Press Releases > 2006 Press Releases
2006 Press Releases
New Jersey Botanical Garden Hosts Holiday Open House at Skylands
Historic Skylands Manor in the New Jersey State Botanical Garden will be filled with an extravagant display of holiday décor during NJBG's spectacular annual Holiday Open House from November 30 to December 3, 2006.
Skylands Manor, a 45-room Tudor-style country estate built in the early 1920's, features many fine historic architectural elements and is an elegant backdrop for this celebration of the season. In keeping the botanical surroundings, the lush holiday décor features abundant live and dried plants and flowers, richly decorated trees, and elegant appointments, as well as displays created with youngsters in mind.
The decorating theme, which is new and different each year, is 'Believe.' Individual rooms are decorated by scores of volunteers from northern New Jersey garden clubs, Master Gardener programs, state park staff, local vendors, and NJBG members. NJBG/Skylands Association, the non-profit member organization which supports the gardens, sponsors this annual event.
Daytime tours of the Skylands Holiday Open House are available Nov. 30, Dec. 1, Dec. 2, and Dec. 3, 2006, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults, $6 for seniors, $4 for children 6-12, and free for children under six. No strollers, please. Group tours are also available. The last tour begins at 4:30 p.m.
Evening 'Champagne and Candlelight' Tours are also available on Dec. 1, 2, and 3, 2006 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. During these special evening showings, the Manor will be yours for leisurely enjoyment with champagne, light refreshments and valet parking. Tickets are $25 and reservations are required. Please call 973-962-9534 to reserve tickets.
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NJBG Presents Autumn Hike October 21, 2006 at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden
As part of its "Garden Saturday" series, NJBG will sponsor "Wandering in the Ramapos," an autumn hike at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, on Saturday, October 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The program is free, but donations are welcome.
Enjoy the beauty of the season on a fall hike in the hills surrounding the NJ Botanical Garden, led by Gene Giordano, Ringwood State Park Trails Supervisor for the NY-NJ Trail Conference. This vigorous all-day outing will take you through hill and dale, so come prepared with sturdy hiking shoes, water, and lunch. Some terrain may be rugged. Meet at the Carriage House at 10 a.m. Steady rain cancels.
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NJBG Presents Digital Photo Workshop October 21, 2006 at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden
As part of its "Garden Saturday" series, NJBG will sponsor a program on Digital Photography at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, on Saturday, October 21, at 10 a.m. The program is free, but a $3 donation is welcome.
Join photographer John Cudworth for a workshop on nature photography with digital cameras. The program begins in the Carriage House with a discussion of digital camera sizes and styles, technical problems and image storage issues, lenses and depth of field, adjustments, and printing issues. Bring your digital camera with you for a walk through the Garden to apply some of what they've learned. Rain cancels the outdoor portion of the program.
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NJBG Hosts Harvest Fest at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden
The sixth annual Fall Harvest Fest will take place at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, on Saturday, October 7 and Sunday, October 8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. NJBG/Skylands Association, the non-profit member organization that supports the Botanical Garden, sponsors this annual celebration of autumn.
Activities for visitors of all ages include hay rides, pumpkin painting, free garden tours, an autumn plant sale, a blacksmithing demonstration, chair massages, great music, delicious food and a beer-tasting. The Botanical Garden, with all its glorious fall plantings and foliage, is open free of charge.
On Saturday, enjoy music from Linda Ipanema and the Dixie Cats, and on Sunday, the musical offerings are by B.W. and the Western Strings. Both bands will perform from 1 -- 4 p.m.
In addition to the festival fun, there will be free guided garden tours at 1 p.m and 3 p.m. There will also be free guided walk along NJBG's scale-model Solar System at 2 p.m.
For hungry guests, The Harvest Café will offer tasty treats and traditional Octoberfest fare. The beer-tasting (adults only) offers a sample of several different beers ($12 for members, $15 for non-members; unlimited birch beer for any age is $5).
NJBG is located on Morris Road in Ringwood, NJ. Call (973) 962-9534 for more information on NJBG, membership, volunteer opportunities, events or directions. The NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission to the Botanical Garden is free.
