National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Cultural Landscape Report

for Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

Volume II: Treatment
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT

FOR SAGAMORE HILL

NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

OYSTER BAY, NEW YORK

VOLUME II 

TREATMENT

Prepared by 

Timothy W. Layton, ASLA 

Historical Landscape Architect 

Margie Coffin Brown 

Senior Project Manager 

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation 

National Park Service, Boston, Massachusetts, 2010 

“The house stands right 

on the top of the hill, 

separated by fields and 

belts of woodland from 

all other houses, and 

looks out over the bay 

and the Sound.” 

Theodore Roosevelt, 

An Autobiography, 328. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

ii 

The Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation promotes the stewardship of 

significant landscapes through research, planning, and sustainable preservation 

maintenance. The Center accomplishes its mission in collaboration with a network of 

partners including national parks, universities, government agencies, and private 

nonprofit organizations. Techniques and principles of preservation practice are made 

available through training and publications. 

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation 

Boston National Historical Park 

Charlestown Navy Yard, Quarters C 

Boston, MA 02129 

www.nps.gov/oclp/ 

Publication Credits: Graphics from sources other than federal repositories may not 

be reproduced without the permission of the owners noted in the captions. Other 

information in this publication may be copied and used with the condition that full 

credit be given to the authors and publisher. Appropriate citations and bibliographic 

credits should be made for each use. 

National Park Service, Denver Technical Information Center Report NPS 419/104631 

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data 

 1. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (Oyster Bay, N.Y.) 2. Roosevelt, Theodore, 

1858-1919--Homes and haunts--New York (State)--Oyster Bay. 3. Cultural parks--

New York (State)--Oyster Bay. I. Curry, George W., 1940- . II. Olmsted Center for 

Landscape Preservation (U.S.). III. Title. IV. Series. 

E757.B45 1995 

94.7’245--dc20 

95-39991 

CIP 

Cover Photo: View across West Lawn of the Theodore Roosevelt Home, 2004, 

Charles Markis, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site 

Title Page: Theodore and Archibald Roosevelt under the vine-covered porte-cochere, 

1912. From Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc. 
TABLE OF CONTENTS

iii 

TABLE OF CONTENTS 

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS V 

FOREWORD IX 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS XI 

INTRODUCTION 1 

Purpose and Methodology 2 

Statement of Significance 3 

TREATMENT FRAMEWORK 7 

Relationship to Existing Planning Documents 7 

General Treatment Issues 10 

Primary Treatment 12 

Treatment Period 13 

Treatment Philosophy 15 

TREATMENT TASKS 31 

Buildings and Structures 31 

Vegetation 40 

Circulation 65 

Views and Vistas 73 

Small-Scale Features 74 

REFERENCES 155 

APPENDICES 159 

A: Restoring Vine Coverage to Historic Buildings 159 

B: Scope of Work Documents 165 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

