2013 Calendar
2013 Master Gardener Series
This exciting program series is presented by the Sullivan County Master Gardeners in conjunction with the UNH Extension Service and is open to all. Attend one, all seven, or something in between. LEARN MORE…
Out and About for Preschoolers: A Visit to the Fairy Village
Saturday, May 18, 11am-noon
Walk to the Fairy Village and create your own original fairy house. Leader Lawre Goodnow will read a story and provide special materials to enhance your fairy house. This excursion takes participants further down the path to investigate the magic and mystery of nature. Member child and care givers free, nonmember children $5. Advance registration required. Made possible by grants from the Lincoln Financial Foundation and the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation’s Wellborn Ecology Fund.
Opening Reception for Members and Guests
Friday, May 24, 5-7pm
Celebrate the opening of our 2013 season with Fells members and their guests. Catch up with fellow Fells supporters and participate in our Pebble Court Stonewall and Veranda restoration ribbon cutting ceremony! We also open two new art exhibits—Art in Nature 2013 outdoor sculpture and The Art of Nature in New Hampshire and Vermont. Come together with the artists and watch them demonstrate their art. Complimentary light hors d’oeuvres and wine bar. Reserve online or call 603-763-4789 x3 no later than May 20.
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens
The Fells Main House Commences Spring Hours
Now open Saturdays, Sundays and Monday Holidays, 10am-4pm, May 25 through June 16. Discover what life was like on an early 20th century New Hampshire summer estate. Take an historic guided tour of the 22-room Colonial Revival Main House, explore the renowned gardens, build a fairy house in the children’s Fairy Village and experience the natural world on an easy hike along one our scenic trails. Members free, nonmembers $10; discounts for seniors, students and families.
The Art of Nature in New Hampshire and Vermont
Saturday, May 25 through Sunday, July 21Main House Gallery, open during Main House hours
This all new art exhibit is a creatively diverse, juried show of art and sculpture that celebrates the flora, fauna and natural designs of New Hampshire and beyond. Presented by the New Hampshire Art Association, New England Sculptors Association and other professional artists throughout the region. Opening reception for Fells members and guests, Friday, May 24, 5-7pm.
Art in Nature–2013
Saturday, May 25 through Monday, October 14
Find sculpture nestled throughout The Fells gardens, woodlands and meadows. This inspiring all new show curated by Janet Miller Haines promises to please! Opening reception for Fells members and guests, Friday, May 24, 5-7pm.
By His Side: President Abraham Lincoln and John Hay
Saturday, May 25 through Monday, October 14, open during Main House Hours
At age 22, John Hay was a graduate at Brown University, clerking in his uncle’s law office in Springfield, Illinois. Across the hall was attorney and politician Abraham Lincoln, who later hired him as his private secretary in the White House. This exhibit explores Hay’s relationship with the U.S. President during that critical period in our nation’s history. Historical images, records and objects from The Fells and other collections provide the documentation.
Community Gardens: A Resource for All
Thursday, June 6, 1-2pm
A community garden is wherever “a community of people joins together to garden”—a shared green space planned and maintained by community members for the use and enjoyment of all. We will explore community garden designs and the creation of a few local community gardens. Master Gardener Kit Hawkins is joined by Jan Lambert, editor of The Valley Green Journal which fosters caring communities based on sustainable agriculture and wise environmental stewardship. Sponsored by the Sullivan County Master Gardeners in conjunction with the UNH Cooperative Extension. Requested donation $10 to benefit The Fells. Advance registration required by May 31. Meets at The Fells Gatehouse Classroom.
