2021 Barns and BBQ Program Book

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9th Annual

BARNS and BBQ

JUNE 5, 2021 th

Presenting Sponsors 1


New Traditional Bank Barn by John Milner Architects — PINEMAR.NET

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W I L L I S T O W N C O N S E RVAT I O N T RU S T W E LC O M E T O

BARNS and BBQ SPRING IS IN FULL BLOOM IN THE WILLISTOWN COUNTRYSIDE. The migrating songbirds seem to be singing with more gusto than ever, the land is blanketed in varied hues of green, and the pollinators are abuzz with energy. Perhaps most remarkably, this spring season has brought a welcome sense of renewal as we begin emerging from our homes, finally able to enjoy one another’s company in person. On that note, I am so pleased to welcome you to Willistown Conservation Trust’s 9th Barns and BBQ. TODAY WE CELEBRATE THE BEAUTIFUL BARNS AND WORKING LANDS OF WILLISTOWN, as well as the landowners who helped preserve them. These landowners have generously offered us an intimate glimpse into the history of their lands and the barns that represent classic Chester County rural heritage. It’s through their stories that we learn how these lands came to be protected. Often a property has been in a family for generations, and sometimes it has been recently purchased, but in every case the owners’ desire is to protect the beauty of the land they love in perpetuity. JUST AS THESE LANDOWNERS HAVE PLANNED FOR THE FUTURE OF THEIR LANDS, the Trust is constantly planning for the future so that we may continue the good work to protect the scenic views, wildlife habitat, water quality and historic places to benefit the Willistown community and beyond. To assure that continuity, a new chapter will be taking place this coming fall. AS MANY OF YOU MAY KNOW BY NOW, on or before October 1st of this year I will be handing the responsibility of managing this wonderful organization over to Kate Etherington who will become the Trust’s next Executive Director. I am thrilled to turn this leadership role over to Kate. She is a remarkable young woman who has a deep understanding of all aspects of Willistown Conservation Trust and its mission. She holds a clear vision for the future and enjoys the full support and affection of staff, Trustees and all who know her. It gives me great comfort to know that the Trust will be in Kate’s good hands as we enter this next exciting chapter. KATE AND I ARE DEEPLY GRATEFUL TO THE MORE THAN 150 LANDOWNERS, as well as township, county and state officials who have helped to permanently protect more than 7,600 acres of this beautiful landscape over the years. Above all, we owe so much to our talented and passionate staff who have contributed to the success of our work through our bird, farm, watershed and education programs. And of course, we are eternally thankful for those of you who have supported the Trust as donors and participants in our various programs and community events to promote land conservation. PLEASE JOIN US IN THANKING THIS YEAR’S HOSTS FOR SHARING THEIR WONDERFUL BARNS AND PROPERTIES WITH US. We are gratified by the overwhelming support we receive at this event every year, and we thank you all for being part of the Willistown Conservation Trust’s 9th Barns & BBQ! Sincerely, Bonnie Van Alen & Kate Etherington

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BA R N S & B B Q C O M M I T T E E SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR BARN OWNERS Molly Love & Adrian Castelli Leanne & Rob McMenamin Jennifer & Christopher Moller Caroline Moran Amanda & Conrad Radcliffe Megan and Peter Rohr CO-CHAIRS DONNA & ROB CORRATO | LINDA & ANTHONY DIVALERIO | LORI & RYAN HEENAN COMMITTEE Rachel Coxe Shoemaker & Erich Barchi Cynthia & Tom Caruso Kate & Ben Etherington Kate & Luke Etherington Tracey & Sam Freeman Stephanie Fuller Kimberly & Russ Galligher Jodi Spragins & Brook Gardner Kat & Steve Gord Joy & John Grady Christina & Steve Graham Shaina & Nat Hamilton Erika & Azeez Hayne Nancy & Dick Klavans Sally & Joe Layden Molly Love & Adrian Castelli

Leanne & Rob McMenamin Jennifer & Christopher Moller Caroline Moran Janice & Britt Murdoch Margaret Anne & Jim Nolen Leigh & Steve Oblack Tracy & Joe Przybylowski Amanda & Conrad Radcliffe Megan and Peter Rohr Amanda & Kevin Ryan Tara & Jeff Shanahan Holly & John Stoviak Jackie & Jerry Sweeney Bonnie & Jim Van Alen Kathy & Rick Warden Effie Wister

W I L L I S T O W N C O N S E R VAT I O N T R U S T B OA R D O F T R U S T E E S Timothy B. Barnard, Esq. L. Clarke Blynn Bryan D. Colket Anthony J. DiValerio, Jr. V. Richard Eales Meg Tegler Hardesty Alice E. Hausmann William T. Howard

Elizabeth C. Hucker George F. Krall, Jr. Mark T. Ledger Lindsay Scott Leisenring Michael J. McGraw Leanne M. McMenamin Peter S. Strawbridge** John F. Stoviak, Esq.

