Fall Greetings From the Executive Director

Dutton Farmhouse surrounded by fall foliage

Fall has always been my favorite time of year. The air is crisp, the leaves are transforming and the heirloom apples are at peak perfection. It's an amazing time to enjoy the outdoors or cozy up inside with a great read by a fire. Recently, while enjoying some tea on the porch of the Dutton Farmhouse, I came across a great article in the New York Times which featured our very own Board President, William (Bill) Flynt. 

Bill is a historical consultant who practices dendrochronology, a method of dating houses by studying tree-ring patterns in the timbers used to build them. The technique involves drilling pencil-sized cores from the wood in the  house, sanding them down and comparing them via computer programs to  electronic databases of ring patterns from the region. The results often indicate the year the wood was cut, and even the season.

Not surprisingly, most historic houses rarely prove to be quite as old as their owners think they are, Mr. Flynt said. He has surveyed more than 250 buildings and other structures throughout the Northeast. This fascinating work has helped homeowners piece together a little bit more of the history of their unique homes and properties. As we expand our portfolio of properties, we hope to utilize Bill's unique skill set when needed.

Appreciatively,
Susan McMahon
Executive Director
The Landmark Trust USA