 2:30PM & 3:30PM Member FREE; Nonmember Adult $5; Child FREE

Rooted in the Land: Outdoor Exploration of the Old Manse Daily, except Tuesdays, through Nov 4 | 3-4PM Member FREE; Nonmember Adult $10, Student/Senior $9, Child $5;

Creative Lives, Artistic Passion: Women of The Old Manse

Daily, except Tuesdays, through Nov 4 | 1-2PM Member FREE; Nonmember Adult $10, Student/Senior $9, Child $5;

Winterlights at The StevensCoolidge Place

Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays, Nov 29-Dec 30 | 5-8PM Member Adult $12; Nonmember Adult $17; Children 12 and under FREE

Columbus Day at The Old Manse

Monday, Oct 8 | 11AM-5PM FREE for Middlesex County residents

Veterans Day at The Old Manse

Sunday & Monday, Nov 11 & 12 12Noon-4PM FREE for veterans and active duty military and their families

Post-Thanksgiving Tours

Saturday & Sunday, Nov 24 & 25 | 12Noon, 12:30PM, 1PM, 1:30PM, 2PM, 2:30PM, 3PM & 3:30PM Member FREE, Family $5; Nonmember $10, Child $5, Family $20, Student/Senior $9

THE STEVENS-COOLIDGE PLACE, NORTH ANDOVER Open House

Saturday, Oct 20 | 10AM-2PM Member $5; Nonmember $10; Children 13 and under FREE

PROGRAM REFUNDS/CANCELLATIONS: In the event that a program is cancelled due to severe weather, low enrollment, or other circumstances, we will notify you as soon as possible by email and issue you a full refund within 14 days of the cancellation. If you cannot attend a program as planned, contact the Trustees property 7 days prior to the start of the program to receive a full refund. Refunds will not be granted for registration cancellations placed fewer than 7 days before the start of the program. There are no refunds for missed classes. The Trustees reserves the right to change program locations, schedules, or instructors when necessary. Note: Summer Camps and our inns and campgrounds each have separate cancellation policies.

A spectacular array of shimmering lights will illuminate the gardens at The Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover and Naumkeag in Stockbridge. Open Thursday–Sunday evenings, Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve. See website for details. advance tickets:

thetrustees.org/winterlights

NON-SCARY HALLOWEEN SCARY HALLOWEEN

HOLIDAY WINTER BREAK

and The Stevens-Coolidge Place in North Andover. Winterlights presents a spectacular array of shimmering lights that will illuminate the houses and their iconic gardens on weekends between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve. Revel in the season with music, tours, and festive winter warmers amid sparkling displays that will rival the stars. Check thetrustees.org/winterlights for updated schedules, programs, special appearances, and more, as the holidays approach. SHORT DAY, LONG PLAY

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 FARM TO FORK

Trustees kitchens are hopping this fall, with heaping portions of cooking classes, plus several farm-to-table events are happening— and all will delight your palate. Up at one of the oldest continuously working farm in the country—Appleton Farms in Hamilton & Ipswich—there are ongoing Cheese Making Intensives running on Thursdays through the fall, and gingerbread is on the table for both adults (Gingerbread for Grownups on Sunday, December 9) and families (Gingerbread Farmer Decorating & Story Hour on Saturday, December 15) for the holidays. And don’t miss Appleton’s celebration of 20 years as a Trustees property, with a special Farm-to-Table Dinner at Appleton Farms on Thursday, October 11. In Boston, at the KITCHEN at Boston Public Market, check out Baking School: Essential Breads with Chef Cleo (pictured, above), every other Sunday

afternoon through the fall. Among dozens of other popular classes at the Market are the Farm-to-KITCHEN cooking series featuring Greek food, Italian food, or the local favorite New England Comfort Food (check the website, as these classes are offered on various weekend dates throughout the fall.) And at Powisset Farm in Dover, take a Culinary Tour of China with a series of classes on select Thursday evenings in October and November. Then get ready for the holidays with Vegetarian for the Holidays on Wednesday, December 5, or Sweet & Savory Pies on Tuesday, December 18. The Bryant Homestead in Cummington also has a special table being set for you, with their Dinner in the Barn: Farm-to-Table Meal with Wheelhouse & The Trustees on Saturday, October 20. DAZZLING DISPLAYS

New this year are two glittering illumination events, at Naumkeag in Stockbridge,