Matthew E. Taylor James L. Van Alen II Susanna M. Wall** Richard A. Warden Jason D. Weckstein, Ph.D. Alejandro Zozaya * Honorary Trustee ** Trustee Emeritus

W I L L I S T O W N C O N S E R VAT I O N T R U S T 925 PROVIDENCE ROAD | NEWTOWN SQUARE, PA 19073 |610.353.2562 | WCTRUST.ORG

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BA R N S & B B Q S P O N S O R S Presenting

L A N D C O N S E R VAT I O N C O - S P O N S O R S

JOHN MILNER ARCHITECTS, INC. | PINEMAR, INC. H A B I TAT R E S T O R AT I O N S P O N S O R S Bank of America Private Bank Barnard, Mezzanotte, Pinnie, Seelaus, & Kraft LLP BHHS Country Properties Office - Rob Van Alen Brandywine Realty Trust Bryn Mawr Trust Cullen Construction Inc. Dutchies Stoneworks LLC E.C. Trethewey Building Contractors, Inc. F.L. Bissinger Architects Glenmede Jackson Lewis James Brown Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning, LLC King Construction Company, LLC Meadowbank Designs Mill Creek Capital Advisors, LLC Peter Zimmerman Architects Providence One Development LLC Ranieri & Kerns Associates, LLC Refugia Ltd Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr LLP Shreiner Tree Care Stoltzfus Construction of LanChester LLC Tague Lumber The Mundy Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley Warren Claytor Architects, Inc. WAT E R S H E D P RO T E C T I O N S P O N S O R S Cherokee Construction Donald Pell Gardens Griffiths Construction, Inc. LS Stone Masonry, Inc. PROGRAM SPONSORS Dewson Construction Company Kreischer Miller Period Architecture Ltd Precise Buildings, LLC Stoney Bank Nurseries, Inc. White Horse Construction, Inc. Wilmington Trust

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BA R N S & B B Q AU C T I O N Culinary Harvest Curated Cheese and Wine Pairing Private cheese tasting and wine pairing at the Rushton Conservation Center for 12 people. The tasting is curated by Culinary Harvest and will include cheeses from Chester County cheesemakers The Farm at Doe Run and Birchrun Hills Farm. Sam Kennedy, Award-winning Chester County cheesemaker and Sue Miller, cheesemaker and owner of Birchrun Hill Farm, will guide attendees through a detailed and spirited tasting of individual cheeses. They will discuss the care for their animals, farming practices, and the importance of sustainable agriculture in Chester County. This experience will be held at the Rushton Conservation Center, overlooking Rushton Farm and the Rushton Woods Preserve. A local wine collector has carefully selected fine red and white wines to complement each cheese you and your group will be tasting, rounding out this truly unique experience! Generously donated by Culinary Harvest, The Farm at Doe Run, Birchrun Hills Farm and Willistown Conservation Trust. Value: $2,850

Custom Pet Portrait by Local Artist Genevieve Synder Work with Genevieve to get the perfect photo of your pet that she will turn into an 11” x 14” oil painting on linen or board. All animal types are welcome! Genevieve was born and raised in Chester County, where she and her husband Eric still reside. From childhood, she has found joy in painting and drawing. She began her career in set design for television, but since 2005, she has focused exclusively on painting. Since that time, her award-winning paintings have been on display at juried shows and invitationals, and her work has been used for cards, posters, magazine covers and calendars, including the most recent 2020 Radnor Hunt calendar. Genevieve has been a long-time supporter of land conservation.

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Generously donated by Genevieve Snyder Value: $1,200


BA R N S & B B Q AU C T I O N A Day of Fly Fishing with Catskill Casts & Coverts Enjoy a half day of drift boat fishing with Orvis endorsed and registered fishing guide, Rick Watson, owner and proprietor of Catskill Casts and Coverts. Rick graduated from the Orvis Western Rivers Guide School in Jackson Hole Wyoming and began his guiding career in 1991. He currently guides on the Upper Delaware as well as saltwater trips in Guatemala, Belize and Florida. Winning bidder will receive a private, half-day fishing trip down the scenic Upper Delaware River bordering Pennsylvania and New York. The Upper Delaware is known for its native brown trout population. After a day on the river, the winning bidder will enjoy a one-night stay at private accommodations on the river. Food, refreshments, fishing rods, flies and equipment will be provided. A valid fishing license is required but not included. Generously donated by Catskill Casts & Coverts Value: $1,100

A Private Dinner for 12 at HiBid Farm Caroline Moran, the owner of HiBid Farm, has replaced the old working barn with an enchanting party barn that is detail-perfect for a private dinner, and it could be yours for an evening! Start off with a warm welcome by a few of our Trustees, a sampling of local cheeses, and live music by the Hetzel Brothers featuring Erik Hetzel, Director of the Trust’s Land Protection Program. A chef from Peachtree Catering will work with you to create a custom, seasonally inspired menu. If you choose to schedule your dinner during prime harvest season — July, August or September — you can incorporate fresh and organic produce from Rushton Farm into your meal. A very special friend of the Trust has donated wine from his own cellar to complement your menu. Generously donated by Caroline Moran, Jon Weinrott of Peachtree Catering and Events, Erik Hetzel, Hetzel Brothers, Willistown Conservation Trust and a special Willistown Conservation Trust supporter. Value: $5,400

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BA R N S & B B Q AU C T I O N Cocktail Party for 20 in the Radnor Hunt Race Tower Designed by John Milner Architects in 1999, the Radnor Hunt Race Tower is set in the middle of Radnor Hunt’s steeplechase track and affords a panoramic view of the Willistown countryside, featuring 104 acres of open space permanently protected by the founders of Willistown Conservation Trust. Gather a group of 20 friends and party on all three floors! The Race Tower is yours for four hours on a mutually agreed upon date. The Trust will decorate and stock the bar, Radnor Hunt will serve your choice of hors d’oeuvres, and the Hetzel Brothers will be your private band for the evening.

