Special Exhibition Will Honor The

Life & Passions Of Skitch Henderson

NEW MILFORD — “My profession is a combination of sweat, care, ecstasy, and acceptance,” Skitch Henderson once observed in a moment of self-reflection. His personal interests, like his musical tastes, were broad and varied — aviation, farming, cooking, sports, vintage cars, and all things reflective of Americana, from 19th Century metal banks to vintage farm machinery. On stage — first as a bandleader for The Tonight Show and later as the founder and conduct of The New York Pops — as well as off, Skitch Henderson was a man who loved what he did, and what he did touched all who encountered him.

Hunt Hill Farm has been different since losing Mr Henderson in November 2005. The initial hollow feeling has been replaced by a  hallowed feeling. There is so much of Mr Henderson’s life still felt on the farm. Visitors are surrounded by the things and the people he loved.

From the DeHaviland propeller at home in the barnyard and the steam engine in the driveway to the old buildings he loved so well, his collection of banks, his library of music, and his scarf still casually draped across his favorite chair, Skitch Henderson’s presence is still very much felt.

To celebrate his life, The Silo Gallery at Hunt Hill Farm has organized “Skitch Henderson – His Life, His Passions.” This exhibit will share those passions, outside of his public image, which made Skitch Henderson so much more than just “Maestro.” Curated by Jessica Stewart, the show will introduce visitors to the wealth of collections at Hunt Hill Farm.

“Our Smithsonian affiliation has as much to do with these unique collections as it does with the historic nature of the site, and the careers of [Skitch and his wife Ruth] Henderson. And of course, the collections are a part of their legacy as well,” Ms Stewart explained.

A portion of Mr Henderson’s collection of more than 65 clocks will be displayed, as well as a rare assemblage of 19th Century still and mechanical banks, memorabilia from his career as a restaurateur, tractors and cars, never-before-seen photographs from the Hunt Hill Farm archives and photographer Steve J. Sherman, and more.

An opening reception with catered refreshments will be held on Saturday, March 25, from 3 to 5 pm.

The exhibition will remain on view until May 14.

Dwight Blocker Bowers, cultural historian at the National Museum of American History, will give a presentation of “A Little Song, A Little Dance, A Little History” on Saturday, May 6, as a special event for members of the Hunt Hill Farm Trust family.  For information on how to become a member, call 860-355-0300 or visit www.HuntHillFarmTrust.org.

The Silo Gallery is open Wednesday through Monday, 10 am to 5 pm. The Silo at Hunt Hill Farm Preserve is at 44 Upland Road.