Overview and Welcome – reader Chris Martin

Welcome to NH Audubon’s Silk Farm Wildlife Sanctuary All Persons Trail and Audio Tour. NH Audubon is a state-based environmental organization. It was founded in 1914 in direct response to the wanton killing of birds to adorn women’s hats and for food and sport.

Beginning in the 1830s, this land was the site of a silk farm, from which the sanctuary takes its name. Evidence of the farm’s mulberry and apple trees can still be found on the property. In 1974, after 60 years in existence, NH Audubon moved into the farmhouse, and it soon became known as ‘Audubon House.’ The building was later expanded as our organization grew. It’s now called the McLane Center, named for Susan McLane, a former NH state senator and advocate for the environment.

The shoreline of nearby Great Turkey Pond is protected through a NH Audubon conservation easement. It’s a key feature of this property, as is a 15-acre open field that is being managed for grassland birds. Eastern Bluebirds and Tree Swallows are two focal species of a nest box program, and Bobolinks and Savannah Sparrows are targets of our grassland management. Grassland and woodland birds, various frogs, and several unusual ecological habitats are part of this special sanctuary, and you will learn more about these during this tour.

Thank you for visiting! We hope you’ll return to visit the property in each season, since the landscape and its wildlife change throughout the year. This trail is designed to welcome all visitors to enjoy and immerse themselves in nature. Please be respectful and courteous to all people and other creatures you meet along the trail.