Generously donated by Radnor Hunt, Hetzel Brothers Band and Willistown Conservation Trust. Value: $3,000

BA R N S & B B Q AU C T I O N

Share Our Countryside THIS YEAR THE TRUST IS USING A MOBILE BIDDING PLATFORM FOR OUR AUCTION AND RAISE THE PADDLE! View auction items, place your bids

and help Raise The Paddle from your phone when the auction opens. More information coming soon in your Barns & BBQ packet. Your contributions will help us bring our programming to a broader community. The conserved lands of the Willistown area are truly a legacy to be shared throughout the Philadelphia region and beyond. With your help, we can share our countryside with more who will enjoy it, learn from it, and do their part to protect nature everywhere. 6


2021

Farm to Table Plein Air Artists will Willistown Conservation Trust has

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Photography cour tesy of : Emil y Wren Photography

Peachtree A Boutique Catering Firm on Philadelphia’s Main Line

S A L E S @ P E A C H T R E E C AT E R I N G .C O M • 4 8 4 . 5 8 0. 8 2 6 0 • @ P E A C H T R E E C AT E R I N G

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Culinary Harvest is a members-only, online farmers market composed of the finest prepared dishes, produce, cheese, breads, pantry goods, flowers and more. Our mission is to support farmers, artisans and small business owners all while bringing the best goods to Main Line residents. We add new items to our market on a weekly basis, and our members are provided with safe, convenient, contactless order pickup in the heart of Wayne every Friday.

Join the harvest www.culinaryharvest.com Gain access to our delicious, gourmet curation and take part in our pursuit to help locally-sourced food purveyors and small businesses.

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Catskill Casts & Coverts Fish by drift boat on the iconic Upper Delaware River for native Brown trout. Experience one of the East’s greatest fisheries. All trips are guided and include a field lunch. Orvis Endorsed. ABOUT YOUR GUIDE Rick Watson started his fly fishing career in 1991 at the Valley Angler on the Chagrin River and went on to graduate from the Orvis Western Rivers Guide School with the famed Bressler Outfitters in Jackson Hole Wyoming in 1993. Since then Rick has spent over two decades guiding for trout and steelhead throughout the West, Michigan, Ohio, Pennsylvania and New York. For the past eight years, Rick has fished the Upper Delaware system and now guides the entire season for West Branch Angler. In the offseason Rick guides grouse hunting trips and hosts saltwater trips to Guatemala, Belize and Florida.

Catskill Casts & Coverts

3663 COUNTY HIGHWAY 35 SIDNEY CENTER, NEW YORK 13839 (607) 435-3449

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Pennsylvania Craft Malt® Since 2012, Deer Creek Malthouse has proudly supplied high quality, flavorful malt ingredients made with grain from local farms to commercial brewers, distillers and food artisans. We offer this quality to homebakers, homebrewers, craft food and beverage enthusiasts. Our team is dedicated to supporting initiatives that improve the regional grain supply chain. All of our products are handcrafted with 100% local grain • Craft beer • Home-brew kits • Granola • Pancake mix • Rolled oats • Organic stone ground flour • And more! 12

Visit us at DeerCreekMalt.com


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NATIVE + EDIBLE LANDSCAPES RESIDENTIAL + COMMERCIAL ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION NATIVE MEADOW DESIGN + INSTALLATION

REFUGIA DESIGN/BUILD 260 Haverford Avenue, Narberth, PA 19072 267.314.SOIL refugiadesign.com 14


9.5 x 7W

          

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Protecting the present, planning for the future.

BARNARD MEZZANOTTE PINNIE SEELAUS & KRAFT, LLP LAW FIRM Real Estate, Business Law, Estate Planning, & Litigation

218 West Front Street | Media, PA 19063 | 610.565.4055 | bmplawyers.com

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A rare breed of professionals, an uncommon level of service.

PA HIC #PA9550

PROUD SUPPORTERS OF THE WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST

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851 Kimberton Road | Chester Springs PA 19425 | 610.827.7990 | www.griffithsconstruction.net E STABLI SH E D 1 9 9 2


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We're (ŐoōŅ proud Ōo to őō((oŐŌ support ĭ”Őnņő Barns && BBQ Ŀņ'Őņ ĭĭķ Event. 0vņnŌ.

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THE BARN AT SUMMERHILL 6029 GOSHEN ROAD NEWTOWN SQUARE

SUMMERHILL’S HISTORY TRACES BACK TO WILLIAM PENN WHEN, IN 1694, THOMAS BRASSEY PURCHASED 1,500 ACRES from Penn’s Commissioners of Property, creating the Brassey Tract in the southeastern corner of Willistown. John Yarnall was one of the first settlers on this tract, and in 1795 he built a 2.5-story fieldstone home for his son, Issac Yarnall, on land off of Goshen Road, a major thoroughfare at the time. Years later, in 1850, the plastered fieldstone, half-open, forebay bank barn was built for Issac Yarnall’s grandson, Issac Y. Wood, who farmed the land, producing wheat, corn, rye, oats, potatoes, hay and butter. Today, several notable historic features are still visible, including a well-preserved corn crib and one of the few remaining silos in Willistown. IN THE EARLY 1900S THE FARM WAS SOLD TO ALFRED STENGEL, a prominent Philadelphia physician who, along with his wife and three children, spent the summers on their farm at “Summerhill.” In 1906 Stengel built a large country manor home at Summerhill, with soaring ceilings and sun-drenched rooms. This elegant summer home was complemented by several outbuildings including a guest cottage, octagonal root cellar, stone garage and a life-size playhouse complete with a working fireplace. The original farmhouse and barn continued to be used for agricultural purposes late into the century, first as a working dairy farm, and later a sheep farm. AFTER ALFRED’S DEATH, THE 100-ACRE PROPERTY PASSED ON TO HIS DAUGHTER, MARTHA STENGEL MILLER. Martha began easing portions of the property over time, starting in 1978. Upon her death in 2009, Martha’s will directed, “With regard to all or any portion of real property...to establish one or more qualified Conservation easements and to donate said easements to a...land trust.” Her son Rusty Miller worked with Natural Lands to create a conservation easement for the remaining land, one that would accommodate modern living while respecting the natural resources and open space. Today the property has been divided into smaller parcels, each holding individual easements: the manor house on 20 acres, the barn and farmhouse on 20 acres owned by Molly Love and Adrian Castelli, and 20 acres of open meadow along the drive owned by Natural Lands. 22