The shortest day of the year brings some of the season’s most entertaining happenings, as we celebrate the beginning of the slow march to the return of the sun’s warmth come spring. Start the party early on Thursday, December 20 with several Fruitlands Solstice Strolls, and a Winter Solstice Stroll at the Ward Reservation in Andover & North Andover. Then on Friday evening, December 21, escape the holiday frenzy with Solstice Illumination Night at Governor Hutchinson’s Field in Milton, a Winter Solstice Celebration with Musketaquid Arts and Environment at The Old Manse in Concord, a Solstice Dunes to Tavern Stroll at Castle Hill on the Crane Estate in Ipswich, or a grand Winter Solstice Celebration at the William Cullen Bryant Homestead in Cummington. These are just a smattering of things going on this fall: we’ve also got Halloween Howls and Owl Prowls, Harvest Fests and Reindeer Quests, hikes at night and races by day, wreath making, cookie baking, concerts, art shows... you name it! Our Things To Do calendar contains listings of all the events, programs, tours, and activities going on this fall at a Trustees reservation near you. Make sure to visit the Events section of our website at thetrustees.org/things-to-do for the full list and the latest scheduling updates. And then head out and harvest the bounty of fun!

FALL 2018

ECOLOGY UPDATE

Revealing Nature

Every time Trustees takes on a new reservation, staff specialists conduct an assessment of the site’s ecology—including its flora and fauna, as well as habitat types and conditions—in order to establish a baseline record to compare against as time progresses and to identify habitats and species that may need to be managed or restored. The FARM Institute (TFI) on Martha’s Vineyard became a Trustees-managed site in 2016,

Grasshopper Sparrow (Ammodramus Savannarum)

and our Ecology team completed a full assessment earlier this year, with some unexpected results.

Focusing on the conditions of TFI’s more than 160 acres of pasture, the ecologists found a healthy population of singing Savannah sparrows, obligate grassland nesting birds that we expect to do well at TFI. But the assessment also revealed some striking findings among the birds and plants in the pasture. They were surprised and excited to discover at least two, maybe more, singing male Grasshopper Sparrows, a species that is threatened in Massachusetts. In fact, the TFI population is the only known population on Martha’s Vineyard currently. Historically, Grasshopper Sparrows nested at the

THE TRUSTEES

adjacent Katama Airport, but they have not been recorded there since 2005. Their presence at TFI hopefully signifies a return of the species to Katama Plains, the largest remnant of sandplain grassland on Martha’s Vineyard and a site of global importance. As Trustees seeks to use livestock grazing as a tool for improving both the pasture and habitat conditions at the farm, it is particularly exciting that the current grazing by the cattle and sheep is producing the habitat conditions needed by the sparrows. In addition to the birds, Ecology staff found a population of Sandplain Blue-eyed Grass—a member of the iris family and not actually a grass at all—along the pasture boundary. This is a grassland Species of Special Concern in Massachusetts that is provided regulatory protection under the Massachusetts Endangered Species Act similar to the Grasshopper Sparrow, and the ecologists will be looking into how management can be adapted to benefit it. Equally exciting is the Grasshopper Sparrow

Sandplain Blue-eyed Grass (Sisyrinchium fuscatum)

abundant milkweed found throughout the pastures. Both common milkweed and the ‘uncommon’ orange milkweed, or butterflyweed, are abundant and attract pollinators including native bees and monarch butterflies by the hundreds. Coastal habitats like TFI are especially important to monarchs as they migrate to Mexico in the fall. As a result of these findings, Trustees Ecology, Agriculture, and FARM Institute staff are now creating plans for ways to manage the pastures more sustainably and improve conditions for both habitat and agricultural productivity. “We are thrilled to find that grazing and habitat can be compatible,” says Russ Hopping, The Trustees’ Director of Ecology. “Assessment results will help us determine updates to pasture management practices, which in turn will improve pollinator and bird habitat while maintaining a successful grazing program at the same time.”

Interns from the Norfolk Aggie Environmental Science program participated in stewardship projects at thirteen Trustees reservations this summer, including the Eleanor Cabot Bradley Estate in Canton (above and left), Rocky Woods in Medfield (below left), and the Lyman Reserve in Buzzards Bay (below right). Aggie Instructor John Lee joined the group photo, above right.

