2025 Geocache Challenge
The 23-acre Jay Estate in Rye is one of two family homes of American founding father John Jay (1745-1829) located in Westchester. Jay was a noted jurist, peacemaker, governor and anti-slavery advocate. The site, which overlooks Long Island Sound is part of the Boston Post Road Historic District, a National Historic Landmark and a stop on Westchester County's African American Heritage Trail. It is also one of 100 top attractions in the Hudson River Valley National Heritage Area.
The Jay Estate has three owners: 21.5 acres have been owned by New York State Parks in conjunction with Westchester County Parks since 1997. The not-for-profit organization, the Jay Heritage Center (JHC) owns the 1838 Greek Revival mansion, and 1.5 acres of land around it. The 1907 Van Norden Carriage House is a second building being restored by JHC; it serves as the Jay Estate Visitor and Education Center.
Under a 2013 agreement, the Jay Estate is managed by JHC for New York State and Westchester County as dedicated parkland. It is used for recreation and hosts programs about American history, social justice, architecture and conservation. The restoration of historic gardens and a 1917 Tennis House are ongoing projects and when finished will be exciting resources for the public.
For hours of operating and other visiting information, please visit: jayheritagecenter.org
Garden Tours and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, October 12, 2025 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
(Closed Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend) Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this fall! Our gardens are constantly changing and the fall is the perfect time to stop by for a visit. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our
website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Registration: Required
Garden Tours and Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, October 16, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this fall! Our gardens are constantly changing and the fall is the perfect time to stop by for a visit. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our
website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Registration: Required
Porcelain Berry and Honeysuckle Workshop
Sunday, October 19, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
In collaboration with the Lower Hudson Partnership for Regional Invasive Species Management (LH PRISM) and their ISF crew, this hands-on practice workshop is designed to understand the importance of native species protection, through invasive species education and control. Invasive species like black jetbead, wineberry, mugwort, Japanese knotweed, porcelain berry and Japanese honeysuckle will be targeted and removed by hand in several areas to protect other native species; learn how to properly identify and remove them. Bring long pants, sunscreen and bug spray, water and snacks. Work gloves will be provided. Please be aware that poison ivy, ticks and other insects may be present in the area as we will be working off-path. Please email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.In the event of rain this workshop may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Garden Tours and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, October 19, 2025 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
(Closed Indigenous Peoples' Day weekend) Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this fall! Our gardens are constantly changing and the fall is the perfect time to stop by for a visit. Drop in for a lesson, talks, and workshops led by JHC's Director of Horticulture and Garden Education, Lucia Maestro and special guest speakers. Please visit our
website or email Lucia for more information: hortdirector.JHC@gmail.com.
Registration: Required
Seed Harvest & Plant Propagation Workshop
Sunday, October 19, 2025 01:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Saving seeds and learning when and how to propagate your perennial plants can help you save money, while you grow your garden with all your favorite plants. Learn about seed saving and plant propagation and division using as an example some of our very own native species on display in the Jay Gardens. Hands-on practice workshop.