JODI SPRAGINS

THE EASEMENTS PROTECT LARGE AREAS OF INTACT WILDLIFE HABITAT, EXTENDING THE NETWORK OF NEIGHBORING LANDS UNDER EASEMENT with Willistown Conservation Trust and Brandywine Conservancy for a number of nesting birds and other native species; to protect the quality of water within the vicinity of the property, particularly Crum Creek; and to preserve the scenic and historic resources of this special property. THE BARN AT SUMMERHILL WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THE VULTURES NESTING WITHIN ITS WALLS, THE BARN AT SUMMERHILL had been vacant for years when Molly Love and Adrian Castelli bought it in 2018. Adamant that the barn retain its original structure and purpose, the owners have been restoring it to its agricultural roots. They grow vegetables, blueberries and flowers in the greenhouse, raise bees on the hillside near the old water cistern, and allow their chickens to roam the barnyard. THE MILK HOUSE AND PONY BARN NOW SERVE AS A WORKSHOP FOR MOLLY AND ADRIAN; the two are doing much of the work on the barn themselves, including replacing the worn hayloft floors with new poplar planks and cleaning out years of dirt and debris left by the sheep and cows who once called the main barn home. Despite the renovations, the barn’s history — such as the hidden root cellar behind the large courtyard wall and the initials carved into the hayloft wall from 1854 — will remain unchanged. THANKS TO HER THOUGHTFUL AND ASTUTE DONATION, MARTHA MILLER ensured this important piece of land will remain preserved forever, and now its current residents serve as attentive stewards of its natural splendor for the next generation. 23


DUCKETT MILL FARM 988 GARRETT MILL ROAD NEWTOWN SQUARE ALONG THE ROLLING HILLS AND WINDING ROADS OF SCENIC GARRETT MILL ROAD, drivers can’t help but slow down to cross over Ridley Creek on the one-lane Garrett Mill Road Bridge. Flanked by farms on either side, the bridge was built in 1933 to replace a wooden covered bridge and is a very early example of a one-span, welded pony truss bridge. Together, the bridge, the surrounding farms and open space create scenic vistas and viewsheds that remain much as they were 150 years ago. AFTER THE BRIDGE AND AT THE END OF A LONG DIRT LANE TO DUCKETT MILL FARM, visitors are greeted by a property where history abounds. The Joseph H. Duckett House (c. 1840), the Duckett Paper Mill (c. 1839) and various outbuildings transport us to a working farm and business in the early days of Willistown. THE MILL IN 1838 JOSEPH H. DUCKETT PURCHASED 38 ACRES ON WHICH HE ERECTED A PAPER MILL THE FOLLOWING YEAR. The original mill consisted of a paper mill, a bleach house and a water house with a wheel, the ruins of which can be seen today. Additionally, Joseph bought the rights to build a dam across Ridley Creek to control the water flowing to the water wheel. He also built a raceway that can be seen coming through the woods before it diverts underground, ultimately leading to the ruins of the water wheel race. At the time of its construction, the 30-foot water wheel was the largest in the state. Unfortunately Joseph suffered many financial setbacks while building the mill, resulting in several liens from unpaid contractors and finally a sale to John B. Duckett, who renamed the mill Forest Mills Paper Company. BY 1850 THE MILL PRODUCED VARIOUS PRODUCTS INCLUDING WRITING, PRINTING, WRAPPING AND ENVELOPE PAPERS. Most notably, Forrest Mills Paper Company made 30 tons of special paper used to cover the roof of Horticultural Hall, erected in Fairmount Park for the 1876 Centennial Exposition. 25 years later, a disastrous fire forced the temporary closure of the paper mill and subsequent sale to Lewis Cullen who made significant improvements to both dam and mill. The ultimate demise of the mill in 1927 was caused primarily by severe drought, and Ridley Creek was pumped dry to satisfy the water needs of the Borough of West Chester. 24


THE MILLER’S COTTAGE

THE MILLER’S COTTAGE THE 2.5-STORY “MILLER’S COTTAGE” MADE OF FIELDSTONE HAS BEEN LOVINGLY RESTORED to its humble roots with the help of Warren Claytor Architects. Stepping inside, one can imagine what life was like in an early Chester County home. Corner fireplaces on each floor provided warmth, and the curved window jambs added interesting texture to the otherwise boxy structure. The north-side window on the first floor features one of the few remaining pay drawers in Chester County. Pay drawers were usually found in houses associated with large working farms or mills to distribute payroll to their workers. THIS TIMBER-FRAMED, STONE BANK BARN WITH ITS CLOSED FOREBAY OVERLOOKS THE ADJACENT FIELDS BORDERED BY RIDLEY CREEK. Once home to horses, mules, cattle and swine, the barn’s residents now include two donkeys, two driving ponies, antique pony carriages and a former competitive show hunter. RIDLEY CREEK, A MAJOR TRIBUTARY OF THE DELAWARE RIVER, FLOWS THROUGH THE WOODLAND AND ALONG THE PROPERTY. The conservation easement preserves the open space and natural woodlands along the riverbank, allowing native flora and fauna to thrive and creating an important riparian buffer that contributes to a healthy and robust water system. OWNERS ROB AND LEANNE MCMENAMIN HAVE WORKED DILIGENTLY with Willistown Conservation Trust to ensure that this remarkable place — with its natural beauty, historical importance and connection to neighboring conserved lands, woodlands and streams — will be protected in perpetuity. 25


