Gardens at Jay Heritage Center Receives New York State Historic Preservation Award
The Jay Estate Gardens at the Jay Heritage Center (JHC) is the recipient of a 2022 New York State Historic Preservation Award. The awards, created in 1980, are presented each year by the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation to honor excellence in the protection and revitalization of historic and cultural resources.
The Rye site was one of nine projects and one individual acknowledged by Governor Kathy Hochul, who noted that “preserving notable landmarks across New York allows us to celebrate our shared history and honor our collective past.”
In a statement from the Governor’s office, the “Excellence in Nonprofit Achievement” award recognized the Jay Estate Gardens by stating:
“The transformational design of the gardens not only reflects the historic context, but emphasizes an intentionality to restore native species and original voices and to cultivate an appreciation and understanding of sustainable landscapes through partnerships and public outreach.”
The Gardens, which had its ribbon cutting last spring, is (as described on their website) “an expansive, educational, green space where American history, sustainability and diverse cultural narratives all converge.”
“Now it’s on to the next phase,” says JHC Executive Director Kevin Peraino. “[That] includes a gorgeous alley of cherry trees that were sponsored by the Japan Society – as well as other potential projects we’re currently looking to fund.”
About ArtsWestchester
Founded in 1965, ArtsWestchester is New York State’s largest private not-for-profit arts council. The leading funder and advocate for the arts in Westchester and Rockland Counties, ArtsWestchester works to create an equitable, inclusive, vibrant and sustainable community in which the arts are integral to and integrated into every facet of life. Building on its 60-year legacy, ArtsWestchester advances arts and culture by providing grants, bringing artists into schools and community centers, advocating for the arts, and building audiences through diverse marketing initiatives. ArtsWestchester enriches the lives of everyone in the community and operates a multi-use gallery and home for the arts at 31 Mamaroneck Ave. in White Plains, New York.