Originally assembled from pioneer farmsteads of the 1890s, The New Jersey Botanical Garden has a venerable history. In 1922, Clarence McKenzie Lewis, an investment banker and trustee of the New York Botanical Garden purchased the property and original Victorian mansion from Francis Lynde Stetson. Over the next three decades, Mr. Lewis built the current 45-room Tudor manor house and transformed Skylands into a botanical showplace, engaging prominent landscape architects to design the grounds and collecting plants from all over the world.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands as the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official Botanical Garden in 1984. The gardens contain many unique features, including an extensive collection of statuary, historic trees, formal annual garden, perennial beds and an heirloom collection of lilacs.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden. Guided tours of the gardens are offered on Sundays at 2 p.m., May through the end of October, weather permitting, and Manor House tours are offered on the first Sunday of each month.
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Skylands Manor Tours Available September 10 at NJBG
Guided tours of the ground floor of historic Skylands Manor in the New Jersey State Botanical Garden will be available to the public on Sunday, September 10, 2006.
Sponsored by the NJBG/Skylands Association, the non-profit volunteer organization working with the State to preserve the gardens, the 45-minute guided tours run from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and are conducted by NJBG tour guides, or docents.
Additional tour dates for 2006 are October 1 and November 5. Tours take place on the first Sunday afternoon of each month through November (except September, when tours will be on the 2nd Sunday).
Skylands Manor, a Tudor Revival mansion, was constructed in the early 20th century for Clarence McKenzie Lewis by renowned architect John Russell Pope. Pope also designed many outstanding private buildings, including the Jefferson Memorial and National Gallery of Art, both in Washington, D.C. Among Skylands Manor's many attractions are a remarkable collection of antique stained glass medallions set in leaded windows, including pieces from 16th century German, Bavarian and Swiss sites. The lanterns, electrical fixtures, lamps, spiral staircase rail and gate were fashioned by Samuel Yellin, who led the American revival of the use of iron as decorative art.
The suggested donations for Manor House tours are: adults $5; seniors, $3; children/students aged 6-18, $1; and children under age 6, free.
Since 1976, The NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect NJBG/Skylands and its historic structures.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free, with a small State parking charge on summer weekends only.
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NJBG Summer Concert on August 18: New York Exceptions
The NJBG Summer Concert Series at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood concludes on Friday, August 18, with the New York Excetions providing an evening of classics from the 50s, 60s and 70s. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come enjoy some great musical talent in these magnificent and beautiful surroundings. If the weather is inclement, the concert is moved indoors. The concert begins at 7:00 pm.
New to the NJBG stage, the fabulous New York Exceptions will rock 'n roll you with all your favorite tunes from the 50's, 60's and 70's. This talented 6-member group of Doo-Wop experts will offer up a delightful evening to round out this year's concert series.
NJBG requests a $2.50 per person donation.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official Botanical Garden in 1984. Today, the NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission to the Garden is always free. There is a $5 per car parking charge on summer holidays and weekends (Saturdays and Sundays); weekday parking is free.
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NJBG Summer Concert on August 4: Ron Gartner
The NJBG Summer Concert Series at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood continues on Friday, August 4, with an evening of big band standards and swing era classics. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come enjoy some great musical talent in these magnificent and beautiful surroundings. If the weather is inclement, the concert is moved indoors. The concert begins at 7:00 pm.
Are you a Sinatra fan? Love standards and bandstand favorites? Then you won't want to miss this fun concert! Ron Gartner gave up entertaining after a few years of singing at the Whisky A-Go-Go and an unfulfilled contract with Motown. He went to work in his father's fabric business and together they built a 10-store chain in Southern California. When his parents retired, Gartner moved to NY and began hanging out at piano bars. One thing led to another and now he's traveling all over the country with his band. He'll offer NJBG concert-goers a wonderful evening of Big Band and Swing classics sure to be a delightful musical experience.
The final concert in the series will be:
- August 18 -- The New York Exceptions
NJBG requests a $2.50 per person donation.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official Botanical Garden in 1984. Today, the NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission to the Garden is always free. There is a $5 per car parking charge on summer holidays and weekends (Saturdays and Sundays); weekday parking is free.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden. Call (973) 962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org for more information on NJBG, how to becoming a member, volunteer opportunities, events or directions.
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NJBG Summer Concert on July 21: Wooster Street Trolley
The NJBG Summer Concert Series at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood continues on Friday, July 21, with a rollicking mix of jazz, dixiieland and swing by the Wooster Street Trolley. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come enjoy some great musical talent in these magnificent and beautiful surroundings. If the weather is inclement, the concert is moved indoors. The concert begins at 7:00 pm.
The Wooster Street Trolley always bring a magical music evening to NJBG. Under the leadership of the irrepressible Bob Leive (horns and vocals), the group will also include Lou Pollo on guitar, vocalist Patti Graham, and Jeff Gelber doing the honors. The Wooster Street Trolley will treat you to a fabulous concert of jazz and swing era classics and contemporary favorites.
