Many people find winter miserable. It can be hard dealing with freezing temperatures, inclement weather, and long nights. With much of the nation experiencing record-breaking cold and windchills today and the current temperature at George Washington's Ferry Farm as we publish this post only 20 degrees Fahrenheit. it may not feel like it but our … Continue reading The Hazards of Winter in Washington’s Day
human vs. nature
A History of Trees at Ferry Farm
The moment anyone mentions trees and George Washington, you probably think of the famous Cherry Tree Story. However, this tale of young George taking a hatchet to his father's cherry tree and, when confronted about the act, asserting "I cannot tell a lie" is probably just that -- a story meant to demonstrate the integrity … Continue reading A History of Trees at Ferry Farm
Our Ever Evolving Relationship with Plants
Plants have played a critical role in human survival through the ages. Although most people in the modern world do not rely on plants they gather themselves, we are surrounded by useful flora that Native Americans and later European colonists relied upon. Today, some are labeled as ‘weeds’ while the more attractive ones are propagated … Continue reading Our Ever Evolving Relationship with Plants
Photos: Our Urban Nature at Historic Kenmore
Nature shaped the lives of English colonists and enslaved Africans living and working at Kenmore Plantation 200 years ago. Over centuries, humans changed Kenmore’s natural world from a plantation setting into an urban green space. Yet, nature remains just outside the door. This past Saturday at Historic Kenmore, visitors had a chance to explore humans' … Continue reading Photos: Our Urban Nature at Historic Kenmore
Our Urban Nature: It’s Just Outside the Door
Humans are an inescapable part of nature. It shapes us and we shape it. Most of us can see this dynamic relationship when looking back 200 years. It is easier to appreciate the centrality of nature in the lives of 18th century planters, farmers, and enslaved people whose livelihoods and bellies depended on good weather … Continue reading Our Urban Nature: It’s Just Outside the Door
Lives & Legacies 