The Princeton Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will present its National Conservation Award to D&R Greenway Land Trust on March 15.
The public ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. at the Johnson Education Center in Princeton and will include a panel discussion on preserving Revolutionary-era landscapes ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.
The award recognizes organizations that demonstrate leadership in conserving historically and environmentally significant land while promoting education and public engagement connected to the nation’s heritage.
Claudia Wilson Anderson, representing the Princeton Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, said the group is pleased to recognize the organization’s work protecting open space and historic landscapes.
“The Princeton Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution looks forward to honoring D&R Greenway Land Trust with the DAR Conservation Award, recognizing their exceptional commitment to preserving open space and protecting the natural landscapes that define our region,” Anderson said.
D&R Greenway has spent decades preserving land tied to the American Revolution and other historic moments in New Jersey. The organization was founded in Mercer County in 1989 and has permanently protected nearly 23,000 acres across 332 properties, including more than 50 miles of publicly accessible trails.
Many of those preserved lands are historically significant locations connected to the Continental Army and key figures of the American Revolution.
Linda J. Mead, president and CEO of D&R Greenway Land Trust, said the recognition comes at a meaningful time as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
“To walk in the footsteps of our nation’s founding fathers, on the very same ground where our Democracy began, is inspirational,” Mead said.
“To be recognized for playing a part in preserving hallowed ground during America’s 250th Anniversary of our nation’s founding motivates us to continue to march forward in our mission to preserve and care for land.”
The March 15 program will feature several speakers discussing historic preservation and the conservation of Revolutionary-era landscapes.
Avril Moore, former owner of the historic Tusculum estate built by Declaration of Independence signer John Witherspoon, will discuss the restoration of the mansion and efforts to preserve the surrounding historic landscape in partnership with D&R Greenway.
Donna Lazartic will describe efforts to protect land along the Washington-Rochambeau National Historic Trail in Bridgewater where Continental and French troops marched during the Revolutionary War.
Philip S. Getty, a geologist, will present research conducted at Hillside Farm in Hopewell that suggests the site served as a large Continental Army encampment of more than 10,000 troops on their way to the Battle of Monmouth in June 1778.
One of D&R Greenway’s newest preservation initiatives is the Betty Wold Johnson Hillside Farm Preserve in Hopewell, an approximately 800-acre property connected to Revolutionary War history and the route of troops traveling to the Battle of Monmouth.
Richard F. Veit, provost and senior vice president for academic affairs at Monmouth University, praised the organization’s work protecting historic landscapes across the state.
“D&R Greenway Land Trust is a relentless force for good in New Jersey. This is evidenced by the organization’s tireless efforts to preserve important historic landscapes across the state,” Veit said.
“D&R Greenway’s most exciting new initiative is the creation of The Betty Wold Johnson Hillside Farm Preserve in Hopewell, New Jersey. This Preserve saves some 800 acres of land that are associated with the American Revolution and the Battle of Monmouth.”
“I am honored to support the work of D&R Greenway Land Trust, an invaluable New Jersey organization that is helping preserve history and make our state a better place to live and work,” Veit said.
The presentation will take place at the Johnson Education Center, 1 Preservation Place, Princeton. Seating is limited and reservations are requested in advance at drgreenway.org. A suggested $10 donation will support D&R Greenway’s stewardship and educational programs.
Colonial Celebration with New Jersey Fifes and Drums at Hillside Farm in Hopewell.,
Historic Tusculum