Other upcoming concerts in the series are:
- August 4 -- Ron Gartner
- August 18 -- The New York Exceptions
NJBG requests a $2.50 per person donation.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official Botanical Garden in 1984. Today, the NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission to the Garden is always free. There is a $5 per car parking charge on summer holidays and weekends (Saturdays and Sundays); weekday parking is free.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden. Call (973) 962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org for more information on NJBG, how to becoming a member, volunteer opportunities, events or directions.
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Skylands Manor Tours Available August 6 at NJBG
Guided tours of the ground floor of historic Skylands Manor in the New Jersey State Botanical Garden will be available to the public on Sunday, August 6, 2006.
Sponsored by the NJBG/Skylands Association, the non-profit volunteer organization working with the State to preserve the gardens, the 45-minute guided tours run from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and are conducted by NJBG tour guides, or docents.
Additional tour dates for 2006 are September 10, October 1, and November 5. Tours take place on the first Sunday afternoon of each month through November (except September, when tours will be on the 2nd Sunday).
Skylands Manor, a Tudor Revival mansion, was constructed in the early 20th century for Clarence McKenzie Lewis by renowned architect John Russell Pope. Pope also designed many outstanding private buildings, including the Jefferson Memorial and National Gallery of Art, both in Washington, D.C. Among Skylands Manor's many attractions are a remarkable collection of antique stained glass medallions set in leaded windows, including pieces from 16th century German, Bavarian and Swiss sites. The lanterns, electrical fixtures, lamps, spiral staircase rail and gate were fashioned by Samuel Yellin, who led the American revival of the use of iron as decorative art.
The suggested donations for Manor House tours are: adults $5; seniors, $3; children/students aged 6-18, $1; and children under age 6, free.
Since 1976, The NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect NJBG/Skylands and its historic structures.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free, with a small State parking charge on summer weekends only.
NJBG/Skylands is located off Morris Road in Ringwood, New Jersey. For an event schedule, membership brochure, directions or more information, call 973-962-9534.
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NJBG Summer Concert on July 7: Linda Ipanema & the Dixie Cats
The NJBG Summer Concert Series at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood continues on Friday, July 7, with a rollicking mix of dixieland and show tunes by Linda Ipanema and the Dixie Cats. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come enjoy some great musical talent in these magnificent and beautiful surroundings. If the weather is inclement, the concert is moved indoors. The concert begins at 7:00 pm.
Linda Ipanema has been in show business her whole life. In addition to stage musicals, she has appeared in leading films such as "A Bronx Tale" and "The Pope of Greenwich Village," as well as on TV's "Law and Order." A few years ago she decided to concentrate on her favorite activity, belting out old-time songs, and formed her current group, the Dixie Cats. A red hot, foot-tapping, finger-snapping revue featuring classical Dixieland tunes and bluesy ballads is presented by some of the best Dixieland players in the metro area: Bob Cantwell on trumpet, Don Edmonds on piano, Bob Field on bass fiddle and Jimmy Pirone on drums. Wait 'til you hear this band swing!
Other upcoming concerts in the series are:
- July 21 -- Wooster Street Trolley
- August 4 -- Ron Gartner
- August 18 -- The New York Exceptions
NJBG requests a $2.50 per person donation.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official Botanical Garden in 1984. Today, the NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission to the Garden is always free. There is a $5 per car parking charge on summer holidays and weekends (Saturdays and Sundays); weekday parking is free.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
Call (973) 962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org for more information on NJBG, how to becoming a member, volunteer opportunities, events or directions.
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NJBG Summer Concert on June 23: Rusty Strings
The NJBG Summer Concert Series at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood continues on Friday, June 23 with the country-tinged sounds of Rusty Strings. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come enjoy a wide range of musical talent in these magnificent and beautiful surroundings. If the weather is inclement, the concerts are moved indoors. All concerts begin at 7:00 pm.
The Rusty Strings are a 7-member country music band formed in the 1990's. Based in Ringwood, New Jersey, they play a range of old and new country--including songs by artists such as Tammy Wynette, Tanya Tucker, Martina McBride, Sugarland, and many more. (They have also been known to throw in an original now and then.) Their love of country flows out of their songs, and their unpredictable mix makes them fun to see.