Building THE TRUSTEES

OF THE FUTURE When did you discover what you wanted to be? In May and June of this year, thirteen juniors from the Norfolk County Agricultural High School in Walpole (“the Aggie”) were given a thrilling opportunity to do just that, thanks to a new joint program with The Trustees. Members of the school’s first class to graduate with a newly added major in Environmental Science, the students took part in an inaugural internship co-developed by the Aggie and The Trustees, designed to expose them to a broad variety of property types—historical landscapes, woodlands, a working farm, a museum, and public gardens—as well as management strategies, stewardship conditions, and conservation skills. The program is an example of how The Trustees’ goals to get more kids

High School Students Learn Stewardship Skills through New Internship

outside and to foster the next generation of land stewards and conservationists are being realized. Over the course of five weeks the Environmental Science students visited thirteen Trustees locations, where they worked alongside Trustees stewardship and horticultural staff and were exposed to some of the many unique management strategies required to balance resource protection with public access and engagement. In one instance, students spent three days at Rocky Woods in Medfield where they participated in trail maintenance duties, installed signage, and assisted in installing a new culvert under a beaver dam. Other experiences included learning about operating a working farm within the framework of a conservation mission at Weir River Farm in Hingham and tending an historic garden at The Old Manse in Concord.

On the final day of their internship students gave a presentation summarizing their experience to the program’s instructors and Trustees staff. They described how they particularly enjoyed visiting Fruitlands Museum in Harvard, electrofishing at the Lyman Reserve in Buzzards Bay, and their service work at Rocky Woods. Aggie Instructor John Lee, who first proposed the program, reports that students “were amazed at the diversity of the properties the Trustees manage” and that they now “have a greater appreciation of sustainability in our communities because of the organization’s work.” He also reports that several of the participants have said in the future they would like to work for The Trustees or similar organizations. Both the Aggie and The Trustees termed the internship a great success and are hoping to expand the program in future years.

FALL 2018

Hit the

Mountain biking yields deeper connections to the outdoors

TRAIL RIDING BY JEFF HARDER

In a part of the Commonwealth where mountain biking trails are scarce, Brooks Woodland Preserve in Petersham is a 13-anda-half-mile oasis. Wide carriage roads and easy single-track routes wind over sturdy bridges and past old stone foundations, an ultra-serene landscape with little elevation gain that compels riders to hit the brakes and revel in silence beneath the oaks and hemlocks. It’s a beautiful, well maintained property, says Brett Russ, president of the Wachusett chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA), an advocacy organization with some 7,000 members around the region. It’s also a destination that illustrates how mountain biking can create deeper connections to the world outside. “In order for people to care about something, they need to feel invested in it,” Russ says. “Mountain biking brings people into this environment and builds an appreciation for flora, fauna, and adventure that only the outdoors can provide.” Mountain biking—the breed of cycling in which riders pedal thick-tired bikes along undulating trails, rutty fire roads, and other off-road terrain—is deep into a renaissance. Some 8.3 million people went mountain biking in 2016, according to the most recent figures from nonprofit The Outdoor Foundation, marking a third straight year of ridership growth. Locally, Russ has seen membership in his NEMBA chapter blossom as well. And while maneuvering the Commonwealth’s rocky, rooty terrain can demand a veteran’s

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savvy, Trustees-maintained trails throughout the state welcome cyclists logging their first miles off of asphalt. “Our properties aren’t seen as intimidating—they’re usually right-in-your-backyard kinds of places,” says Brian Westrick, Trails Team Manager for The Trustees and an avid mountain biker himself. “If we can create experiences that are welcoming, user friendly, and open to beginning mountain bikers right off the bat, we can expose people to a different type of recreation.” IT TAKES ALL KINDS

Mountain biking is calibrated to virtually every personality—contemplative introverts, coffee-hour chatterboxes, thrill-seeking athletes, and low-key dawdlers. And while stereotypes of adrenaline junkies leaping off cliffs are hard to erase, entry-level mountain biking might as well be hiking’s two-wheeled sibling: in fact, a range of independent studies have found the environmental impact of conscientious mountain biking on par with hiking. And the pace—brisker than walking, slower than gas-powered travel—allows riders to cover dozens of miles without reducing the panorama to an inscrutable blur. “You can actually see more while mountain biking than if you were just hiking or jogging,” says Tom O’Shea, The Trustees’ Program Director for Coast and Natural Resources, who rides at least twice a week. “You’re moving faster, but it becomes almost meditative in a way. It takes your mind off of other concerns and distractions, and you’re focused on the present moment.”