GRAMERCY FARM

7126 GOSHEN ROAD NEWTOWN SQUARE

WHEN JENNIFER AND CHRIS MOLLER PURCHASED THIS BEAUTIFUL PROPERTY IN 1997, they were already committed to the idea of conservation, considering Jennifer had witnessed a family farm from her childhood turned into a development. Following such a pivotal moment, she had vowed not to let that happen to a farm of her own. The Mollers’ conservation mindset aligned with that of the sellers, and the Mollers were happy to purchase the property and donate a conservation easement to Willistown Conservation Trust. THE MOLLERS TOOK STOCK OF THE PROPERTY, A TRADITIONAL CHESTER COUNTY FARM THAT HAD BEEN ALTERED AND RENOVATED in a hodgepodge fashion over the years, and had once been listed for sale in Benjamin Franklin’s newspaper, the Pennsylvania Gazette. An inspection report declared the barn to be structurally unsound and recommended that it be demolished. Jennifer, who has a background in architecture, knew that she wanted to find a way to salvage and recover the simple, humble proportions of the original 18th century structures that had endured a variety of piecemeal changes over the years. They worked on both house and out-house buildings with builder Mark Slouf and what the Mollers describe as “an extraordinary team of artisans and craftspeople,” in a partnership that has spanned almost two decades.

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THE BARN IS A CLASSIC EXAMPLE OF A “DOUBLE DECKER”: A TRIPLE-LEVELED BANK BARN STRUCTURE THAT EVOLVED IN SOUTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIA IN THE LATE 18TH CENTURY. The bank-side bridge leads into the uppermost level of the barn, a labor-saving design permitting farmers to pitch bales more easily down into two symmetrical “sink mows,” instead of having to pile them from the ground up. A granary in the center of the second level, directly below the threshing floor, connected via chutes to the lowest, south-facing level, where animals were kept. A wooden forebay had been added to the barn around 1850, and although this was both utilitarian and consistent with the look of other 19th century barns in Chester County, the Mollers recognized that it was not authentic, and had it removed. Slouf rebuilt the south-facing overhang with wood repurposed from the forebay and reinforced by refurbished conical piles. PERHAPS THE MOST UNIQUE FEATURE IS THE CUSTOM LIBRARY BUILT IN THE BARN TO HOUSE CHRIS’ EXTENSIVE BOOK COLLECTION. Slouf designed and built a library that pays homage to a collegiate library with its shape and simultaneously reflects Chester County though its use of materials and design. Slouf used original barn material to craft everything in the library; a table was built from old granary boards, steps and treads were sourced from an old threshing floor and ceiling joists come from old Pennsylvania barns. Hardware was reproduced as needed, and as in the house, many of the interesting design details incorporate items collected by the Mollers on their many travels to France. Designed to be a box within a box, the entire library can be dismantled, leaving the barn restoration intact should a future owner decide to repurpose the barn for agricultural pursuits. THE PROTECTED PROPERTY on which the barn stands is a showcase for native grasses, a case study in land use befitting both the farm’s agricultural past and its enduring future. 27


OHANA FARM 155 DAVIS ROAD MALVERN

ALTHOUGH THE FARM HAS HAD MANY NAMES SINCE ITS CONSTRUCTION, OHANA BEST CAPTURES THE INVITING AND LOVING ATMOSPHERE THE RADCLIFFES HAVE CREATED OVER THE PAST FIVE YEARS. Named in honor of their son’s favorite movie, "Lilo & Stitch," Ohana means “family” in Hawaiian, and as their son quotes from the movie, “Family means no one is left behind or forgotten.” THE BARN AT OHANA FARM HAS A RICH HISTORY, FROM ITS EARLY BEGINNINGS AS A DAIRY FARM TO TRANSFORMING INTO THE PRODUCTION STUDIO OF A FAMOUS HOLLYWOOD DIRECTOR. The barn is a typical Chester County bank barn, constructed of fieldstone to the eaves and board and batten to the ridge, with an extended forebay. Situated on the eastern side of the house, a cistern in the upper woodlands once provided water to the livestock below. THE REAL ESTATE LISTING FOR THE RICHARD ROBINSON HOUSE (C. 1805) AND FARM IN 1811 DESCRIBES THE LAND AS “36 ACRES of excellent woodland, a few acres of watered meadow…a branch of Crum Creek…the buildings are all built of stone and well finished…the barn is of modern construction and capacious. Upon the premises is a young and flourishing apple orchard” ("Acres of Quakers"). Amazingly over 200 years later, thanks to careful preservation and stewardship of its grounds, these descriptions still apply, including the original 1805 farmhouse.