Other upcoming concerts in the series are:
- July 7 -- Linda Ipanema & the Dixie Cats
- July 21 -- Wooster Street Trolley
- August 4 -- Ron Gartner
- August 18 -- The New York Exceptions
NJBG requests a $2.50 per person donation.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official Botanical Garden in 1984. Today, the NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission to the Garden is always free. There is a $5 per car parking charge on summer holidays and weekends (Saturdays and Sundays); weekday parking is free.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
Call (973) 962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org for more information on NJBG, how to becoming a member, volunteer opportunities, events or directions.
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NJBG Summer Concert Series Begins on June 9 with the 3-M Band
The NJBG is once again sponsoring its free summer concert series at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood, with the first concert featuring The 3-M Band scheduled for Friday, June 9. Grab a lawn chair or blanket and come enjoy a wide range of musical talent in these magnificent and beautiful surroundings. If the weather is inclement, the concerts are moved indoors. All concerts begin at 7:00 pm.
Larry Morris, Bill Moen and Mike Morris make up the 3-M Band, playing guitar, bass and percussion. Formed in 1971, they all hail from Pompton Lakes. Their acoustical sounds are of the 60s and 70s with attention to harmonizing vocals--music of Crosby, Stills and Nash, Neil Young, Harry Chapin, Jimmy Buffet, Simon and Garfunkel and more. These are all lively sing-along songs, and the audience always joins in for a great time.
Other upcoming concerts in the series are:
- June 23 -- Rusty Strings
- July 7 -- Linda Ipanema & the Dixie Cats
- July 21 -- Wooster Street Trolley
- August 4 -- Ron Gartner
- August 18 -- The New York Exceptions
NJBG requests a $2.50 per person donation.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official Botanical Garden in 1984. Today, the NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Admission to the Garden is always free. There is a $5 per car parking charge on summer holidays and weekends (Saturdays and Sundays); weekday parking is free.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
Call (973) 962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org for more information on NJBG, how to becoming a member, volunteer opportunities, events or directions.
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NJBG Presents Spring Wildflower Walk May 20, 2006 at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden
As part of its 'Garden Saturday' series, NJBG will sponsor a Spring Wildflower Walk at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, on Saturday, May 20, at 10 a.m. The program is free, but donations are welcome.
NJBG's Wildflower Garden is a haven for native plants, many of which are at their best in the spring. Join NJBG wildflower expert Nancy Bristow in checking out the spring bloomers in the Wildflower Garden, including a spectacular display of Japanese primroses along the Wildflower Garden's brooks. The walk will explore several different terrains and the plants which inhabit them. Wear comfortable shoes; meet at the Carriage House Visitor Center. Rain cancels.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free; a $5 per car State Park parking charge is in effect on weekends and holidays only from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official botanical garden in 1984.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
NJBG/Skylands is located on Morris Road in Ringwood, New Jersey. For an event schedule, membership brochure, directions or more information, please call 973-962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org.
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NJBG Presents Spring Wildflower Walk April 15, 2006 at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden
As part of its "Garden Saturday" series, NJBG will sponsor an Early Spring Wildflower Walk at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, on Saturday, April 15 at 10 a.m. The program is free, but donations are welcome.
NJBG's Wildflower Garden is a haven for native plants, many of which emerge early in the season to stake their claim on a bit of space. Join NJBG wildflower expert Nancy Bristow in checking out the early bloomers in the Wildflower Garden. The walk will explore several different terrains and the plants which inhabit them. Wear comfortable shoes; meet at the Carriage House Visitor Center. Rain or snow cancels.
A second Spring Wildflower Walk is scheduled for May 20, 2006 at 10:00 a.m.. In late May an entirely different group of plants is in flower, including a spectacular collection of Japanese primroses along the Wildflower Garden's streams.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free; a $5 per car State Park parking charge is in effect weekends and holidays only from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official botanical garden in 1984.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
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Skylands Manor Tours Available April 2 at NJBG
Guided tours of the ground floor of historic Skylands Manor in the New Jersey State Botanical Garden will be available to the public on Sunday, April 2, 2006.
Sponsored by the NJBG/Skylands Association, the non-profit volunteer organization working with the State to preserve the gardens, the 45-minute guided tours run from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and are conducted by NJBG tour guides, or docents.
Additional tour dates for 2006 are May 7, June 4, July 2, August 6, September 10, October 1, and November 5. Tours take place on the first Sunday afternoon of each month through November (except September, when tours will be on the 2nd Sunday).