In the Company of Light: Readings from the Works of Naturalist John Hay & Picnic on Sunset Hill
Saturday, June 8, 10am-2pm
Naturalist John Hay was fond of hiking the hills of New Hampshire. Join Dave Anderson—Education Director of the Society for the Protection of the New Hampshire Forests—for a sweet hike to spectacular views from the summit of Sunset Hill, ancestral Hay family picnic spot. Dave will read passages from John Hay’s writings inspired by his boyhood at The Fells, Lake Sunapee and his times exploring the farms of the former Hay Estate (now comprising both The Fells and the Forest Society Hay Forest Reservation). Kitty Hay (John’s daughter) will accompany the group to talk about her father’s philosophy and her own personal experiences with both her father and grandmother, Alice Appleton Hay. A comfortable, leisurely pace on a moderate, 2.4-mile round-trip hike that gains 550 feet to the summit. BYO picnic lunch. Co-sponsored by the Society for the Protection of NH Forests and The Fells. Fells and SPNHF members $10, nonmembers $15. Advance registration required by May 31. Supported by grants from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation’s Wellborn Ecology Fund, and the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Storytelling in Three Dimensions: The Art of Living History
Tuesday, June 11, 6-8pm
From Jamestown to World War II, the periods of American history are well represented by theatrical reprisors who don the clothing and mannerisms of an era to provide exciting first-person perspectives to modern audiences. Dwight Wilder, a local portrayer of Theodore Roosevelt, shares perspectives and techniques from twenty years of re-enactment, and shows how to be convincing, informative, and entertaining while remaining in one’s character. Members $5, nonmembers $10. Advance registration required by June 4.
22nd Annual Plant Sale
Saturday, June 15, 9:30am-noon (Early bird for members, 8:30-9:30am)
Buy quality, well established plants and shrubs propagated and field dug from The Fells very own gardens as well as plants from the finest regional nurseries. Get expert advice from Fells and Master Gardeners and watch planting demonstrations. Unique garden art from Sugar Plum also available. Huge savings at our close-out Shop Table. Members, get your 10% plant discount coupons at our Member Table. Not a member? Join or renew! Held in The Fells Gatehouse Courtyard.
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens
The Fells Main House Commences Summer Hours
Now open Wednesday through Sunday and Monday Holidays, 10am-4pm, May June 19 through September 2. Discover what life was like on an early 20th century New Hampshire summer estate. Take an historic guided tour of the 22-room Colonial Revival Main House, explore the renowned gardens, build a fairy house in the children’s Fairy Village and experience the natural world on an easy hike along one our scenic trails. Members free, nonmembers $10; discounts for seniors, students and families.
Indoor and Outdoor Herb Gardening
Thursday, June 20, 1-2pm
Parsley, sage, rosemary and thyme are the lyrics of an herb garden. Master Gardener Marilyn Hill will share tips and techniques for growing herbs from windowsill herb gardens to expansive outdoor herb garden designs, as well as tips for using herbs for cooking, health, beauty and medicinal purposes. Get fresh ideas for layout and design, tips for planting and propagation and a brief history of herbs and spices. Sponsored by the Sullivan County Master Gardeners in conjunction with the UNH Cooperative Extension. Requested donation $10 to benefit The Fells. Advance registration required by June 14. Meets at The Fells Gatehouse Classroom.
The Nature of Lake Sunapee by Canoe or Kayak: A Guided Tour
Saturday, June 22, 10am-2pm
Our perspective on nature changes dramatically when viewed from the seat of a canoe or kayak. Dip your paddle into the beautiful waters of Lake Sunapee with co-leaders LSPA Education Director Kathleen Stowell and The Fells Education Director Michael Caduto, as we explore the nature of the lake and shoreline, including bird life, botany and lake ecology. All children must be accompanied by at least one parent/guardian. Dress for the weather and BYO canoe or kayak! Life vests (PFD’s) required. Advance registration required by June 14. Adults $10, children $5. To register, or for more information, call 603.763.2210. Meet at 9:30am in the parking lot behind the Lake Sunapee Protective Association’s Knowlton House, 63 Main Street, Sunapee.
A History of John Hay
Thursday, June 27, 7-8:30pm
Who was John Hay, and what were his notable accomplishments as a renowned statesman and author of the late 19th and early 20th centuries? Fells board member David Bashaw has studied, written about, and presented programs on the illustrious founder of The Fells. Come hear Hay’s fascinating story—complete with humorous and poignant quotes and anecdotes. Questions and discussion will follow David’s presentation. Fells Members free, nonmembers pay site admission. No registration required. Meets at The Fells Gatehouse classroom. Made possible with support from the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Celebration of the 175th Birthday of John Milton Hay
Sunday, June 30, 4-9pm
Happy Birthday John Milton Hay! Join us for this gala birthday reception and patriotic dinner to celebrate the 175th anniversary of Hay’s birth. President Abraham Lincoln—portrayed by Steve Wood—makes a surprise visit to The Fells to wish his private secretary (Hay)—portrayed by reprisor Jerry Carrier—a glorious birthday. Mingle with Hay and Lincoln over cocktails, savor an elegant three course meal served under a tent on the beautiful Rose Terrace, and listen to the fascinating history of their time together in office. Members $85, nonmembers $100. Limited reservations, reserve online or by calling 603-763-4789 x3 no later than June 24.