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THE BARN’S HAYLOFT BOASTS SCREENING ROOMS, WHERE PREVIOUS OWNER M. NIGHT SHYAMALAN HOUSED HIS PRODUCTION STUDIO. Now one screen shares real estate with hay that feeds the draft and mini horses that live in the stalls below. Three grazing pastures accommodate the horses, and a smaller pasture and run-in shed are home to babydoll sheep and goats, all named after characters from their son’s favorite movies. An attached cottage provides space for their adult daughters and guests to stay when they visit, and the carriage house nearby is used as a wood shop. The Radcliffe family has taken on many projects themselves; however, the house was renovated with the help of John Milner Architects and Cherokee Construction, and the landscaping was designed and installed by Johnathan Alderson Landscape Architects and Cotswold Garden. THE BEAUTIFUL GROUNDS INCLUDE AN OLD GROWTH APPLE ORCHARD, WHICH GROWS SEVEN VARIETIES OF APPLES. Every fall, the family harvests the apples to produce cider and apple butter with the help of students with specific needs from Melmark and other local schools. The 2-story spring house was recently renovated by the owners and filled with unique finds from the old privy pit discovered on the property, including many bottles and other artifacts now on display. The spring leads down to a pond, flanked by grassy meadows and rolling hills. THE PROPERTY INCLUDES 10 ACRES OF PERMANENTLY CONSERVED LAND that was originally part of the 40-acre field owned by horse breeder and local equestrian Mimi Thorington. When these 40 acres were saved from development by three neighbors — George Clement, Gregory Russell and Jerome Keough — the property was conserved under easement by Willistown Conservation Trust. The Radcliffes’ 10 conserved acres preserve an important equestrian trail and large patchwork of greenway in Willistown. Those 10 acres are part of the Radcliffes’ larger 80-acre property, which provides ample open space and woodlands for local wildlife to thrive while enhancing the scenic country vistas for which Willistown is known. 29


DERRYBAWN 147 DAVIS ROAD MALVERN A MAPLE-TREE-LINED DRIVE WINDS TO THE TOP OF AN OPEN GRASSY FIELD, OFFERING VISITORS A BEAUTIFUL PANORAMIC VIEW OF CHESTER COUNTY, one that prominently features the 40-acre field once owned by horse breeder and local equestrian Mimi Thorington. It’s there that Megan and Peter Rohr built their home in 2007. MEGAN HAS ALWAYS BEEN FAMILIAR WITH THE 40-ACRE FIELD. She grew up next door at her childhood home, “Glendalough,” named for the monastic site in Wicklow County, Ireland, meaning “Glen of the Lakes,” and in reference to the two ponds on the property. Her father, Jerome Keough, still resides here at Glendalough, and he played a pivotal role in the effort to save the neighboring 40-acre field from development, thus preserving its rural character in perpetuity.

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IN 1999, IN RESPONSE TO AN APPROVED 9-LOT SUBDIVISION PLAN, THREE NEIGHBORS — GEORGE CLEMENT, GREGORY RUSSELL AND JEROME KEOUGH — came together to purchase the 40 acres being sold by Mrs. Thorington. The land was divided among the neighbors into 3 parcels and placed under conservation easement with Willistown Conservation Trust, forever protecting the open field and establishing a trail easement for equestrian access. The 40 acres contain natural ecosystems harboring an impressive and broad range of habitats for its relatively small size; mature woodlands, open grasslands, wetlands, ponds and streams support all sorts of diverse plants and animals. WHEN MEGAN AND PETER LATER BOUGHT A 20-ACRE PORTION OF THE FIELD, they named it “Derrybawn,” which translates to “white oak” and fittingly shares a name with the district that neighbors Glendalough in Ireland. Today, Megan and Peter are dedicated stewards of the property. ACROSS THE ROLLING FIELD, THE ROHRS HAVE BUILT A BEAUTIFUL BARN WITH A SIMPLE PURPOSE: to serve as a storage place for tools, bicycles, two John Deere tractors, a vintage Land Rover Defender and a handsome Aston Martin. Designed by Archer & Buchanan and built by Martin J. Cappelletti Custom Builders, this barn is a wonderful example of classic barn design with utilitarian function. Thanks to the foresight and partnership of these neighbors, and the careful stewardship of subsequent owners like Megan and Peter, this land continues to contribute to the ecological, historic and scenic resources within Willistown Township. 31


BRYN CLOVIS ANNEX AT BRUSHWOOD STABLE 745 SUGARTOWN ROAD MALVERN IN 1981, FOUNDERS OF WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST LEARNED THAT THE OWNER OF THE “HUNDRED ACRE FIELD” — located off of Sugartown Road — was seeking Township approval for an 82-unit housing subdivision, complete with proposals for extensive public water and sewer. With the assistance of local attorney Peter Somers, the founders organized a partnership of friends and neighbors — Willistown Land Associates LP — to acquire and permanently protect the property with a conservation easement. Thanks to its novel innovation, this conservation-minded, community partnership ultimately served as a model for the 5,000-acre King Ranch in Unionville.

JUSTIN THOMPSON

MRS. J. MAXWELL (BETTY) MORAN, ONE OF THE PRIMARY PARTNERS OF WILLISTOWN LAND ASSOCIATES, PURCHASED THE HUNDRED ACRE FIELD FROM THE GROUP IN 1983. The land is now part of Brushwood Stable, site of the Bryn Clovis Barn. The farm once functioned as home and nursery to the Thoroughbred mares and foals bred by Mrs. Moran as part of her renowned Brushwood Stable. In fact, Mrs. Moran purchased the Bryn Clovis Annex with the purse money from the 1985 Belmont Stakes, won by her record-holding horse, Creme Fraiche.

