Bird Haven Farm: The Story of an Original American Garden by Janet Mavec

This program will be held in-person at the Newberry.

Bird Haven Farm tells the story of Janet Mavec's transformation of a historic property in New Jersey into a vibrant and evolving garden paradise. The book chronicles her journey from city dweller to passionate gardener, detailing the challenges and triumphs of blending the old with the new, honoring the land's history (including its connection to Nancy Drew author/publisher Harriet Stratemeyer Adams), and creating a space for community, celebration, and connection with nature. It explores the thoughtful design principles implemented by landscape architect Fernando Caruncho, the contributions of other gardening experts, and Mavec's personal evolution as a gardener and designer. Ultimately, the book celebrates the beauty and bounty of the land, emphasizing the importance of stewardship, sustainability, and sharing the garden's gifts with others. It’s a story about the evolution of a garden and its impact on the lives of those who cultivate and enjoy it. It includes recipes, beautiful photography, and thoughtful essays by contributors. Photography by Ngoc Min Ngo, menus and recipes with Gail Monaghan, essay contributions by Fernando Caruncho, Celia Hilliard, Wayne Nordberg, Stephen Orr, Lisa Stamm, and Angus Wilkie.

Speaker

Janet Mavec’s gardening life began as a child in Ohio and flourished when she moved to Bird Haven Farm in 1996. Throughout her long jewelry career, nature has served as a constant — including as a source of inspiration for her eponymous line, which features designs based exclusively on natural forms, from apples to strawberries to acorns to peapods to doves. She has served on the board of Wave Hill and with its Friends of Horticulture at Wave Hill for twenty-two years, including as chair. Bird Haven Farm has participated in The Garden Conservancy Open Days program for over twenty years.

Celia Hilliard, an independent scholar who has written and spoken extensively about the history of our city’s arts and social institutions. Celia has a particular affinity for spirited and accomplished women, a propensity kindled in part by her girlhood enthusiasm for Nancy Drew, adventurous detective. She collects early editions of the Nancy Drew stories, a literary creation of Edward Stratemeyer and his daughter Harriet, longtime owner of Bird Haven Farm. Celia will share her insights into the life and times of Harriet Stratemeyer, who found strength and inspiration in this enchanting rural retreat.

Cost and Registration

This program is free and open to all. Advance registration required.

Registration opens April 1.

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Past Public Programs

Check out video recordings of past Newberry public programs on our YouTube channel.