From Orchard to Aquatic Oasis
Peter P. Blanchard, Jr.’s enduring passion for waterfowl played a pivotal role in shaping the serene landscape of Greenwood Gardens, as his profound appreciation for these winged creatures inspired the creation of two tranquil ponds which transformed a portion of the property into a flourishing aquatic oasis.
On a crisp autumn morning in 1963, a bulldozer set to work carving the first of the ponds from a natural hollow nestled within the gently sloping terrain. What had once been an apple orchard—and before that, a dense woodland—was reimagined as a haven for wildlife and domestic birds. Upon completion, and until the early 1970s, the southernmost pond was adorned with a fountain, infusing the picturesque scene with an air of refinement. In 1965, a Roman-style gazebo was added to its banks and remains to this day near the border between Greenwood Gardens and the South Mountain Reservation.
As in Mr. Blanchard’s time, the ponds remain home to a thriving and vibrant ecosystem. Beneath their surface, catfish, carp, and sunfish thrive. In warmer weather, turtles and bullfrogs bask on the trunk of a fallen tree stretching across the water’s surface, while dragonflies dance playfully in the dappled sunlight. This habitat also serves as a sanctuary for a diverse array of wild waterfowl, including the stately Great Blue Heron, the nimble Belted Kingfisher, and an occasional Wood Duck or Mallard Duck. Greenwood’s resident geese, a beloved presence, also grace these waters year-round, enriching the serene scene with their elegance and vitality.
The last private owner of this property, Peter P. Blanchard, Jr. envisioned preserving it for the delight and enjoyment of the public. In keeping with his wishes, his son, the late Peter P. Blanchard III, and his wife, Sofia A. Blanchard, ensured his legacy. Today, we honor the elder Blanchard’s dedication to creating an extraordinary space, celebrating not only these two beautiful ponds, but the many lasting contributions he made to the garden’s evolution.
