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
Workshop “Fourteen years with LH PRISM, fourteen Invasives: Black Jetbead”
Sunday, June 15, 2025 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
This year 2025 represents a 14-year mark and important cornerstone regarding JHC's work on environmental conservation. To celebrate this important cornerstone, along with our partnership with LH PRISM, we are setting a new goal for this year: "Fourteen years, fourteen invasives" where 14 invasive species management projects will be built into 14 workshops in the JHC's programming, as part of our Native Protection Series. Hands-on practice workshop. Please bring long pants, sunscreen and bug spray, water and snacks. Work gloves will be provided. Visit our website (
www.jayheritagecenter.org) for more information. In the event of rain this workshop may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Garden Tours and Volunteer Opportunities
Thursday, July 3, 2025 until Thursday, July 31, 2025 10:00 AM - 02:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. 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.
Garden Tours and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, July 13, 2025 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. 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.
Become a Citizen Scientist Workshop
Sunday, July 13, 2025 11:00 AM - 01:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Open to all audiences. Children-friendly activities (2 sections of 1 h sessions, starting at 11a and at 12p). Take your stroll or hike around your local parks to a brand-new level by learning about tools to help you identify species you encounter. As we face new challenges in this changing climate, join global community efforts and become a citizen scientist! Native species and wildlife protection will be discussed.
Garden Tours and Volunteer Opportunities
Sunday, July 20, 2025 10:00 AM - 05:00 PM
Jay Heritage Center
Come and discover the award-winning Jay Estate Gardens this spring! The gardens will be open to the public two days a week. Enjoy docent-led experiences or follow a self-guided tour following our QR code signs. 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.
