Grey Towers Holds Special Exhibit for Limited Time Grey Towers Heritage Association cordially invites the public to a limited-time special exhibit, “If Only Lace Could Speak: The Legacy of Mary Eno Pinchot (1838-1914)”. The exhibit highlights the rich history of handmade lace production and collection. The lace revival of the Victorian Era led to the formation of lace and textile collections in museums across the country and allowed the history of this art to still be accessible today. Come discover the dedicated efforts of Mary Pinchot and today’s artisans in the preservation and continuation this art. Mary Eno Pinchot, whose summer home was Grey Towers, was an avid supporter of the arts and regarded lace as one of society’s greatest accomplishments. Her appreciation of lace began during her childhood, when she studied the history of lacemaking. Her interest in this craft eventually led to her establishing a lace collection for the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C. in 1908. A special thanks to The Lost Art Lacers of North Jersey. They assisted in artifact identification, demonstrated their craft for the exhibit’s film, and have been demonstrating the art of lacemaking at Grey Towers since the 1980s. The Lost Art Lacers of North Jersey will be at Grey Towers NHS on August 10, 2025 from 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. showcasing their talents with live demonstrations of lacemaking. The exhibit is available to view during self-guided ticketed museum tours on Fridays through Mondays at 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. now through November 2, 2025. For more information, visit fs.usda.gov/greytowers or www.facebook.com/GreyTowersNHS Grey Towers, originally built in 1886 as the summer estate of James and Mary Pinchot, is a national historic site managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The estate serves as a hub for conservation education and public engagement, reflecting the Pinchot family’s enduring environmental and community legacy. Grey Towers Heritage Association (GTHA) supports the efforts of the U.S. Forest Service to preserve and maintain the estate’s historic integrity, continue the tradition of Pinchot hospitality and strengthen Grey Towers’ connection to our communities.
Grey Towers Holds ‘Reading Rangers’ Program This Summer June 16-August 18 10-11 a.m., Mondays Reading Rangers This program for kids ages 4 to 12 includes read-aloud stories focusing on environmentalism and conservation. The readings are followed by a craft activity, hike, or scavenger hunt. Parents or guardians are required to remain with children during this program. Lower Pavilion at Grey Towers. www.greytowers/events
Grey Towers ‘Pinchot Picnic’ Features Cake Walk, Kids Games, Live Music Friends and families throughout the tri-state region are invited to celebrate Spring in a delightful outdoor setting at Grey Towers National Historic Site in Milford, Pennsylvania on Sunday, June 15 (Father’s Day) from 12 to 3 p.m. Attendees can look forward to a first-ever Cake Walk, children’s theater and activities, live music, and the simple joy of gathering in nature. Families are encouraged to bring their own picnics, find a scenic spot on the grounds, and enjoy the historic beauty of Grey Towers—once home to Gifford Pinchot, the first Chief of the U.S. Forest Service. “We’re introducing a delicious new twist this year,” explains Karen Loeschorn, Grey Towers Heritage Association Board Member and event co-organizer. “The Cake Walk will feature homemade cakes and pies baked by picnic-goers. We encourage attendees to bring a homemade cake to share at tables set up on the grounds. Everyone may then sample the desserts, and prizes will be awarded.” “It’s a wonderful way for people to come together, enjoy the outdoors and great music, and celebrate the legacy of conservation that Gifford Pinchot left us all,” adds Barbara Wortmann, Board Member and co-organizer of the picnic. “We’re happy to announce that the Milford Hospitality Group is a premiere sponsor for this year’s picnic.” Whether indulging in the Cake Walk and games, listening to great music, or simply unwinding amidst the lush scenery, guests can expect a relaxed and enjoyable afternoon. Schedule: 12-3 p.m. Picnic on the grounds 12 p.m. “FernGully” live musical performance by the kids of Stagecraft Performance Art 1 to 3 p.m. Children’s activities including corn hole, potato sack races, bubbles, a Grey Towers mansion coloring contest, and pin the tail on the donkey. 1 to 2 p.m. Cake Walk (bring a cake or pie, sample others’ based goods) 1 to 3 p.m. Marc VonEm & Trio perform a mix of bluesy rock, folk, funk, and jazz To participate in the Cake Walk, just bring a homemade non-refrigerated cake or pie with a brief written description for the Cake Walk. Guests are also invited to dress in costume (Pinchot family Victorian-era, if possible) for extra fun and prizes. All outdoor activities are free, and the picnic will be held at Pool Pavilion in the event of rain. Ticketed self-guided museum tours on the estate will be available and include special exhibits.