NOANET WOODLANDS DOVER

WHITNEY & THAYER WOODS HINGHAM & COHASSET

Beyond Brooks Woodland Preserve, The Trustees has a range of properties suited to novice and intermediate mountain bikers. In metro Boston, Noanet Woodlands in Dover offers three main double-wide trails of mostly easy grades that wind past ponds and geologic features across nearly 600 acres. The property connects to Hale Reservation, whose trails combine to offer Noanet visitors a 20-mile ride. “There are quite a few cart paths, but there also areas where you can challenge yourself on single-track and rocky terrain,” Westrick says. Whitney & Thayer Woods in Hingham & Cohasset is a variation on the same theme: a 10-mile blend of wide carriage roads and single-track connects to Wompatuck State Park, enabling cyclists to turn lunch-hour excursions into all-afternoon outings. On the North Shore, 10 miles of largely single-track trail course through the fields and grasslands of Ward Reservation in Andover, an intermediate-to-challenging slice of terrain punctuated by three hills; seeing the Boston skyline from 420-foot Holt Hill is an entrancing reward for the climb that precedes it. Outdoor equipment retailer REI recently awarded The Trustees a grant to fund a trail renovation at Ward Reservation geared toward beginning and intermediate mountain bikers, a project that will likely come to fruition later this year and involve smoothing out terrain and improving river crossings. “This will be a great introduction to the property,

and since the rest of the property is also open to mountain biking but can be a little more advanced, [visitors] can go beyond here as they get better,” Westrick says.

WARD RESERVATION ANDOVER & NORTH ANDOVER

HOP ON, RIDE OFF

For hikers and runners interested in crossing over, the only requisite equipment is a mountain bike and a helmet. Regardless of experience level, Westrick reiterates the value of mountain biking etiquette: keep off trails during the muddy spring to prevent tires from digging ruts, avoid cutting new trails and disturbing sensitive vegetation, and yield to walkers, hikers, and horseback riders. “We want to create a culture that’s welcoming for everybody, including mountain bikers, and where everyone can coexist on our trails,” he says. Over time, a passion for mountain biking tends to foster passion for land conservation, too. “I see mountain bikers joining town trail, conservation, and open space committees; helping put on charitable events; and always willing to volunteer,” says Russ, the NEMBA Wachusett chapter president. And they all started the same way: they found a trailhead, hopped in the saddle, and enjoyed the ride. Visit nemba.org to find upcoming group rides, skill clinics, and trail-adjacent bike shops, and check thetrustees.org for mountain biking opportunities on Trustees trails.

RAVENSWOOD PARK GLOUCESTER

BROOKS WOODLAND PRESERVE PETERSHAM

Jeff Harder is a freelance writer and editor who lives in New England. WHITNEY & THAYER WOODS FALL 2018 25 © JASON CAMERON HINGHAM & COHASSET

WHERE WONDER HAPPENS

Special Anniversaries for Some Very Special Places Old Town Hill Greenwood Farm Hamlin Reservation Stavros Reservation THE CRANE ESTATE Castle Hill Crane Beach Crane Wildlife Refuge Halibut Point

ack R i ver im

1968 and 1993 were momentous years for open space protection in Massachusetts, as nine properties became Trustees reservations—four were protected 50 years ago this year, and five more were saved 25 years ago. Help us celebrate their noteworthy anniversaries this year; fall is the perfect time for a visit to these inspiring places. M