About the reprisors.
John Hay look-alike Jerry Carrier, an actor and Civil War scholar who grew up in Bedford, 35 miles from Hay’s birth place in Salem IN, portrays our noted diplomat and man of letters. Carrier is a graduate of the former Bedford High School and a 35 year veteran in journalism, beginning with the Indianapolis Star and ending with the Philadelphia Daily News. At one time, he was night editor of the Daily News, giving him something in common with John Hay, who was once night editor of the legendary New York Tribune. He teaches Civil War classes at Manor College in Jenkintown, PA and is vice president of the Delaware Valley Civil War Round Table in Philadelphia.
Lincoln reprisor Steve Wood is member #118 of the Association of Lincoln Presenters has been portraying Lincoln at schools, libraries, historical societies and community events in New Hampshire and Vermont since 1995. He has traveled to West Virginia, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio and Iowa for ALP Conventions and was awarded 2nd place in the Lincoln Look-Alike Contest held in Hodgenville, Kentucky in 2000.
History/Herstory Camp
Monday-Friday, July 8-12, 9am-12:30pm
Through stories and activities, campers, ages 6-11, will bring history alive as they learn about The Fells, John Hay’s summer estate on Lake Sunapee. Campers will tour the house and grounds and see how each generation of Hay family made their mark and reflected the fashionable trends of their time. Campers will construct a timeline to illustrate the historical period from 1890 to present, including their own family stories. Activities will include cooking, gardening, writing, drawing and a simple boat building activity. A highlight of the week will be a visit from Ellen Wassel, Alice Hay’s personal maid from 1974-1978. She will share stories from her book Hay Day and describing a typical day at The Fells from a maid’s point of view. Led by Rhode Island School of Design-trained artist and child educator, Lawre Goodnow. Members $125, nonmembers $150, includes all materials. Children bring lunch and personal necessities. Limited enrollment, registration required by July 2. Funded by the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Introduction to Fertilizers
Thursday, July 11, 1-3pm
Few things are as basic and essential to successful gardening as the correct fertilizer and proper application. This class explores the different compositions and functions of the many fertilizers available. Led by Nancy Jachim, a gardening expert who has taught horticulture for over 20 years in a NYC high school (AAS, SUNY-Farmingdale, Ornamental Horticulture). Advance registration required by July 5. Meets at The Fells Gatehouse classroom.
Artists Weekend
Saturday-Sunday, July 13-14, 10am-4pm
Come and see prominent New England artists working en plein air amid the beauty of The Fells landscape and gardens. On Saturday, observe the artists as their creations take form. On Sunday, enjoy artist demonstrations and a children’s art table. A 3pm reception and exhibit includes refreshments, live music and wet paint sale and is free and open to all. Members free, nonmembers pay site admission. Rain or shine.
Art in Nature for Children—Rustic Sculptures
Thursday-Friday, July 18-19, 9am-1pm
Children, ages 6-12, create outdoor sculpture from local material. This fun and energetic camp with artist Mark Ragonese teaches children to develop a deeper understanding of their environment and their innate artistic creativity. Children make and bring home a sculpture and also help create one that will be displayed on The Fells grounds. Mark is a juried member of the League of NH Craftsmen and the NH State Council on the Arts. Members $80, nonmembers $100, includes all materials. Children bring lunch and personal necessities. Limited enrollment, registration required by July 12. Funded by the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Newbury Free Days
Saturday-Sunday, July 20-21
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens is proud to be part of Newbury’s historic heritage and civic-minded spirit and extends an invitation to Newbury residents, town employees, civic volunteers, and their immediate families, to tour the gardens, trails, and Main House free of charge throughout this weekend. Please check in at the Kiosk to register for a drawing for a complimentary Household membership.
