An update on the future of Grey Towers

Grey Towers, the locally recognized “castle on the hill,” has gone through a makeover. The baroque antique furniture that James and Mary Pinochet procured through their European travels is still showcased in the Great Hall. Gifford Pinochet’s collection of books, his office as governor, as well as his personal fly-fishing rods are still featured in his library. The sitting room is still adorned the way Gifford’s wife Cornelia originally designed it.

But there is a new spirit and new direction for Grey Towers. The ancestral home of Gifford, the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service, is the only historic site owned by the U.S. Forest Service. In September 1963, it was gifted by the family to the public. At the dedication ceremony President John F. Kennedy paid tribute: “[Gifford] believed that the riches of this continent should be used for all the people to provide a more abundant life.” Gifford’s mantra was “the greatest good for the greatest number for the longest time.”

Originally intended as an education/conference center for foresters, Grey Towers has had limited use by the public at large. That situation is about to change.

“Grey Towers is truly a treasure, not only to Milford and the surrounding area, but nationally as well”, noted Joe Koloski, newly appointed director. “It offers a unique opportunity to engage with members of the public. Not only can we tell the story of the early conservation movement and the Pinchot family’s role in it, we can also tell the story of current conservation challenges. In that vein, my goal is to position Grey Towers to be more accessible and inclusive to a larger audience.”

To that aim, the Forest Service is making some physical changes to enhance the visitor experience. Tickets will now be purchased at the Letterbox and children can enjoy an interpretive center especially for them. In addition, it will also house the new gift shop, managed by the Grey Towers Heritage Association. This outbuilding was originally used by Gifford during his two terms as governor. It also houses his original canoe which he used to fly fish on the Delaware. The Bait Box will house a collection of short original films portraying the family’s activities at their summer residence.

Grey Towers Heritage Association has also gone through major changes to meet the needs of its increasing partnership role with the Forest Service, such as an increased training for volunteers to serve in many more areas of operation, improved public information outreach with a greater online presence, and more creative programming while maintaining the classic events.

“GTHA welcomes your input and participation to provide more opportunities for the benefit of all who appreciate the importance of conservation and continuing the Pinchot legacy,” stated Eileen Smith, president.

For inquires, email info@greytowers.org.

The Forest Service and GTHA also announced the creation of the Grey Towers Legacy Scholarship fund, which will donate three, $3,000 college scholarships given annually to local and tri-state region graduating seniors to further their education at a college or trade school in areas related to the Pinchot legacy.

Other upcoming programs include “An Evening with Gifford and Teddy,” a dinner theater event taking place at the historic Hotel Fauchere on Friday, September 29. Plus, a fall display of pumpkins and more will be available for your camera adventures. The Laurel Hill Burial Ground tour is scheduled for Saturday, October 7th at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. This actor-led ticketed event begins with a presentation on Victorian funeral practices and then leads to a personalized tour of the various grave sights of prominent people, including the Pinchot family. The month rounds out with the annual Poe Readings, scheduled for October 28th in the mansion.

Finally, the Christmas Carol performance will return for its 28th season the first weekend in December.

Grey Towers Heritage Association is already planning for events for 2024 which include six new events to be held at Forest Hall as well as many new and returning events at Grey Towers. For more information, visit greytowers.org/events.

The grounds at Grey Towers NHS are always free to tour until 4:30 p.m. each day. Mansion tours are Thursday through Monday from 11 a.m. hourly with the last tour at 3 p.m.

“Grey Towers played a significant role in the beginnings of the conservation movement and I am excited to have Grey Towers continue to play a significant role in shaping and refining conservation into the future,” said Joe Koloski.