Reported by Yuqi Nie
On December 21, 2024, AYLUS Syosset Branch members participated in an educational tour at Bayard Cutting Arboretum, located in Great River, New York. The event aimed to familiarize volunteers with the environment for future activities and to delve into the historical significance of the site.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: December 21, 2024, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM
- Location: Bayard Cutting Arboretum, Great River, NY
Activities:
- Early Arrival and Exploration: The group arrived at approximately 9:30 AM and explored major sections of the park to become acquainted with the surroundings in preparation for future volunteer work.
- Guided Tour: At 11:00 AM, a guide named Peter led the volunteers through the historic manor house, providing an in-depth narrative of its significance. The mansion, designed by architect Charles C. Haight in 1886 for William Bayard Cutting, stands as a testament to Tudor Revival architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- Historical Insights: The tour offered insights into the estate’s origins, including its design by the renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Sr., in 1886. The arboretum was donated to the Long Island State Park Region by Mrs. William Bayard Cutting and her daughter, Mrs. Olivia James, in memory of William Bayard Cutting, to serve as an oasis of beauty and to promote appreciation for informal planting.
Challenges Overcome:
Despite snowfall in the morning, which led to the cancellation of activities by many, the dedicated volunteers proceeded with the visit, demonstrating commitment to learning and community engagement.
Conclusion:
The educational tour provided valuable historical context and environmental familiarity, enhancing the volunteers’ readiness for future initiatives at the arboretum. The experience underscored the importance of perseverance and dedication in community service.
Participants: Yuqi Nie (1.5 hours), Michael DiMaulo, Peter Nie
