Grey Towers plans October walks

MILFORD — A guided walk through the Grey Towers landscape and a theatrical walking program through the Laurel Hill cemetery are planned for October at Grey Towers National Historic Site, 122 Old Owego Turnpike, Milford.
Cornelia Pinchot’s Gardens — On Saturday, Oct. 7, at 10 a.m., visitors will get an up-close look at the brilliant fall foliage in the estate gardens during “Evolution of the Grey Towers Landscape: Autumn in Cornelia’s Gardens.” The walk will feature the fabulous foliage displays of the native shrubs, the Japanese maples, and the European Copper Beeches planted by Gov. Gifford Pinchot, among other favorites.
Grey Towers Horticulturist Elizabeth Hawke will provide an inside look at how some of the landscape plants, trees and buildings were incorporated into the design of the 1886-French Chateau mansion estate by the Pinchot family.
Group size is limited and pre-registration is recommended by calling 570-296-9630. The fee, payable by cash on the day of the tour, is $8; $7 seniors.
Laurel Hill Cemetery — On Saturday, Oct. 21, at 11 a.m., a guided walk through one of Milford’s original cemeteries, the Laurel Hill cemetery located on the grounds of Grey Towers, will be conducted with a theatrical twist. Dramatic first-person readings that will “introduce” visitors to some of the individuals buried at Laurel Hill will bring their stories “to life.” Visitors also will hear about the restoration and research that is ongoing. Based on extensive research, the first-person readings will give participants a sense of what life might have been like during Milford’s early years.
Group size is limited. Pre-registration and $10 per person payment is required greytowers.org. Call 570-296-9625 with questions about the cemetery program.
For each program, participants should meet in the Visitor Pavilion in the Grey Towers parking lot. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. The walks are held rain or shine.