THURSDAY September 7, 2023: Westchester Sketchers at Jay Heritage Center in Rye

The Jay Estate in Rye is the childhood home of one of our nation’s greatest leaders and Founding Fathers, John Jay (1745-1829).  Thanks to the efforts of its subsequent owners who cherished it and community advocates who saved it, this sylvan and historic 23 acre oasis, once part of an expansive 400 acre farm, still boasts a magnificent view to Long Island Sound and is now open to the public.  For visitors, it provides a rare and truly breathtaking window into our past and a glimpse of the horizons that Jay and his descendants saw for our new country.

From the same spot where Jay stood to toast the end of the Revolutionary War, you can gaze out on the water and imagine the limitless possibilities that a young founding father envisioned for his nation. 

The award-winning Jay Estate Gardens not only reflect the historic context, but aim to restore native species and to cultivate an appreciation and understanding of sustainable landscapes through partnerships and public outreach.  The mansion is steps away from one of the gates to access the fenced gardens, so they cannot be missed.

DETAILS:

DATE: THURSDAY, August 31, 2023

START TIME: 10:00 AM.   

LOCATION: Jay Heritage Center  https://jayheritagecenter.org/

210 Boston Post Rd., Rye, NY 10580.  Phone: 914-698-9275.  

We'll meet at the veranda behind the house.  

DIRECTIONS: https://jayheritagecenter.org/visit/plan-your-visit/#directions
The entrance to the Jay Estate is easily recognizable as it stands within a stone wall, right next to the entrance to the Marshlands Conservancy.

The gardens are located on the East side of the property.  Park your vehicle in the visitor parking and then look for the map that gives you directions to the mansion and fenced gardens. 

By TRAIN  Transportation from Grand Central Terminal, NYC:  The nearest Metro North Train stations are Rye & Harrison (New Haven Line)  Find schedule Information  Please call Cathy to arrange for pick up and ride to the site.

LUNCH: 1:00 PM Bring your own, lunch or snack, and water.

SHOW and TELL: After lunch.  This is the social part of our day where we share our drawings, tips, and stories. It is a time not to be missed. 

NOTES:

• Grounds are open dawn until dusk.  Gardens are open 10 AM to 2 PM.
• Restrooms are available onsite, in the mansion.
• Parking is free.  
• Bring a hat, sunscreen, and tick/insect repellent.  
• Deer frequent the property.  To avoid ticks, closed shoes and long pants are recommended.  Consider tucking your pants into your socks.
• Bring a stool for the best sketching options.
• Gum chewing is not allowed while in the property.
• The Center is a take-out park – please take any litter out when you leave.

Please RSVP to Cathy (cathygutterman@verizon.net). 

Looking for us?
Call/text: Cathy at (914) 625-0766.

There are no fees. All drawing skill levels are welcome.