If we could talk to the animals….!
Over 200 visitors came to the Jay Estate and met rare American heritage farm animals at Jay Day, on October 3, 2009. Westchester County Executive Andrew Spano stopped by to applaud the efforts of the Jay Heritage Center to safeguard the park and spearhead new efforts to rehabilitate the gardens and remove invasive species.
Attendees enjoyed seeing Randall lineback cattle, American Jackstock donkey, blue rabbits and Indian runner ducks, just some of the endangered native breeds that were on view courtesy of the Tilly Foster Farm Museum and the Whipple Foundation/Society for the Preservation of Putnam County Antiquities and Greenways.
Seasonal refreshments included cider, a New York State wine and cheese tasting and more; activities for adults and children included jazz and chamber music on the veranda, and tours by 19th century costumed docents of the historic Jay Property buildings and grounds, face painting, storytelling and balloon animals. Children built their own Greek Revival building in a mini architecture exercise in the Carriage House. Farmers market offerings included zinnias and fingerling potatoes from Wingnut Farm and more.
(Photos by Cutty McGill)