Skylands Manor, a Tudor Revival mansion, was constructed in the early 20th century for Clarence McKenzie Lewis by renowned architect John Russell Pope. Pope also designed many outstanding private buildings, including the Jefferson Memorial and National Gallery of Art, both in Washington, D.C. Among Skylands Manor's many attractions are a remarkable collection of antique stained glass medallions set in leaded windows, including pieces from 16th century German, Bavarian and Swiss sites. The lanterns, electrical fixtures, lamps, spiral staircase rail and gate were fashioned by Samuel Yellin, who led the American revival of the use of iron as decorative art.
The suggested donations for Manor House tours are: adults $5; seniors, $3; children/students aged 6-18, $1; and children under age 6, free.
Since 1976, The NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect NJBG/Skylands and its historic structures.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free, with a small State parking charge on summer weekends only.
NJBG/Skylands is located off Morris Road in Ringwood, New Jersey. For an event schedule, membership brochure, directions or more information, call 973-962-9534 or visit www.njbg.org.
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NJBG Presents Program on Raptors March 25, 2006 at the New Jersey Botanical Garden
As part of its "Garden Saturday" series, NJBG will sponsor a program on "Raptors: Hunters of the Sky" at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden, on Saturday, March 25 at 10 a.m. The program is free, but donations are welcome.
Members of the New Jersey Audubon Society's Weis Ecology Center will introduce attendees to a live Screech Owl and Red-tailed Hawk, and offer an up-close-and-personal encounter with feathers, pellets, beaks, and talons. You'll learn more about hawks and owls, from backyard species to species living and migrating through the fields, forests and wetlands of New Jersey.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official botanical garden in 1984.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
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Skylands Manor Tours Available March 5 at NJBG
Guided tours of the ground floor of historic Skylands Manor at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden will be available to the public throughout the upcoming year, beginning on Sunday, March 5.
Sponsored by the NJBG/Skylands Association, the non-profit volunteer organization working with the State to preserve the gardens, the 45-minute guided tours run from 12 noon to 4 p.m. and are conducted by NJBG tour guides, or docents.
Tours will take place on the first Sunday afternoon of each month through November (except September, when tours will be on the 2nd Sunday). Tour dates for 2006 are March 5, April 2, May 7, June 4, July 2, August 6, September 10, October 1, and November 5.
Skylands Manor, a Tudor Revival mansion, was constructed in the early 20th century for Clarence McKenzie Lewis by renowned architect John Russell Pope. Pope also designed many outstanding private buildings, including the Jefferson Memorial and National Gallery of Art, both in Washington, D.C. Among Skylands Manor's many attractions are a remarkable collection of antique stained glass medallions set in leaded windows, including pieces from 16th century German, Bavarian and Swiss sites. The lanterns, electrical fixtures, lamps, spiral staircase rail and gate were fashioned by Samuel Yellin, who led the American revival of the use of iron as decorative art.
The suggested donations for Manor House tours are: adults $5; seniors, $3; children/students aged 6-18, $1; and children under age 6, free.
Since 1976, The NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect NJBG/Skylands and its historic structures.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free, with a small State parking charge on summer weekends only.
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Historic Landscape Design of Skylands is Topic of Presentation at the New Jersey Botanical Garden
Winter is the perfect time to learn something new about our local history and surroundings. Skylands, the New Jersey State Botanical Garden in Ringwood, is a unique botanical and architectural destination, a former country estate featuring elegantly landscaped grounds, historic buildings, and a vast collection of unusual plant species from around the world. What many people do not know is that Skylands is also home to New Jersey's only State Botanical Garden.
On Saturday, February 18, at 10:00 a.m. in the Carriage House at the New Jersey Botanical Garden (NJBG) in Ringwood, Head Landscape Gardener Rich Flynn will discuss and show slides on "Landscape Design at Skylands: A Historical Perspective." All are welcome, and a small donation is requested.
In 1922, Clarence McKenzie Lewis, an investment banker and trustee of the New York Botanical Garden, purchased the property from the estate of Francis Lynde Stetson, who founded Skylands in 1891. Over the next 30 years, Lewis built the existing Tudor-style 45-room Manor House and transformed Skylands into a botanical showplace.
Italian landscape designer Ferruccio Vitale (1875-1933), who developed his reputation through important civic commissions such as the National Mall and the National Gallery of Art, created the country-estate landscape of Skylands. Most of the trees now framing the house were planted by Lewis and his crew of over 60 gardeners (in peak seasons), including the magnificent copper beeches. Wanting to appeal to all of the senses, Lewis stressed symmetry, color, texture, form and fragrance in his gardens.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden, located on the central 96 acres of this 1,000-acre former country estate, is a distinctive botanic and architectural destination in its own right. Purchased in 1966 as New Jersey's first "Green Acres" acquisition, NJBG features elegantly landscaped grounds containing many of the original garden designs, historic buildings, extensive statuary and vast collection of plant species from around the world.
