Heritage Peony Project
View of the Heritage Peony Garden at Museum at the Shacksboro Schoolhouse, Baldwinsville, New York
Peony Project:
In 1989 the museum began a "rescue and preservation" program whereby peony plants and rootstock from Baldwinsville's once nationally renowned Indian Spring Farms, Inc. were located and established in a living history garden on the museum grounds.
The purpose of the project is twofold: to preserve this chapter of Baldwinsville's agricultural history and to perpetuate the cultivation and identification of these once popular varieties that are threatened with obscurity.
Today the museum collection numbers more than 600 plants and over 200 varieties. A large display garden was established on the museum grounds in 1989. This summer two new beds have been added to the display garden; it is anticipated that these beds will be planted this autumn. Material for the new beds will come from the museum's offsite garden that is home to over 500 plants.
Propagation and distribution are essential elements of this project. As plants in the collection achieve maturity they are divided and one section is replanted. The remaining divisions are sold through the museum's annual peony sale.
Peony Fest:
Annual Celebration of All Things Peony !
June 12, 2010
Peony Sale:
Each June a select group of peonies is identified as being available for sale. Orders for the plants are taken from June until all plants are sold. At the time of the order, a $5 deposit is taken for each plant ordered. The balance is due upon pick up of the plant in late September. In early September buyers are advised by postcard when the plants will be ready for pick up.
Inquiries about the sale may be made by calling the museum at 315-638-2452 or by email info@shacksboromuseum.com.
In 2008 an experimental peony rehydration project was undertaken with results that were quite successful. A step by step photo documentary on this process may be viewed by clicking here.
Contact us info@shacksboromuseum.com
Copyright 2008 - 2009 McHarrie's Legacy, Inc.