Mission House

Monument Mountain Ashley House

Petticoat Hill

Goose Pond

I-90

Swift River Reservation

Dinosaur Footprints Land of Providence

Dry Hill Questing Bartholomew’s Cobble

Springfield Peaked Mountain

Rte 9

Worcester I-90

I-9 0

ke sP i Ma s

Quinebaug Woods

Moraine Farm

Malcolm Preserve

Chestnut Hill Farm

Long Hill

I- 9 5

Misery Islands Crowninshield Island

Charl e s Riv e r

BOSTON REGION

Boston

I-90

Pierce Reservation World’s End Weir River Farm

Gov. Hutchinson’s Field RESERVATIONS IN THE CHARLES RIVER VALLEY

Cormier Woods

Mount Ann Park Ravenswood Park Coolidge Reservation Agassiz Rock

Pine and Hemlock Knoll

Old Manse

Dexter Drumlin e2 Rt

Rock House Reservation

McLennan Reservation

Fruitlands Museum

Brooks Woodland Preserve 0

Quabbin Reservoir

Little Tom Mountain

Tyringham Cobble Ashintully Gardens

Mount Warner

95 I -4

I-95

Glendale Falls

I-91

Chesterfield Gorge

Redemption Rock

I-3 95

Chapel Brook

Elliott Laurel North Common Meadow

I-19

I-84

Rte 112

C o n n e c t i cu t

Rte 8 7 Rte

Bear’s Den

Tully LakeRtCampground e2

I- 93

R i ve r

Bullitt Reservation

Rte 128

Ward Reservation Doyle Community Park Farandnear

Bryant Homestead

Stevens-Coolidge Place

Doane’s Falls

Rte

Bear Swamp

Notchview

Naumkeag

Jacobs Hill

Rte 2

Appleton Farms Grass Rides Appleton Farms I-95

Royalston Falls

Field Farm

Weir Hill

Whitney and Thayer Woods

Bradley Estate

Francis William Bird Park

Norris Reservation

Signal Hill Archives & Research Center Moose Hill Farm

Two Mile Farm Dunes’ Edge Campground

I-95

Mountain Meadow Preserve

Tantiusques

Rt e

24 Rte

Gov. Oliver Ames Estate

Holmes Reservation

I-295 I-4 95

PROTECTED IN 1968

Rte

50th Anniversary in 2018

Cape Cod Bay

14 0

Lyman Reserve

East Over Reservation

East Over: Hales Brook and Sippican River Tract

Copicut Woods

Rte 6

Lowell Holly

Allen C. Haskell Public Gardens

I-19 5

Mashpee River Reservation

Cornell Farm

Westport Town Farm

Nantucket Sound

Slocum’s River Reserve

Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge Mytoi

Menemsha Hills Long Point Wildlife Refuge

Wasque

Norton Point Beach The FARM Institute

BEAR SWAMP, ASHFIELD Concerned that Ashfield’s growth would spell an end to its wild places, Bear Swamp’s original acreage was gifted by Rev. Philip and Mrs. Esther Steinmetz in 1968. The property is home to a beaver pond, fern glades, views of hillside orchards, and fields that host a myriad of bird species.

THE TRUSTEES

BEAR’S DEN, NEW SALEM A short steep walk leads to an enchanting waterfall at the bottom of a secluded gorge, or take a ramble along a stream to an historic mill site. Named for a black bear that was shot on the property, the original parcel of land was a bequest of Mrs. Grais Poole Burrage in 1968.

MEDFIELD MEADOW LOTS, MEDFIELD These three ecologically diverse parcels totaling 16 acres were gifted by Henry L. Shattuck in 1968. Visible by canoe or kayak, the three meadows within the Charles River floodplain help protect key areas of freshwater marshland in this critical watershed protection zone.

Coskata-Coatue Wildlife Refuge

PROTECTED IN 1993

25th Anniversary in 2018 RAVENSWOOD PARK, GLOUCESTER In the late 19th century, businessman and philanthropist Samuel Sawyer purchased 26 parcels of woodlots, old pastures and swamps near his home to be turned into a park; the 600 acres was gifted to The Trustees in 1993 by The Trustees of Ravenswood Park. 10 miles of carriage paths and trails meander through the park in a landscape of shrouded hemlock groves, the Great Magnolia Swamp, fern-covered boulders, and remnants of Colonial habitation.

WEIR HILL, NORTH ANDOVER Named for the fish weirs that were once used by indigenous Americans, the original portion of Weir Hill was a gift of the Estate of Abbot Stevens in 1968. Four miles of trails trace the western shoreline of sparkling Lake Cochichewick or ascend up the spine of Weir Hill to a scenic overlook of the Merrimack Valley.

CHASE WOODLANDS, DOVER Once a family’s cherished preserve, the original Chase Woodlands acreage was a gift of Theodore and Dorothea Chase in 1993. Now 2.5 miles of trails meander through 85 acres of white pine, beech, hemlock, and yellow birch groves. Stone walls traverse the woods, and an open understory makes exploring easy for kids.

HAMLIN RESERVATION, IPSWICH A 135-acre bequest of Octavia Hamlin in 1993, this former coastal farmland now welcomes visitors to a broad salt marsh and causeway path that leads to a loop trail around Eagle Island. The remote backside of the island overlooks extensive open marshland where you can watch egrets and glossy ibis fish in one of the least disturbed parts of the entire 25,000-acre Great Marsh.

ROCK HOUSE RESERVATION, WEST BROOKFIELD This 196-acre property was anonymously given in 1993 in memory of William Adams, whose family tended this land for more than 125 years, and features more than 3 miles of trails and woods roads. This glacial landscape includes impressive boulders and rock outcrops nestled among expanses of wildflowers, hardwood forests, and pine groves.