iv 
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

v 

LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS 

FIGURES 

INTRODUCTION 

1 Location map for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site 5 

2 Map showing the historic core and outer acreage, circa 1919 6 

TREATMENT FRAMEWORK 

3 Historical Base Map, 1963 17 

4 General Management Plan Map, 2008 18 

TREATMENT TASKS 

5 View looking southeast at the New Barn, 1907 91 

6 View looking northwest at the existing New Barn 91 

7 View looking south through the Pet Cemetery Arbor, 1906 92 

8 Pet Cemetery Arbor, circa 1901 92 

9 View looking north at the existing Pet Cemetery Arbor 93 

10 Plan and elevation for the proposed arbor, benches, and planting 94 

11 Richard Derby Jr. at the fenced chicken yard, circa 1918 95 

12 View looking east at the Chicken House, circa 1920 95 

13 Great American Insurance Company Map, June 1950 96 

14 Diagrammatic plan of the proposed chicken yard 97 

15 View looking northeast toward visitor parking lot 98 

16 Diagrammatic plan of the proposed maintenance building 98 

17 Diagrammatic plan of the proposed addition to Old Orchard 99 

18 “Playing in the Sand,” circa 1904 99 

19 Macadam Road Cross Section 100 

20 “Going to See Roosevelt,” May 27, 1916 100 

21 View looking southwest at Macadam Road retaining wall 101 

22 Roosevelt reading mail under the porte-cochere, 1912 101 

23 Roosevelt seated on balustrade of veranda, 1905 102 

24 Roosevelt walking from porte-cochere, 1912 102 

25 View looking southeast at the North Room, circa 1905 103 

26 View looking southeast at the North Room, circa 1922 103 

27 Close-up of trellis support system, FRLA NHS 104 

28 Diagrammatic planting plan for the Theodore Roosevelt Home 105 

29 View looking northwest at the porte-cochere, 1905 106 

30 Richard Derby Jr. and Ethel Derby on circular drive, circa 1918 106 

31 View looking southeast at Roosevelt greeting visitors, circa 1916–18 107 

32 View looking northeast at the Theodore Roosevelt Home, 1905 107 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

vi 

33 View looking northeast across circular drive, 1950 108 

34 Visitor photographing cherry trees in the circular drive lawn 108 

35 Diagrammatic plan for replacement planting circular drive lawn 109 

36 Roosevelt addressing a crowd from the veranda, 1916 110 

37 View looking northeast at elm and Theodore Roosevelt Home, 1912 110 

38 Bob Fergusen holding Ethel Roosevelt, circa 1894 111 

39 View looking east at white oak near Gardener’s Shed 111 

40 Ice House behind Roosevelt standing in circular drive, 1912 112 

41 View looking northeast at the Ice House, circa 1960 112 

42 Diagrammatic plan for the Ice House 113 

43 Theodore Roosevelt’s sketch plan of Sagamore Hill, circa 1880 114 

44 Vehicular circulation to the Theodore Roosevelt Home, 1953 115 

45 “Across the Field, Sagamore Hill,” circa 1904 115 

46 Aerial photograph, 1950 116 

47 View looking southeast to the “Farm Barn,” prior to 1904 116 

48 View of the Southeast, North, and South Fields, prior to 1907 117 

49 View looking southwest across the Cow Pasture 117 

50 Aerial photograph, 1926 118 

51 Historical Base Map, 1963 118 

52 Ice storm damage in the orchard, circa 1940 119 

53 Aerial photograph, 1940 119 

54 View looking southwest at young apple tree 120 

55 View looking southeast in orchard 120 

56 Diagrammatic mowing plan 121 

57 Pasture grazing and haying diagram 122 

58 Diagrammatic mowing routes to minimize potential wildlife impacts 122 

59 Detail plan of existing conditions at flower and vegetable garden 123 

60 Park staff securing enclosure around and the Cousin’s Beech 123 

61 View looking southwest at Lower Lake and Woodland Trail 124 

62 View looking southeast at Eel Creek and tidal marsh 124 

63 Bathhouse at Cold Spring Harbor beach, circa 1917 125 

64 “Pony Grant - C.S.H. Beach,” no date 125 

65 Archie Roosevelt on wagon under porte-cochere, 1901 126 

66 Uncovered brick paving along porte-cochere stone wall 126 

67 Plan to replace brick paving in kind at porte-cochere 127 

68 West facade of the Stable and Lodge, 1905 127 

69 Diagrammatic plan of proposed accessible route to Roosevelt home 128 

70 View of Theodore Roosevelt Home from Carriage Road, 1905 129 

71 Vehicular circulation to the Theodore Roosevelt Home, circa 1905 130 

72 Vehicular circulation to the Theodore Roosevelt Home, 1912 130 

73 View looking northeast across Macadam Road 131 

74 Chipseal surfacing 131 
LIST OF ILLUSTRATIONS

vii 

75 View looking west at pedestrian access path from Old Orchard 132 

76 Sections showing cross slope options on pedestrian access path 132 

77 Diagram showing viewsheds 133 

78 Roosevelt and wood pole at edge of entry drive, 1912 133 

79 Aerial photograph, 1926 134 

80 Richard Derby Jr. in front of Sagamore Hill rock, circa 1919 134 

81 Sagamore Hill rock at entry to Macadam Road, 1912 135 

82 View looking north at the porte-cochere and veranda, circa 1885 135 

83 Roosevelt walking from porte-cochere, 1912 136 

84 View looking southeast at Theodore Roosevelt Home, circa 1930s 136 

85 White marble bench at northwest corner of North Room 137 

86 Post and rail fence near New Barn, circa 1918 137 

87 Existing post and rail fence between North and South Fields 138 

88 Plan and elevation for new post and rail fence sections 138 

89 Roosevelt rowing in Cold Spring Harbor, 1912 139 

TABLES 

1 Summary of Treatment Recommendations 82 

DRAWINGS 

1 Existing Conditions Site Wide 19 

2 Existing Conditions West Enlargement 21 

3 Existing Conditions East Enlargement 23 

4 Existing Conditions Theodore Roosevelt Home 25 

5 Existing Conditions Pet Cemetery 27 

6 Existing Conditions Old Orchard 29 

7 Treatment Plan West Enlargement 141 

8 Treatment Plan East Enlargement 143 

9 Treatment Plan Theodore Roosevelt Home 145 

10 Treatment Plan Pet Cemetery 147 

11 Existing Inventory Old Orchard 149 

12 Proposed Removals Old Orchard 151 

13 Proposed Planting Old Orchard 153 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

viii 
FOREWORD

ix 

FOREWORD 

This Cultural Landscape Report Treatment Plan update is a critical management 

document for a Presidential site whose cultural landscape is arguably as important 

as the buildings and collections contained within them. Theodore Roosevelt 

loved Sagamore Hill and used and appreciated every aspect of his working farm. 

Whether riding his horses through the fields, watching birds in the orchard, 

chopping trees to save his water view, or leading the children on “point to point 

walks” at the beach, the grounds were always an important part of family life at 

Sagamore Hill. 

