Jay Day 2009 – History and Heritage Animals

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)

Painted pumpkins need a guardian!
Arts and crafts at Jay Day
L-R County Legislator Judy Myers, Prof. Nick Robinson, JHC President Suzanne Clary, Michael Kovner, Westchester County Executive Andrew Spano, Sharon DuBois and John Jay DuBois at Jay Day 2009
Jon Pattengill as John Jay
Looking at Randall lineback cattle
The petting zoo was very popular
Balloon swords for all!
Jazz by Arcadia
JHC Board members Suzanne Clary and Tommy Mercein with volunteers Jenny Mercein and Taryn Clary