Concert on the Veranda
Sunday, July 21, 4-6pm
As twilight approaches, gather at The Fells favorite spot near the fragrant Rose Terrace with gorgeous views of Mount Sunapee and Lake Sunapee. As you bask in the golden summer light, enjoy elegant hors d’oeuvres and complimentary wine from 4-5pm. The concert, featuring Broadway star Nancy Tripp and her trio of musicians, begins at 5pm. Nancy “croons like a female Frank Sinatra.” Her cabaret-style performance features pieces by award winning composer, pianist, singer and actor, Hoagy Carmichael. $30 pp. Please reserve early, as seating is limited.
2013 Town of Newbury Ecology Camp for Children
Monday through Friday, July 22-26, 9am-12:30pm
Children, ages 6-13, will enhance their love and respect for the natural world while learning wetland and watershed ecology with naturalists and scientists. Activities will be outdoors, weather permitting and include hiking and boating on Lake Sunapee. Campers should bring a towel, sneakers and rain gear. Offered by the Newbury Recreation Dept. and Lake Sunapee Protective Association staff in partnership with The Fells. Contact Travis Dezotell, Newbury Parks and Recreation Dept.: travis@newburynh.org, 603-763-4940 x210, http://newburynh.org
Animals of The Fells
Wednesday, July 24 through Monday, October 14
Main House Gallery, open during Main House hours
A veritable safari in art depicting the wildlife of the forests, fields, lakeshore and aquatic environments of The Fells. Features the works of artists from the Sunapee region and beyond. Sponsored by Ledyard National Bank.
All The Great Prizes: The Life of John Hay: Author’s Reception
Wednesday, July 24, 4-5:30pm
Renowned author John Taliaferro will read from his new book All The Great Prizes: The Life of John Hay, from Lincoln to Roosevelt, published by Simon & Schuster. Hay was both witness and author of many significant chapters in American history— from the birth of the Republican Party, the Civil War, and the Spanish-American War, to the prelude to the First World War. Much of what we know about Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt comes from observations Hay made in the Oval Office. Taliaferro’s book is the first authoritative biography of Hay in eighty years and renders a fascinating portrait of this brilliant American and his many worlds. A book signing opportunity and reception will follow. Free. No reservations required.
Fairy House Festival and Tea Party
Sunday July 28, 1-4pm
Back by popular demand! A celebration of Fairy Houses that connects children to the natural world. This magical afternoon features Tracy Kane reading from her book, Fairy Houses, and sharing photos of whimsical fairy habitats built from all natural materials to attract fairies and their friends. Children visit The Fells Fairy Village and create their very own fairy house. The afternoon culminates with a meet-the-author/book signing by Tracy Kane and a fanciful Tea Party on the Veranda. Children are invited to wear original garments inspired by their idea of fairies, fairy houses and the magic of nature and to bring an original fairy house for display (optional). Children $6, adults $12, includes site admission. Space limited, reserve online or by calling 603-763-4789 x3 no later than July 22. Supported by grants from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation’s Wellborn Ecology Fund, and the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
About Tracy Kane: author, Illustrator, educator
Tracy Kane majored in illustration at Philadelphia College of Art. She also studied in London, England where she met her husband, Barry. After working as a commercial artist for NH Public Television, she now spends most of her time introducing communities to the joy of fairy house building. Says Tracy: “My goal in producing the Fairy House’s Series, is to connect children with the wonders of nature. I use the fairies as a vehicle to remind them that nature’s magic is all around us.”
