Often, old and beloved spaces have strong, positive energy. The kind that can feel almost sacred, builds over time from having been appreciated, and cared for by many people and for many different reasons. Did you get goose bumps the last time you went to a retreat center, an old cathedral, visited a cemetery, or walked protected lands and trails? Think of the kinds of places where you feel compelled to whisper. Remember a place that has been visited, shared, and that draws people to come and simply relax. The best places are those where your shoulders just naturally drop, where you literally stop to smell the lilacs, listen for the wind in the trees, and stay still in the hope of glimpsing birds or creatures that call the place home. Woodlawn has this kind of energy. The house was built for a family who loved it deeply and was managed by caretakers who also loved it dearly. Nixon Black entrusted the Hancock County Trustees for Public Reservations to care for it and share it with the public when he died in 1928. While Nixon lived a life of privilege, he understood the value of history and preservation. He cared enough to ensure that this haven should be shared, understood, and appreciated. He saw it as the time capsule that it is and understood its capacity to educate into the future. People come up every day, in all weathers, to walk, to linger, to learn, to play, to explore, and to simply enjoy this special place in the heart of Ellsworth.

When the new barn is complete, we will be better able to explore the rich archives and learn more about the early caretaking staff as well as the many trustees who each in their way, worked to deliver on the vision of Woodlawn as a beautiful home that served Nixon as a safe respite in his later years, a place of contentment and enjoyment. Sincere thanks to all former and current trustees and staff who have contributed their time, talent, and treasure over the years.

Having completed my first year as the director of Woodlawn (today is my one year anniversary), I have come to rely on Woodlawn's strong and steady energy to lift me when the effort to manage this place has felt heavy. Knowing that I am but one among so many who have worked to maintain this important place gives me the courage to do my best in each moment. Having the support of the Trustees and my own caretaking team has also been critical. Every one brings a different perspective to a dynamic place. We are all doing our individual and collective best to stay ahead of decay and the wrath of time. It is truly a concerted and continual effort that involves the inevitable - change. And change can be difficult. However, I have found that it is only the resistance to change that is painful. We are all about to enter a new chapter for Woodlawn that builds quite literally upon a solid heritage.

I hope that new Trustees, new members, future staff, and all visitors feel and share the energy that is gathered here, and contribute to it themselves, through their own participation and involvement. The more a place is loved, the more it shines and shares its grace. There will be change and there will be continuity. The Woodlawn community is strengthening and I feel privileged to be here. Thank you for caring about Woodlawn.

~ Kathy Young