The Fells Garden Tour

The John Hay Estate at The Fells - August 1, 2024

Burlington Garden Club members and friends enjoyed a picture perfect summer day at The Fells in Newbury, NH walking through the peaceful landscape of this historic site on August 1st. We toured the “old” gardens established soon after the house was built, mostly shaded today (the rhododendrons must be amazing early in the season!). The walled garden, the only spot to see a view of Lake Sunapee featured an old hydrangea vine and a more formal gardens with open lawn. The sloped rock gardens were accessible with stone paths with chairs below. Everyone was able to relax on the veranda after the tours, soaking in what it might have been like to be there at the turn of the century.

The main house offered an in-depth look into the life and career of John M. Hay (1838-1905), statesman and diplomat, and devotee of Abraham Lincoln since serving as his secretary in Lincoln’s first term. His heirs continued to summer at The Fells, adding the more delightful gardens. Now the property is operated as a non-profit open to visitors for tours and events. It was an interesting and fun day!

The day was magnificently organized by Sarah Sprayregen. We enjoyed a premier bus ride to New Hampshire and before heading back to Vermont, we enjoyed a  lakeside lunch at Bubba's Bar and Grille on Lake Sunapee. This event raised $1,300 dollars for the BGC and was a lot of fun.