Writing the Landscape Camp for Grades 7-12
Monday through Friday, July 29-August 2, 9am-noon
This week-long camp, sponsored by the National Writing Project of NH, focuses on writing about nature. Participants explore the beauty of The Fells as a catalyst for their own writing. Instructors Amanda Leslie, NWPNH fellow and Colby Sawyer College writing instructor, and Tammis Coffin, Coordinator of The Fells John Hay Ecology Center, will lead participants through a rich historical landscape of woodland and lakefront trails and gardens. The published works of renowned naturalist John Hay (1915-2011) and the land itself will inspire the writing, which will be revised and shared within the group. $115 per child, all materials provided. Limited enrollment, registration required by July 22. Funded by the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
On Gossamer Wings: The Dragonflies & Damselflies of Chalk Pond
Saturday, August 3, 11am-12:30pm
Dragonflies and damselflies are aerial acrobats and rapacious hunters of insects, including mosquitoes and black flies. Pamela Hunt, Senior Biologist for New Hampshire Audubon, will offer a brief introduction to their biology and life cycle before leading the group on an excursion to experience the fascinating dragonflies of nearby Chalk Pond. Wear water-suitable footwear and bring an insect net if you have one. Members free, nonmembers pay site admission. Meets at The Fells Gate House classroom. Made possible with support from the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Painting the Landscape – Children’s Art in Nature Summer Camp
Monday-Tuesday, August 5-6, 9am-12:30pm
Students, ages 6-12, paint in The Fells gardens and woodlands. Megan Cardillo instructs on the use of various media including watercolor and acrylic, and traditional drawing and painting techniques. Children learn about composition, color, perspective and texture and create their own unique landscape paintings. Megan has a BA in Art from Wittenberg University and Certification in K-12 Art Ed from Parson’s School of Design. She has 12 years of experience teaching all ages in private and public schools and currently teaches elementary art in Newport, NH. Members $65, nonmembers $80, all materials provided. Children bring lunch and personal necessities. Limited enrollment, registration required by July 29. Funded by the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Creating Habitat for Birds and Butterflies
Thursday, August 8, 1-3pm
Landscaping for birds begins with trees and thickets for food and cover. Planting a flower garden also attracts birds and butterflies and provides host food plants for butterflies and their caterpillars. Learn which plants are preferred by these beautiful winged creatures so you can create your own backyard paradise. Master Gardener Lynn Johnson—an amateur naturalist with a passion for birds—has coordinated and conducted many nature walk programs at The Fells and works with raptors at the Vermont Institute of Natural Science and NH Audubon. Co-leader Cheryl Grabe—herbalist at the Fort at No. 4 and volunteer gardener at St. Gaudens’ National Historic Site in Cornish—has studied the habitat needs of butterflies and photographed many flowers and the caterpillars that feed upon them. Sponsored by the Sullivan County Master Gardeners in conjunction with the UNH Cooperative Extension. Requested donation of $10 to benefit The Fells. Advance registration required by August 2. Meets at The Fells Gatehouse classroom.
Hay Day Family Festival
Saturday, August 10, 10am-3pm
This is our most popular family event! Enjoy old-fashioned games, music, children’s art projects, scavenger hunt, petting zoo, face painting and delicious food. Features a live performance of the New London Barn Playhouse Junior Players at 1pm. While here explore our varied nature trails, visit the Fairy Village, view the Art in Nature-2013 outdoor sculpture exhibit and the Main House art exhibit, Animals of The Fells. Hourly historic tours of the Main House and a 1pm tour of the gardens offered. Members free, nonmembers pay site admission. Rain or shine.
Of Constellations & Perseids: Star Gazing and Meteors
Monday, August 12, 8-9:30pm (Rain date, August 13)
With our eyes to the arch of the night sky, we’ll explore constellations and watch for meteors during the height of the summer Perseid meteor shower, which can produce up to 60 meteors per hour! Fred Sladen of the New London Outing Club will lead this field trip of star-gazing and shooting-stars during the halcyon evenings of summer. Members free, nonmembers pay site admission. No registration required. Meets at The Fells Welcome Kiosk.
12th Benefit Auction
Sunday, August 18, 5-9pm
An elegant extravaganza under a majestic tent on the lovely Fells Rose Terrace. A fun filled evening with irresistible one-of-a-kind must-have live and silent auction items, full open bar and delicious hearty hors d’oeuvres. Check back frequently to view our growing list of exciting items. $60 through August 9; $75 therafter. Reserve online or call 603-763-4789 x3.
