Duke Farms, located in Hillsborough, New Jersey, is a 2,470-acre estate that was established in 1893 by James Buchanan Duke, the founder of Duke Power and the American Tobacco Company.
The Orchid Range is a glass house that displays more than 1400 different kinds of orchids. It dates back to the 1930s and 40s when the Duke family cultivated the flowers. Today, there can be as many as 5500 orchids in the range.
Most of the Duke Farm property is hidden from the public. When James' daughter, Doris, died in 1992, she requested that the property be used to protect endangered species of flora and fauna. Visitors can still explore 20 miles of trails spread out over 1,000 acres. There are many waterfalls, lakes, and rolling hills to enjoy.
The Orchid Range is open from 8:30-4:30 every day except Wednesday. Admission is free.
Before I go, I'd like to let you know that I'm doing a Goodreads giveaway of the Kindle version of my book, Don't Feed the Elephant. It's open to US residents only. If you'd like to enter to win one of 20 copies, go here.
Free? What a cool place to explore for free!
ReplyDeleteFree is always good.
DeleteThe glass house is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteI agree. It's amazing that it was built so long ago.
DeleteI never heard of it. Will have to check it out next time I'm back East.
ReplyDeleteAnother great place to visit.
DeleteHi Sherry - what an amazing looking garden and a delight to walk around and see the orchids and estate area. Lucky Americans who can get your Don't Feed the Elephant book - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteOrchids a such pretty flowers. It's nice that there are so many in one place.
DeleteIn the UK most people with'Duke' in their name have it at the beginning! I like the fact that orchids have become much cheaper in recent years and can often last for months and then bloom again! This place must be a delight.
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That's funny, isn't it - about the Duke.
DeleteThe orchids are very beautiful!
This is so beautiful. Wow!
ReplyDeleteIt's a really pretty place to visit!
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