Grey Towers Calls For Artists The Grey Towers Heritage Association invites regional artists to create and display their works in any medium at an “Open-Air Art Show” on Saturday, April 26th, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm (rain date: Sunday, April 27th) at the historic Grey Towers estate in Milford. Whether it’s oils, embroidery, watercolors, pen & ink, quilts, or any other media, artists are encouraged to register for this opportunity to paint, sketch, and otherwise create art based on the Grey Towers mansion and surrounding outbuildings and beautiful vistas. This event will offer visitors a glimpse into each artist’s technique as well as an opportunity to purchase unique art pieces from the artists who will be located throughout the magnificent grounds while spring daffodils and crocuses are in bloom. “This plein air art show carries on a cherished family tradition,” said Don Allen, board member and coordinator. “The Pinchots understood the importance of nurturing creativity and supporting emerging talent. We are thrilled to offer this platform for local artists to create art on-site and share their work with the community.” Artists and visitors alike will enjoy the grounds of this historic site while sharing and discovering the diverse talents of the region’s artistic community. The event will be open to the public at no cost. “Painting outside is a rare luxury,” states Bob Eckstein, whose watercolor rendering of the Grey Towers mansion accompanies this article. “Grey Towers Heritage invites everyone with an artistic talent to participate.” For more information and/or to register for a space, artists should visit www.greytowers.org/events/ or call 570-491-7306.
Grey Towers Heritage Association Partners with Delaware Valley High School Grey Towers Heritage Association is now partnering with Delaware Valley High School to benefit students, parents, teachers and GTHA. “We’re proud and privileged to announce that Grey Towers Heritage Association is now working closely in collaboration with Delaware Valley High School to create opportunities for students to develop their talents, volunteer in community organizations, and gain credits for community work,” states Eileen Smith, President of GTHA. Students will have opportunities to apply their skills in social media and other areas by partnering with GTHA to publicize and participate in GTHA events. “We want to spread the word, especially to students and their parents, that Grey Towers isn’t just a beautiful castle on a hill, but a place that invites all community members to take advantage of the natural beauty of the mansion grounds,” explains Emma Ciancio, Editor-in-Chief of DVHS’s Del.Aware school paper. “Through our print and online versions of the school paper, the Del.Aware team will be helping Grey Towers Heritage attract teens and their families to hike year-round and engage in community events featuring art, music, and history in a fun, natural environment spanning 102 acres.” “We’re proud of our students for accepting the invitation to team with GTHA,” adds DVHS Principal Louis DeLauro. “Engaging in these activities provides new opportunities for our students to participate in community life and in some cases, earn credits for doing so. This also shows well on resumes and applications for colleges and jobs.” For more information about Grey Towers Heritage Association and student volunteer opportunities, students and parents may visit greytowers.org or speak to Emma Ciancio at the school.
Grey Towers Presents “At Home with the Pinchots” Mansion Tour Grey Towers presents an exclusive visit to all three floors of this Gilded Age mansion located in Milford, PA. Your “calling card” provides a guided tour by actors portraying the actual people who lived there! Refreshments served. For tickets www.greytowers.org At Home with the Pinchots Saturday, May 11, 2024 11:00-2:00 Ever wonder what life was really like for the Pinchot family who lived at Grey Towers? Be the first to get an exclusive “calling card” to visit on May 11th between 11:00 and 2:00! All three floors of the mansion will be featured with actors who portray the famous persons who lived there. You are greeted by James and Mary, the patriarchs of this Gilded Age family. After highlighting their family’s history and rise to prominence in New York City social scene, enjoy their memories of summering at Grey Towers. Gifford, their son who became the first chief of the Forest Service, will show you around his library and explain why he became such a force for conservation. His further contributions as a two -term Governor will be highlighted. Moving on, you will be received by Cornelia, his wife, who was a preeminent advocate for women’s rights, social justice and cultural change in the early 20th century. Upstairs, there is a special guest waiting! Theodore Roosevelt, longtime friend and collaborator with Gifford, will tell the story behind the story. And finally, meet Mary McCadden, the nanny who saw it all! A not to be missed opportunity. Refreshments will be served. For tickets, go to www.greytowers.org.
Grey Towers National Historic Site to Offer Free Open House Please join us at Grey Towers Heritage Association National Historic Site on May 20, 2024, from 3:00-5:00 pm for our FREE Business Open House. This Business Open House is a time for local business owners and managers to experience what Grey Towers has to offer. Please tour our museum and grounds, ask questions and learn what your guests and customers will experience when they come to visit us. Learn about the programs and activities we offer. Discuss potential partnerships for promoting our local economy with Grey Towers Heritage Association representatives.Our mission, as stewards of Grey Towers NHS, we perpetuate the leadership and conservation legacy of Gifford Pinchot and the Pinchot family. We want the community and its business leaders to feel included and valued at Grey Towers. We are here to provide hospitable service across diverse audiences to those living or visiting Milford. We value collaborating with you and the community.Our address is 151 Grey Towers Drive, Milford, PA 18337. Any questions, please call (570) 296-9630 x3. We look forward to meeting you.Please RSVP to info@greytowers.org by May 6, 2024.
