‘History Bites’ Lecture

At Bellamy-Ferriday House

BETHLEHEM — “History Bites,” a new weekly lecture series, continues with the walking tour “At The Garden’s Edge: Exploring Boundaries and Perimeter Plantings,” given by Robin Zitter and Rob Girard, staff horticulturists, on Thursday, May 17, at noon, at The Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden in Bethlehem.

The program will be presented by staff horticulturists Robin Zitter and Rob Girard. Ms Zitter and Mr Girard will walk participants along the perimeter of the five-acre property, explaining the history and use of the plantings, mostly trees and shrubs frequently found in the 1930s landscapes, as well as a brief history of the property.

The lecture is free; participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch. Dessert and beverages will be provided. In the event of rain, participants are encouraged to wear raincoats and umbrellas, as this will be an outdoor walking program.

The Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden was the 18th Century home of the noted Colonial theologian the Reverend Joseph Bellamy. Purchased by the Ferriday family in 1912, the property was transformed into a summer estate complete with circa 1915 formal parterre garden and an apple orchard. The Ferridays slowly added to their perimeter plantings, creating a visual and noise barrier to screen their tranquil retreat from the center of Bethlehem and its accompanying traffic.

Continuing the series, Valerie DeLorenzo and Gerald Geci will present “Building A Dream House: A Conversation Between A Client and Architect” at Topsmead State Forest, off of Buell Road in Litchfield, on May 24. Participants are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, as the lecture will be given outdoors.

For more information, call 203-266-7596. The Bellamy-Ferriday House & Garden is open Wednesday and Friday through Sunday, 11 am to 4 pm.