The prospect was uninviting. Could I build a stone disguise for an electrical transformer? The call came at a busy time late in the last century. I advised the caller to check back again in a year. One year later, to the day, I received a second call from Rick and Susan Richter. The request for a short wall around the transformer was still on the table but they had a few other items they were interested in having me build for them on their Springfield, Vermont property. A dry stone fence around the fruit and vegetable garden was now at the top of their to-do list. Thus began my ten year working relationship, and continuing friendship, with Susan and Rick.

On Sunday, August 24, the dramatic landscape surrounding the Richter’s beautiful home will be open to guests of a Garden Conservancy tour. The public is invited to stroll the grounds of this truly unique property. Examining the exterior of the house is reward enough for making the trip. Its red oak, half-timber facade and clay tile roof is a marvel of craftsmanship. Dry stone enclosures, terraces and steps buttress the home. The floral gardens that Susan has planted and nurtures are a delight to the senses. I’m heading to the walled garden to steal a handful of raspberries as soon as I get there. Click on the link for more details - https://www.gardenconservancy.org/opendays/open-days-schedule/venueevents/1672-woodland-farms. I don’t possess the Richter’s patience to wait a year. I’ll be there on Sunday. Please join me in celebrating this very special place. I hope to see you at Woodland Farms.