12 mi E of Montrose, CO < Back Black Canyon of the Gunnison 12 mi E of Montrose, CO 1999 Established: Size: 30,750 acres Visitors: 308,962 in 2018 Summary Nestled in the rugged terrain of western Colorado, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park stands as a testament to the raw power of nature and the enduring beauty it creates. Carved over millions of years by the mighty Gunnison River, the canyon's sheer granite walls plummet to depths of over 2,000 feet, creating a dramatic landscape of unparalleled grandeur. Visitors to the park are treated to breathtaking vistas from numerous overlooks, where they can marvel at the canyon's narrow gorges, towering spires, and dizzying cliffs. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore a network of hiking trails that wind along the canyon rim or descend into its depths, offering opportunities for adventure and solitude amidst the rugged wilderness. With its awe-inspiring vistas and rich geological history, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park stands as a testament to the enduring power and beauty of the natural world. Wildlife Within the rugged confines of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, a diverse array of wildlife thrives amidst the dramatic cliffs and rocky terrain. Along the canyon rim, visitors may spot agile mule deer grazing in meadows, while elusive Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep navigate the steep slopes with ease. Birdwatchers are treated to sightings of majestic golden eagles soaring overhead, along with peregrine falcons nesting in the canyon's sheer cliffs. Below the rim, the Gunnison River provides a lifeline for a variety of aquatic species, including rainbow and brown trout, while beavers and river otters ply its currents in search of food. In the quieter corners of the park, smaller creatures such as marmots, pikas, and yellow-bellied marmots dart among the rocks, adding to the rich tapestry of wildlife that calls Black Canyon home. As visitors explore this rugged landscape, they are greeted by the sights and sounds of a thriving ecosystem, where every creature plays a vital role in the delicate balance of nature. Sounds of the Park Things to Do Visitors to Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park can enjoy hiking, fishing, camping, stargazing, and more. In the winter, visitors can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Note that the north rim of the canyon is closed during the winter season. When to Visit Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park has a continental climate with warm summers and cold, snowy winters. Precipitation is relatively rare year-round. Summer weather is pleasant, but it is also the busiest time of the year in terms of visitors. For mild weather and fewer crowds, visit during the spring (May) or fall (September-October) seasons. Ties to Stephen Mather Fun Fact Much of the canyon is shrouded in shadows, with some parts of the canyon receive only around 30 minutes of sunlight per day. Previous Next

England, late 18th or early 19th century; Mahogany, unidentified secondary wood (possibly mahogany) < Back Stool First Floor - Keeping Room Furniture and Hard Furnishings England, late 18th or early 19th century; Mahogany, unidentified secondary wood (possibly mahogany) On four Marlborough legs with outside beads and inside chamfers, joined by H-stretchers, the medial of which is tenoned into the side stretchers. Double chip mark on inside of one long rail suggests that this stool was number “2”; slip seat now upholstered in floral needlework by Bertha Mather. Previous Next

< Back Colonial Breadmaking - a Homesteading 101 Workshop Thurs., March 10, 7 pm, Barn, $45 Leah Jones, pastry chef at Grace Farms and owner of Black Market Bread, will lead us in a colonial breadmaking workshop which will involve baking AND tasting! First, Leah will give us a little history on bread and some information which might help us understand the "gluten free" craze a little better. Then we'll taste various breads, baked by Leah, and drink wines chosen to pair with each bread. Finally, we'll make our own bread! Includes ingredients, instruction, plus two loaves of bread - one we will cook on site and one you will take home to bake. YUM. BYO large bowl and spatula! $45 per person $240/table for six. Will open up ticket sales soon Previous Next

Outdoor Classroom & Seating < Back Dennis Glassmeyer Outdoor Classroom & Seating Previous Next

Becoming a Gardener: What Reading and Digging Taught Me about Living < Back Catie Marron - May 26, 2022 Becoming a Gardener: What Reading and Digging Taught Me about Living Previous Next

American, 20th century. Maple; 27" h. x 12 ½" w. x 12 ½" d. < Back Twelve-Sided Candlestand Second Floor - SW Bedroom Furniture and Hard Furnishings American, 20th century. Maple; 27" h. x 12 ½" w. x 12 ½" d. Thumbnail-molded edge attached to a turned standard having elongated balusters above and below centered balls and rings; standard tenons into the base. Previous Next

Possibly New England; 35 ½" h. x 64" w. x 30" d. < Back Camelback Sofa First Floor - Parlor Furniture and Hard Furnishings Possibly New England; 35 ½" h. x 64" w. x 30" d. In the Chippendale form, circa 1790. Rolled arms, square tapered mahogany legs; yellow upholstery. Note: Frame was not examined because upholstery was not removed, thus preventing definitive determination of age and origin. Previous Next

Northeastern United States, 20th century Mahogany, white pine; 27 ¾" h. x 30" w. x 15 ⅜" d < Back Table with One Drawer First Floor - Entrance Hall Furniture and Hard Furnishings Northeastern United States, 20th century Mahogany, white pine; 27 ¾" h. x 30" w. x 15 ⅜" d An overhanging top with molded edges and serpentine-cut front corners; a single full-width drawer with a post-and-bail brass pull, Marlborough legs with beaded outside corners. Table is ‘married’, made up of old parts. Previous Next

