Ten Chimneys Foundation has begun a grand new endeavor, to renew the country estate's agricultural landscape back to its original splendor. As stewards of Ten Chimneys, our goal is not only to preserve the grounds of this historic estate, but also to do it all with Lunt-like care and attention. Our modern-day tending of the Lunts' historic garden will be no exception.
More than seventy-four years ago, Alfred began his garden and over time a large assortment of vegetables, flowers, fruit trees and bushes were planted. Today, that very same plot of land has been unearthed and, we hope, will reap a bountiful crop. In the tradition that was the Lunts', Ten Chimneys Foundation will be donating all of the produce to food pantries in Waukesha and Milwaukee counties.
The physical restoration of Alfred's garden began three weeks ago when Ten Chimneys Invasive Species Volunteers cleared the land to prepare it for tilling and planting. Their work was laborious and plenty, and we couldn't have done this project without their assistance. The land was then tilled and made ready for planting. On June 6th, Ten Chimneys Foundation staff and volunteers gathered for the historic first planting in Alfred's beloved garden. We planted heirloom varieties of cucumber, spinach, squash, kale, zucchini, and onions, all produce our local food pantries suggested would help their cause. As this historic first planting came to an end, sunshine poured down on the garden, and we couldn't help but think that Alfred would be pleased with all that's taking place. The work on the garden has continued, and on June 11th, we welcomed Oconomowoc High School FFA students who donated and then planted heirloom varieties of tomatoes.
For more information or to be a part of the Vegetable Garden Volunteer Corp, please contact us at elaabs@tenchimneys.org or ring (262)968-4161 ext. 204. Stay connected with us on Facebook, or by continuing to visit our website, for updates on this exciting new endeavor at Ten Chimneys. What a summer we have in store.