This month: A photo essay of our latest restoration project, the broken-glass lights. Volunteer Ron Kowalsky demonstrates our cool new train whistle. We announce a Victorian "who done it?" photography event, and more plans to spruce up the gardens. PLUS we're starting to prepare for the holidays and we would love your help.
Newly restored lights above the terrace!
We are so pleased to announce the completion of our "broken-glass ceiling light" restoration project! These unique lights were designed by Gillette himself and they sparkle beautifully on the upper terrace of the Castle. They were removed several years ago because the glass had become unstable.

Volunteer Glen Rippel led the charge! He meticulously cleaned and re-attached each shard of the very complex panels. In July, a work crew of park staff and volunteers completed the complicated task of attaching them to the terrace roof.

We could not have done this without membership dollars and donations!

We thank you, and thousands of Castle visitors thank you!
Volunteer Ron demonstrates our new train whistle.

Volunteer train trail guide Ron Kowalsky is an absolute HOOT! How appropriate that he is the star of a short video to feature our totally awesome Gillette Castle train whistle (hoot, hoot)!

If you enjoy the video and want more, we have a little collection of out-takes at this link. (There would be even more out-takes if we remembered to push the "on" button to start filming!)
We had loads of fun making the video, and hope it inspires YOU to jump aboard the volunteer train and join the fun (and buy the whistle, too!).
Holiday planning is starting now
(Yes, the holiday program is ON for 2023!)
You can make a difference! Join our community of holiday helpers and spread some joy in 2023.

You are invited! Experience the holiday program from behind-the-scenes, make a meaningful contribution to your community, and join a fun crew at our appreciation party!
A Victorian "who done it?" photography event!
Saturday, August 26
It's time to dress up and have some fun at the Castle! We are offering another of our immensely fun photography shoots on Saturday August 26.

Dress up and pose for pictures or come with your camera and enjoy two hours of time inside William Gillette's unique and quirky castle (8 a.m. to 10 a.m.). Or, join us after the photo shoot (10 a.m. to 12 p.m.) to enjoy watching the models and photographers pose around the grounds.

We hope to see you there!
More gardening! 10 a.m. Tuesday, August 8

Join us in adding more beauty to the terrace gardens. From 10 a.m. onwards, we will be mulching and adding some plantings in the portico area.

Sign up in advance at this link or just drop by! Snacks and water are provided, bring your gloves and a trowel if you have one.
Help us keep you WARM!
The crew at Seventh Sister Souvenirs is working on ordering cosy fall and winter wear. We'd love to know what you would like to see at the shop!

Please take this very brief survey and let us know your thoughts.
Special items at Seventh Sister Souvenirs
It's picnic time!
Visit the shop and pick up your Gillette Castle refillable water bottle.

Use the bottle at the new Visitor center water station, which was graciously donated by Reynolds' Subaru of Lyme, CT. 

A pack of playing cards can enhance any picnic experience.

Our picnic-friendly pilsner cup is lightweight and easy to pack!