Digging Deeper: Lyndhurst Overlook Garden & Paula Hayes Exhibit Tour

About

This Digging Deeper is presented in partnership with Lyndhurst Mansion

This walking tour through the Lyndhurst landscape explores the Overlook, a recreation of the treehouse attributed to Helen Gould, daughter of Gilded Age financier Jay Gould.

Situated behind the Gothic Revival mansion designed by renowned 19th-century American architect Alexander Jackson Davis, the platform was originally created circa 1900 around a weeping birch tree that could not be replanted due to climate change. This new garden was once part of a picturesque landscape, likely designed by Bavarian master gardener Ferdinand Mangold, that included shrubbery tunnels, shaded seating areas, plant borders, and a sweeping Hudson River view.

It has been reimagined by artist Paula Hayes as a vibrant native garden filled with ornamental grasses and seasonal blooms that provide habitat and nourishment for pollinators. Learn about Hayes’ plant selections, which include native species advertised for sale in early 20th century garden supply catalogs found in Lyndhurst’s archives. Discover the inspiration behind her immersive “mandala” design, which captures the wonder of being surrounded by nature.

The tour also features Hayes’ contemporary garden sculptures—including gazing globes, a birdbath, and a garden gnome—that playfully reference Victorian garden traditions while inviting visitors to consider how Helen Gould’s naturalistic vision for the Lyndhurst landscape continues to resonate today. 

Digging Deepers are typically lecture-based programs, and are closer to a guided walking tour. Please plan to arrive promptly at the start time to enjoy the full lecture.

Digging Deeper Title: Lyndhurst Overlook Garden & Paula Hayes Exhibit Tour

Digging Deeper Host: Paula Hayes, land artist and sculptor

Date: Saturday, October 3 | 10am–12pm

Location: Lyndhurst Mansion | Tarrytown, New York

$30 Members | $40 General