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MARY HUNT DAVIS PHOTOGRAPHY

HORSES ARE NOT THE FIRST ANIMALS TO OCCUPY THE MAGNIFICENT BLYN CLOVIS BARN, BUILT IN THE EARLY 20TH CENTURY. Formerly devoted to dairy production, this barn also once housed the legendary Ardrossan beagles. A more recent renovation provided for the present-day layout of horse stalls, supply rooms and tack rooms. Next to the barn stands a run-in shed set into the hillside, designed by John Milner Architects to complement the barn and the sweeping hilltop views. With its signature eyebrow dormers and thoughtful design, this run-in shed was the 1994 winner of the Main Line Builders Association Honor Award. A SMALL PLOT OF LAND — MARKED BY THE STUMP OF A 300-YEAR-OLD OAK THAT USED TO TOWER OVER THE ORIGINAL HUNDRED ACRE FIELD — is the resting place for Mrs. Moran’s many beloved race horses, including Creme Fraiche. “He always loved it here, and now he can enjoy this spot forever,” said Mrs. Moran. Thanks to her commitment to conservation, so too can future generations of horses and people alike. SADLY, BETTY PASSED IN JANUARY OF 2020, LEAVING BEHIND A LASTING LEGACY OF PHILANTHROPY AND LAND PROTECTION. Over the past 40 years, she played a significant role in helping maintain Willistown’s rural character, having participated in numerous land protection partnerships that saved beautiful parcels of land from development. She went on to become a lead investor in 14 additional partnerships to purchase, preserve and resell properties that would have otherwise succumbed to development. With Betty’s direct support, the Willistown area was able to conserve over 2,000 acres of land. TODAY, THE BARN AT BRYN CLOVIS SITS EMPTY, AND ITS ONCE ACTIVE HORSE FIELDS ARE NOW FILLED WITH ROWS OF CORN. The property remains an important equestrian site, providing extensive trails for local riders. Future plans for the barn remain unknown, but thanks to the Moran family, this very special place will be preserved for generations to come. 33


9th Annual

BARNS and BBQ

Derrybawn

Ohana Farm

Bryn Clovis

Opens at 5:00 pm

Gramercy Farm

Duckett Mill Farm a few

REQUESTS 34

RUSHTON CONSERVATION CENTER

• Please leave your dogs at home • Dress for chilly & wet spring weather; the BBQ will be outside • Since you’ll be walking in animal pastures with uneven footing, sensible shoes are recommended


PLAN YOUR DAY TOUR | 2:00 TO 5:00 PM THE BARN AT SUMMERHILL Molly Love and Adrian Castelli 6029 Goshen Road Newtown Square DUCKETT MILL FARM Leanne and Rob McMenamin 988 Garrett Mill Road Newtown Square GRAMERCY FARM Jennifer and Christopher Moller 7126 Goshen Road Newtown Square OHANA FARM Amanda and Conrad Radcliffe 155 Davis Road Malvern DERRYBAWN Megan and Peter Rohr 147 Davis Road Malvern

TAILGATE | 5:00 TO 8:00 PM

The Barn at Summerhill

BRYN CLOVIS Caroline Moran 745 Sugartown Road Malvern

• Bathrooms are available at the Rushton Conservation Center (915 Delchester Road) • Only the barns are open for touring • Please wear your wristband—it is your admission ticket 35


Proudly Supporting Willistown Conservation Trust

Rob Van Alen (610) 212-5470 robvanalen@gmail.com Jody Vandegrift (484) 354-2474 jody@thecountryproperties.com

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Office: (610) 347-2065

1689 West Doe Run Road Unionville, PA


Redefining the Building Experience cullenconstructioninc.com

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StoneyBank N U R S E R I E S the fine art of landscape design

Our award winning designers are transforming landscapes... creating native, contemporary and romantic gardens where dreams are realized through horticultural craftsmanship and innovative design. v i s i t u s o n l i n e a t s t o n e y b a n k n u r s e r i e s . c o m A Complete Design-Build Company 61 Stoney Bank Road Glen Mills, PA 19342

ph610-459-5100

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DONALD PELL | G A R D E N S 40

l a n d s c a p e

d e s i g n

donaldpell.com


Builder of meticulously crafted homes. Additions | Renovations | New Construction 302.427.2250 | www.dewsonconstruction.com

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The strength of a community is the contribution of people who care We’re proud to support Willistown Conservation Trust

At Bank of America Private Bank, we admire your passion, dedication and all you do for others. We’re committed to helping you make a difference that’s lasting and meaningful. To learn how we can help you pursue your goals, please contact: Rob McMenamin Managing Director 610.567.4702 rob.mcmenamin@bofa.com 300 Conshohocken State Road Suite 600 Conshohocken, PA 19428

Bank of America Private Bank is a division of Bank of America, N.A., Member FDIC and a wholly owned subsidiary of Bank of America Corporation. Investment products:

Are Not FDIC Insured Are Not Bank Guaranteed May Lose Value 42© 2021 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved. | MAP3567849 | AD-04-21-1339


690 Sugartown Road | Malvern, PA 19355 484.881.2729 | providenceonebuilders.com

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www. pe r i od a rch i t e c t u re l t d . c om


SETTING THE STANDARD SINCE 1978 Complete design services and fine craftsmanship Custom barns, arenas, outbuildings and living quarters

1-888-354-4740 | www.kingbarns.com

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Using Building Methods That Stand The Test Of Time,

FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

Horse Barns • Riding Arenas • Bank Barns Garages • Agricultuaral Buildings

White Horse Construction, Inc Parkesburg, Pa 19365 ph: 610-593-5559

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PA013217

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Thinking about a beautiful timeless outdoor living space? Tap into our Passion and Creativity to make it happen!!

The timeless beauty of Natural stone simply cannot be replicated with manufactured products.

• Beauty • Excellence • Craftsmanship

Call Dave Fisher

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Jackson Lewis is proud to support the

Preservation of Open Space and the Work of Willistown Conservation Trust

With 800 attorneys in major locations throughout the U.S. and Puerto Rico, Jackson Lewis provides the resources to address every aspect of the employer-employee relationship.