The centerpiece of the property is Skylands Manor, a Tudor Revival mansion constructed in the early 20th century by renowned architect John Russell Pope, for the estate's owner, Clarence McKenzie Lewis. Pope also designed many outstanding private residences and public buildings, including the Jefferson Memorial and National Gallery of Art, both in Washington, D.C. Other distinguished contributors to Skylands included decorative metal designer and craftsman Samuel Yellin (1885-1940), who led the American revival of the use of iron as decorative art. Yellin fashioned the lanterns, electrical fixtures, lamps, spiral staircase rail and gate of the Manor House.
Since 1976, The NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect NJBG/Skylands and its historic structures.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free.
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West Point Winter Concert on February 3, 2006 to be held at the New Jersey Botanical Garden
On Friday, February 3, 2006, at 7:15 pm, the NJBG/Skylands Association will host a Winter Concert by the West Point Woodwind Quintet at the New Jersey State Botanical Garden. In event of bad weather, the concert will be rescheduled for Sunday, February 5, 2006, at 3 p.m.
The West Point Woodwind Quintet of the United States Military Academy Band is made up of members of the Concert Band, and will offer a wide-ranging program of musical styles, spanning classical, ethnic, and popular modern musical genres.. The group performs at many different events, such as military social functions, formal recitals and special presentations. The West Point Woodwind Quintet has been a staple ensemble for many years, and continues to be an important musical emissary of the Academy Band and the United States Army.
Please call 973-962-9534 for more information. Seating is limited for this popular event, and will be on a first-come, first-served basis.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official botanical garden in 1984. Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
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Dinner and Auction to Benefit the New Jersey Botanical Garden at Skylands
On Saturday, February 11, the NJBG/Skylands Association will sponsor its third annual Dinner and Auction to benefit the New Jersey State Botanical Garden. This fun fundraising evening will include dinner and a 'Tricky Tray' as well as an auction, and will take place from 6:30 to 10 p.m. at the DoubleTree Hotel on Route 17 South in Mahwah, NJ.
Three different raffles and an auction of higher-value gifts will take place in the course of the evening, with entertainmnet provided by Billy Mann of Billy Mann Productions. The ticket price of $30 per person includes appetizer, salad, entreé and wine with dinner, coffee and dessert.
Tax-deductible donations of gifts, prizes and cash are still being welcomed for the fundraising Auction, as are advertisements in the event's Dinner Journal. All of the proceeds will benefit the New Jersey Botanical Garden, the state's premiere public garden.
Please call 973-962-9534 to make reservations, to donate a gift, or to become an event sponsor. Reservations are required and seating is limited for this popular event.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official botanical garden in 1984. Today, the NJ Botanical Garden is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Admission to the Garden is always free.
Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
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NJBG and NY/NJ Trail Conference sponsor Winter Hike January 21, 2006, at the New Jersey Botanical Garden
On Saturday, January 21, 2006, the NJBG/Skylands Association invites you to join Gene Giordano and members of the NY/NJ Trail Conference for an introduction to hiking and a delightful walk through the Botanical Garden. Hikers should meet at 10 a.m. at the Carriage House Visitor Center, dressed appropriately for the weather.
Mr. Giordano will introduce attendees to the special requirements of winter hiking, and will structure the walk to the level of hikers attending that day. The program is free of charge, though donations are always welcomed. Active snow or rainfall cancels.
There's much to see at the Botanical Garden this time of year: plenty of birds and wildlife signs, the graceful structure of the trees made visible, and even a few hardy plants that are blooming! Winter jasmine, helebores (Christmas roses) and witchhazel are among the standouts even during the coldest winter months.
The New Jersey State Botanical Garden at Skylands, which appears on both the State and National Registers of Historic Places, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. every day of the year. Admission to the Garden is always free.
In 1966, the State of New Jersey purchased the 1,117 acres of Skylands, a former country estate and the state's first acquisition under the "Green Acres" preservation program. Governor Thomas Kean designated the central 96 acres surrounding the manor house as the State's official botanical garden in 1984. Since 1976, NJBG/Skylands Association, an incorporated, member-supported non-profit organization of volunteers, has worked with the State to preserve and protect Skylands and its historic structures. NJBG sponsors programs, concerts and events throughout the year at the Botanical Garden.
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