TWO MILE FARM, MARSHFIELD Founded in 1640 by the Hatch family and gifted to The Trustees by Mrs. Gail E. Whelan in 1993, the 68-acre Two Mile Farm gets its name from rights granted to the Town of Scituate to harvest salt hay “two miles along the river and half a mile inland on each side.” One mile of cart paths and foot trails lead through resurgent woodlands and past stone walls to the broad meadows of the North River.

FALL 2018

ICYMI #THETRUSTEES

You tag us. We

you!

@bluebannerphoto

“I cannot endure to waste anything so precious as autumnal sunshine by staying in the house.” - Nathaniel Hawthorne

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make a difference Founders Circle members are vitally important partners in ensuring The Trustees continues to grow and thrive. Join this network of friends and support The Trustees’ mission to protect and share our special places across Massachusetts. Through annual giving of $1,000 or more (just $84 a month,) you’ll receive special invitations to interact with our expert staff, plus private tours of reservations, fantastic events, and more!

The Trustees is Massachusetts’ largest, and the nation’s first, conservation and preservation nonprofit. We are supported by members, friends, and donors. Explore 117 amazing places across Massachusetts, from beaches, farms and woodlands, to historic homes, urban gardens and more. Barbara J. Erickson President & CEO Joanna Ballantine Vice President, Western Region Jocelyn Forbush Chief, Operations & Programs Alicia Leuba Vice President, Eastern Region Matthew Montgomery Chief Marketing Officer Ann Tikkanen Chief, Finance & Administration Edward Wilson Chief, Development & Enterprise editorial Wayne Wilkins Director of Marketing and Communications design Liz Agbey Lisa Rowe Foulger Senior Designer Matthew Mullin Graphic Designer

We invite your input, letters, and suggestions. Please send them to: Special Places | The Trustees 200 High Street, 4th Floor Boston, MA 02110 tel 978.921.1944 email marketing@thetrustees.org For information about becoming a member please contact us at 978.921.1944, email us at membership@thetrustees.org, or visit our website at www.thetrustees.org. Special Places, Fall 2018. Volume 26, Issue Number 3. Special Places (ISSN 1087-5026) is published quarterly and distributed to members and donors of The Trustees of Reservations. Copyright © 2018. All rights reserved.

Printed by Universal Wilde, an environmentally responsible printer in Massachusetts that strives to minimize waste, maximize recycling, and exceed environmental standards.

We count on your generous support to make our work possible. Join the Circle today: thetrustees.org/founderscircle

save paper– go digital! We hope you are enjoying receiving and reading Special Places! Did you know that every issue is available as an interactive PDF publication on our website? Help us save paper and postage costs! If you prefer to read the digital version instead of in print, we’ll be happy to send an email when each issue is available— usually 2-3 weeks before the print edition would normally arrive in the mail.

#thetrustees | A big Thank You to our Instagram followers who allowed us to print their fall photos, including: @annieops, @jschleyjohnson, @bluebannerphoto, @hereisnowhereinparticular, @theresaseelye, @FarmerDes, and @drivinmissdavis.

FALL 2018 29

THE TRUSTEES

200 High Street, 4th Floor Boston, MA 02110-3044

EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Data Driven

©TRUSTEES

BC4

THE TRUSTEES

As a boy, Trustees’ GIS Manager Vin Antil would visit Glendale Falls in Middlefield, plunging into the brisk water to beat the heat. It didn’t occur to him then that this beautiful spot was a Trustees property, nor could he imagine that one day he would be instrumental in the measurement and evaluation of nearly every aspect of the organization’s work. Vin came to The Trustees in 1998 from Mass Fish and Wildlife, armed with undergrad degrees in history and geography and a graduate degree in regional planning. He made it his mission to bolster The Trustees’ capabilities in Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping. A “Swiss Army knife” of standards and measurement, Vin’s database work enables Trustees teams to gather and report on the data required to protect and maintain our properties. Visiting one of our historic homes? Vin built the database that helps curators track and measure temperature and humidity levels, keeping collections safe from damage. Spotted a New England Cottontail? Vin created a tool to analyze the vulnerable rabbit’s habitat requirements, enabling our Ecology team to keep tabs on the condition of its population. Hiking our reservations? You have Vin to thank for charting the trail maps. Vin likes to say, “I have my nose in everyone’s business.” We wouldn’t have it any other way, and we couldn’t do it without him—which is why Vin Antil is The Trustees’ 2018 Employee of the Year.

thetrustees.org