Landscape Painting at the Fells
Wednesday-Friday, August 21-23, 10am-3pm
Enjoy the beauty of the gardens and architecture of The Fells in a plein air workshop taught by Aline Ordman, award winning member and Master Pastelist with the Pastel Society of America and signature member of the American Impressionist Society. Aline, a teacher of over 20 years, concentrates on understanding color through exploration of values and shapes created by the play of light in nature. Students benefit from Aline’s hands-on style as well as one-on-one and group critiques. Work is in either pastels or oils with demonstrations in each provided daily. Aline exhibits in various galleries throughout the northeast and has a website for viewing at www.alineordman.com. Members $200, nonmembers $225. Advance registration required by August 16.
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens
The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens Commences Fall Hours
Now open weekends and Monday holidays September 7 through October 14. Discover what life was like on a 20th century New Hampshire summer estate. Take an historic guided tour of the 22-room Colonial Revival Main House, explore the renowned gardens, build a fairy house in the children’s Fairy Village and experience the natural world on one of our scenic trails. Members visit free, nonmembers $10, discounts for seniors, students and families.
Calling All Cameras: Autumn Ramble
Saturday, September 21, 10am-noon (Rain cancels)
Photograph the autumn faces of The Fells along woods trails, open fields, gardens and lakeshore. Discover trees and shrubs with the brightest foliage, including wild plum, blueberry and black gum. Co-led by Tammis Coffin, Coordinator, John Hay Ecology Center and Larry Harper of Portrait Design Photography. Designed for outdoor lovers of all ages who are passionate about photography and want to contribute seasonal photographs of The Fells for use in our publications. Fells Members free, nonmembers pay site admission. No registration required. Meets at The Fells Welcome Kiosk. Made possible with support from the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Take a Child Outside Week
September 24-30
In cooperation with Take a Child Outside Week, an international program created to help and encourage children discover the natural world, The Fells extends an invitation to “Bring a child, receive one free adult admission.” All children are free. Be part of this national movement and bring a child to The Fells to experience the beauty of our natural world. For more information see ww.takeachildoutside.org.
Smithsonian’s Museum Day Live
Saturday, September TBA, 9am-4pm
In the spirit of Smithsonian Museums, who offer free admission everyday, Museum Day Live! is an annual event hosted by Smithsonian magazine in which participating museums across the country open their doors to anyone presenting a Musuem Day Ticket. Explore the beauty of The Fells, this region’s most renowned public garden, and discover five acres of landscaped gardens, scenic hiking trails and the surrounding beauty of our natural world. More information at http://www.smithsonianmag.com/museumday/.
Fungi Foray for Beginners
Saturday, October 5, 1-4pm
Mushroom enthusiasts, Jill & George Montgomery, with assistance from the Montshire Mushroom Club, will present an introduction to fungi for beginners followed by a foray amid the rich Fells woodlands, ending with an identification session. Please bring a basket and knife. Members $5, nonmembers $10. Advance registration required by September 27. Supported by grants from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation’s Wellborn Ecology Fund, and the Creekmore and Adele Fath Charitable Foundation.
Holiday Patron Party
Friday, December 6, 5-8pm
The Fells once again hosts the must-do event of the season. Festive décor in the grandest of settings, the camaraderie of Fells supporters, fabulous fare and holiday toasts create a memorable event not to be missed! Tickets $100 per person, reservations limited. Reserve online or call 603-763-4789 x3 no later than November 29. Directions available at time of reservation.
Holiday House Tour
Saturday-Sunday, December 7-8, 10am-3pm
Tour six fabulous residences all decked out for the holidays in the picturesque town of New London, NH and get inspired! We have selected the crème de la crème of private homes for our 2013 Holiday House Tour. You will be thrilled with each and every one—from architecture to décor, young to antique, we promise you will be awestruck. The distinctive individuality of each home, music of the season, the scent of freshly cut pine boughs and twinkle of lights makes for a most unforgettable tour. Open for touring over two days, December 7-8, proceeds from this popular fundraiser benefit the beautiful Fells gardens. Advance tickets $20, through 5pm December 6, available online, at select retailers and at The Fells. Tickets day of tour $25—at Tour Headquarters—where you can shop our Holiday Boutique, brimming with unique one-of-a-kind gifts from the finest local artisans.
