Sunday, October 8: Pottery Slam, Historical Pottery Exhibit, and Live Bluegrass!

On Sunday, October 8, three talented local ceramists—Aimee Mower Lally, Petra Pankow, and Jennifer Evans Arbo— worked with different methods, and showcased their different techniques and craft. An exhibit of 18th and 19th century New Jersey redware and stoneware, pottery for sale, clay and other crafts for kids, and shopping at our beautiful Country Store highlighted the afternoon. Plus, live bluegrass music featuring musicians from Blue Plate Special put a spring in everyone's step.

"Apple Cider Making in Old Maplewood" printed in the Village Green.

"Apple Cider Making in Old Maplewood," a wonderful piece about Durand-Hedden's kickoff event of the 2023-2024 season was just printed in the Village. Enjoy this wonderful look at the event, along with great photos, written by Lisa Mainardi.

Spinning, weaving, and sheep shearing was a popular draw at Durand-Hedden on April 23, 2023

While the week began with predictions of rain, Sunday, April 23, proved to be a beautiful spring day -- perfect for walks in Grasmere Park, watching sheep being sheared, and watching weavers and spinners are work.

Margaret Quinn delighted children and adults alike as she expertly gave the sheep in attendance (Daisy, Myrtle and Cookie) their spring haircuts, using only manual shears.

Visitors were also able to watch weavers and spinners at work in the house, and members of the Essex County Spinners set up shop by our historic hearth.

Special thanks to Board Member Patty Chrisman who led the organization of the event and is a member of the Essex County Spinners.

Aurora Harrington and high schooler Samara Berg ran children’s activities, while Marilyn Schnaars greeted visitors at the house and Leesa Anderson welcomed shoppers to our Country Store.

It was a wonderful event made possible by Durand-Hedden's enthusiastic all-volunteer Board as well as the support of our SOMA community and beyond.