Author: Willit Mason

When Willit Mason retired in the summer of 2015, he and his wife decided to celebrate with a grand tour of the Berkshires and the Hudson Valley of New York. While they intended to enjoy the area's natural beauty, they also wanted to visit the numerous historic estates and gardens that lie along the Hudson River and the hills of the Berkshires.

Because Mason could not find a guidebook highlighting the region's houses, gardens and geographic context encompassing their strengths and weaknesses he wrote this comprehensive guide. It includes 71 historic New England houses and gardens, providing an overview of each site. Organized by region, it makes it easy to see as many historic houses and gardens in a limited time.

Filled with family histories, information on the architectural development of properties and overviews of gardens and their surroundings, this is a must-have guide for any New England traveler.

Paperback, 240 pages