Gary M. Tocci • Jackson Lewis P.C. 1601 Cherry Street, Suite 1350 • Philadelphia, PA 19102 (267) 319-7823 • gary.tocci@jacksonlewis.com 50

ATTORNEY ADVERTISING © 2018 Jackson Lewis P.C.

www.jacksonlewis.com


Photos: Sally Layden

“When you think about it, there really isn’t a lot you leave your children; you raise them and give them your name, but to leave open space that no one will ever take away? That to me is a great gift.” - Lida Wright, Mother, Grandmother, Champion of the Willistown Countryside

The choices we make today – to preserve our land, to protect natural resources and to support land conservation – will largely determine the future of this remarkable countryside. Create a lasting, real impact through a legacy gift to the Willistown Conservation Trust. Help us ensure that the future will be able to enjoy the same beautiful, natural places that you have. Protecting land, water and wildlife can make a lasting impression that will positively impact generations to come. Be a part of this great movement and help the Trust secure the future of conservation. If you are interested in learning more or you have already included Willistown Conservation 51 Trust in your plans, please contact Chelsea Heck at cmh@wctrust.org.


WHAT WILL YOU DISCOVER? Dive into our local streams and see what lives there. Inspire yourself by learning something new through one of our educational programs. Seek out adventure at one of our three nature preserves. Create a wildlife sanctuary on your property through conservation easements and landscaping with native plants. Observe migratory birds up close at our Rushton Woods Preserve Banding Station. Volunteer at Rushton Farm to gain an understanding of how regenerative agriculture sustains people and the surrounding natural ecosystem. Explore how the Trust is contributing to bird conservation on a global scale through our Northeast Motus Collaboration Wildlife Tracking System. Reconnect with our community of conservationists at an upcoming event. Your generous contribution will ensure that the Trust continues to conserve our natural world for future generations.

Donors like you provide the funds necessary to sustain existing programs and develop innovative new projects that help address the larger threats facing our precious natural world - so that people and nature can continue to thrive together. Please make a donation to our Annual Fund today at wctrust.org/donate/.

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| A N N UA L F U N D


Brandywine believes in the power of green space, so we’re delighted to support Willistown Conservation Trust’s commitment to preserving the area’s most beautiful open spaces.

2929 Walnut St, Suite 1700 | Philadelphia, PA 19104

(610) 325-5600 | brandywinerealty.com 53


Histor ic Pr eservation | Custom Home Building | A dditions | R enovations | K itchens & Baths

B U I LDI NG W I T H P A S S ION.

54D o w n i n g t o w n ,

Pennsylvania

• 484.593.0334

• www.ectbuilDers.com


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The Mundy Wealth Management Group at Morgan Stanley is proud to support

Willistown Conservation Trust Emily E. Endres, CFP®, CDFA® Financial Advisor 899 Cassatt Road, Suite 100 Berwyn, PA 19312 610-408-1993 william.mundy@morganstanley.com advisor.morganstanley.com/ the-mundy-wealth-management-group

William H. Mundy, CRPC® Family Wealth Director Insurance Planning Director Portfolio Management Director Senior Vice President Financial Advisor

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S. The use of the CDFA™ designation does not permit the rendering of legal advice by Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors which may only be done by a licensed attorney. The CDFA™ designation is not intended to imply that either Morgan Stanley or its Financial Advisors are acting as experts in this field. SUP001 CRC 2639194 08/19 © 2020 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.

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The Power of Collaboration. We proudly support the Conservation, Ecological and Environmental Initiatives of the Willistown Conservation Trust John F. Stoviak, Partner Centre Square West 1500 Market Street, 38th Floor Philadelphia, PA 19102 (215) 972-1095

saul.com

Gregory J. Davis, Partner 1200 Liberty Ridge Drive Suite 200 Wayne, PA 19087-5569 (610) 251-5065 57


PZArchitects.com | 610.647.6970 58


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BUILDING MATERIALS DISTRIBUTION

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PR OUDLY SUPPORTING THE WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST


901 Camaro Run Drive West Chester, PA 19380

I

STONE

MASONBYinc.

610-889-7495 Construction

& Restoration

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Experience Our Difference...

Caring for the Main Line’s Trees Since 1986

Steve Shreiner, President ISA Master Certified Arborist PD#0090B Radnor High School Graduate

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Please Call or Text: (610) 265-6004 ShreinerTreeCare.com


Building your dreams

PRESERVING YOUR LEGACY.

From concept to completion › Horse barns

› Garages

› Bank barns

› Restoration

› Indoor Arenas

› and more

717.768.3200 precisebuildings.com 63


Kreischer Miller is Proud to Support Willistown Conservation Trust

Barns and BBQ ChrisStephen Meshginpoosh, W. Christian, CPA, CPA, Managing Director Director Audit & Accounting Tax Strategies Business Advisory Human Capital Resources 64

Technology Solutions

100 Witmer Road Suite 350 Horsham, PA 19044 215.441.4600 www.kmco.com


ideas ideals impact Glenmede is proud to support

WILLISTOWN CONSERVATION TRUST

Glenmede was created as an independent trust company nearly 60 years ago to serve as investment manager and trustee of the Pew family’s charitable interests –The Pew Trusts. Today, we manage $40 billion for endowments, foundations, high-net-worth individuals and families, and institutional clients. Please contact Laura LaRosa at 215-419-6027 or laura.larosa@glenmede.com for a personal conversation.

glenmede.com

@glenmede /company/glenmede

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