MH Events 2021 American Poetry with Samantha Gault: Twas the Night Before Christmas Tues., Dec. 14, 2021, 7 pm Read More A Visit from St. Nicholas Sat., Dec 11, 2021, 11 am Read More Music at Mather: Acabella Fri., Dec. 10, 2021, 7 pm Read More Music at Mather: Con Cuoco Sun., Dec. 5, 2021, 5 pm Read More Homestead Workshop 101: Holiday Greenery Weds., Dec 1, 2021, 5 and 7 pm Read More America Poetry with Samantha Gault Weds., Nov. 17, 2021, 7 pm Read More Scholars Lecture: Akhil Reed Amar Weds., Nov. 10, 2021, 7 pm Read More American Poetry with Samantha Gault Tues., Nov 2, 2021, 7 pm Read More Heritage Day: Celebrating Darien's 200th Sat., Oct. 23, 2021, 1 pm Read More American Poetry with Samantha Gault Weds., Oct. 20, 2021, 7 pm Read More Homesteading 101: Beekeeping Sat., Oct 15, 2021, 12 pm Read More Music at Mather: the David Higgins Band Sun.., Oct. 8, 2021, 5 pm Read More SEE MORE 2021 EVENTS

The Mather Homestead was built in 1778 and has been impeccably preserved over three centuries. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1966. TIMELINE 1778 Homestead built by Deacon Joseph Mather, son of Reverend Moses Mather, and his wife Sarah on 100 acres. 1781 Homestead raided by the Tories and valuables stolen from the well but not found inside the house (come for a tour to discover the secret hiding spot). 1906 - 1930 Homestead owned by Stephen Tyng Mather, first Director of the National Park Service. 1930 - 1993 Homestead restored, maintained and cared for by Bertha Mather McPherson, Stephen Mather’s daughter, one of the first female architects in Connecticut and a founding member of the Darien Historical Society. 1964 Homestead designated a National Historic Landmark. 1966 Homestead listed on National Register of Historic Places. 2016 Homestead designated a Protected Town Landmark by Town of Darien. 2017 The Mather-McPherson family donated the Homestead to a newly created Foundation to be operated as a museum for public education. 2020 Opened the Elizabeth W. Chilton Education Center. 2021 The McPherson family donated an additional acre of land to the Foundation. The Homestead becomes one of nine markers on Darien’s historical Heritage Trail. 2025 Completed phase one of 1778 House Restoration Project based upon recommendations from 2022 Condition Assessment. 2026 Will compete phase two of 1778 House Restoration Project thanks to the generosity of the Darien Foundation

Klamath County, OR < Back Crater Lake Klamath County, OR 1902 Established: Size: 183,224 acres Visitors: 527,000 in 2022 Summary Crater Lake National Park is an American national park located in southern Oregon. Established in 1902, Crater Lake is the fifth-oldest national park in the United States and the only national park in Oregon. The park encompasses the caldera of Crater Lake, a remnant of Mount Mazama, a destroyed volcano, and the surrounding hills and forests. The caldera rim ranges in elevation from 7,000 to 8,000 feet (2,100 to 2,400 m). The United States Geological Survey benchmark elevation of the lake surface is 6,178 feet (1,883 m). The national park encompasses 183,224 acres (286.3 sq mi; 741.5 km2). Crater Lake has no streams flowing into or out of it. All water that enters the lake is eventually lost from evaporation or subsurface seepage. The lake's water commonly has a striking blue hue, and the lake is refilled entirely from direct precipitation in the form of snow and rain. Wildlife Black-tailed deer California tortoiseshell American pika Cascades frog Sounds of the Park Things to Do Visitors at Crater Lake National Park can hike, camp, fish, or birdwatch, or stargaze. In the winter, visitors can snowshoe, snowmobile, snowboard, or ski (either cross-country or downhill). When to Visit Crater Lake has a subarctic climate with cold, very snowy winters and mild, sunny summers. Snow covers the park for the majority of the year, except for the summer, making the summer the optimal time of year to visit for outdoor activities. Ties to Stephen Mather Fun Fact Prior to the eruption that created Crater Lake, Mount Mazama was likely over 12,000 feet tall. Previous Next

The Mather Homestead Foundation is overseen by the Board of Directors: Chair: Richard L. Chilton, Jr., Stephen Berger, Diane Boston, Meredith Edwards, Jennifer L. Foster, Carol Glassmeyer, Ania Janis, Ronald LaMorte, Maeve McGovern, Ginger Morgan, Penny Rashin, John Sini, Tammy Sload, Lauren Swenson, Tiffany Van Elslander. Other boards include: Advisory Board, Junior Board, Teen Board. MATHER HOMESTEAD IN THE NEWS! Darien Living - Jan 9, 2026 - Mather Homestead's New Executive Director, Samantha Lane Gault Bedford New Canaan Magazine - July 3, 2024 - Bringing History to Life at the Mather Homestead - July 3, 2024.- Out & About: Mather Homestead Garden Tea Luncheon Darien Magazine - Spring/Summer 2024 - House Tour - The Mather Homestead: Bringing History to Life Now We're Talking Darien Podcast - September 3, 2021 - Jennifer Foster & Heather Raker Darien Times - August 13, 2020 - The Mather Homestead Completes Work on Education Center - May 10, 2017 - The Mather Homestead Becomes Darien Museum The Norwalk Hour - December 1, 2016 - Darien’s historic Stephen Mather homestead now town museum Darien Times - July, 2011 - The History Behind the Mather Homestead in Darien The New York Times - February 21, 1964 - Mather Homestead In Darien Becomes National Landmark