This updated treatment plan builds on the site’s 1995 Cultural Landscape Report 

and the original treatment plan completed in 1998. The goal in updating the plan 

was to ensure that the cultural landscape recommendations in the 2008 General 

Management Plan are clearly integrated into the park management program. The 

plan details and explains those recommendations; and incorporates new 

historical information and photographs discovered over the last ten years. It 

provides detailed mapping and architectural drawings to guide the 

implementation of the recommendations. 

This treatment plan is an invaluable resource for park staff and the National Park 

Service as we work toward the implementation of the General Management 

Plan’s recommendations over the next 15-20 years. I thank the talented team at 

the Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation and especially Tim Layton, ASLA 

for his quality work in producing this plan; and the site staff and volunteers who 

assisted him. 

Thomas E. Ross 

Superintendent 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

x 
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

xi 

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS 

This report represents a collaborative effort between the Olmsted Center for 

Landscape Preservation and Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. At the 

Olmsted Center Rumika Chaudhry, Student Conservation Associate, and Margie 

Coffin Brown, Senior Project Manager, conducted an initial review with park staff 

to identify new treatment tasks and tasks requiring an update to align with 

Sagamore Hill’s General Management Plan. Timothy W. Layton, Historical 

Landscape Architect, served as lead author with guidance and contributions from 

Margie Coffin Brown. Robert Page, Director, provided project oversight and 

reviewed draft documents. The Olmsted Center’s preservation maintenance 

team including Charlie Pepper, Deputy Director, Dan McCarthy, Preservation 

Arborist, and Jamie McGuane, Preservation Arborist, provided treatment 

recommendations in the context of current best management practices in 

landscape maintenance. 

At Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Thomas Ross, Superintendent, and Amy 

Verone, Curator, participated in the formulation, coordination, and review of this 

project. Eric Witzke, Chief of Maintenance, Scott Gurney, Natural Resources 

Interpretative Ranger, and Bo Stein, Maintenance Mechanic, assisted in 

identifying treatment tasks, coordinated on-site documentation, and reviewed 

draft documents. Mark Koziol, Museum Technician, provided digital copies of 

images from the Sagamore Hill collection and Charles Markis, former Chief of 

Interpretation, supplied the cover photograph. 

Betsy Lyman and Brian McDonnell, Northeast Exotic Plant Management Team, 

and Sheila Colwell, Senior Natural Resource Program Manager, Northeast Region, 

coordinated management of invasive non-native species at Sagamore Hill with the 

treatment recommendations. In particular, Betsy Lyman proposed a mixture of 

native warm season grasses and forbs and reviewed the selections to integrate 

reseeding efforts with the larger goal of rehabilitating the cultural landscape. 

The foundation for this report was prepared by the research, analysis, and 

recommendations authored by Regina M. Bellavia and George W. Curry in the 

Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (1995) and the 

Volume 2 Treatment Recommendations and Implementation Plan (1998) authored 

by Regina M. Bellavia and David L. Uschold. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

xii 
INTRODUCTION

1

INTRODUCTION 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site preserves the home and associated cultural 

resources of Theodore Roosevelt, the twenty-sixth President of the United 

States. Located in the Village of Cove Neck, within the Town of Oyster Bay in 

New York, Sagamore Hill is situated on one of the highest points of a peninsula 

bounded by Oyster Bay and Cold Spring Harbor (Figure 1). Theodore Roosevelt 

purchased the 155-acre property in 1880, built a 22-room Queen Anne-Shingle 

style house between 1884 and 1885, and resided on the property until his death in 

1919. During this period he sold sections of the property to relatives but retained 

87 acres that contained his home, a working farm, woodlands, and a tidal marsh 

and beach on Cold Spring Harbor. 

Following Roosevelt’s death, his wife Edith Carow Roosevelt continued to live at 

the property until she passed away in 1948. During this time, Edith continued the 

family’s stewardship of the property as a working farm. She encouraged her 

eldest son, Theodore Jr., and his wife to build an estate within the property, 

known as Old Orchard. Completed in 1938, the resulting main house, auxiliary 

buildings, and circulation features altered the character of the property, but did 

not end Sagamore Hill’s primary use as a working farm. Spanning the tenure of 

President Theodore Roosevelt and First Lady Edith Carow Roosevelt, the period 

of significance for Sagamore Hill is 1884 to 1948.1

The Roosevelt Memorial Association — which later became the Theodore 

Roosevelt Association — began planning the future of Sagamore Hill with Edith 

Roosevelt and her children. Founded in 1919 to preserve and display the home 

and belongings of Theodore Roosevelt, the Association initiated negotiations 

after Edith’s death that culminated in the purchase of the property in 1948. 

Changes were made to the site to open it for public visitation and consequently, 

farm operations ceased. Sagamore Hill’s landscape transitioned from a working 

farm to a well-groomed park that opened for the public in 1953. 

In 1962 the United States Congress authorized the establishment of the Sagamore 

Hill National Historic Site as part of the National Park Service. The following 

year, the Theodore Roosevelt Association donated the site to the federal 

government. The National Park Service now manages 83 acres of the Roosevelt 

estate. At its core are the Theodore Roosevelt Home, historic farm buildings, the 

Old Orchard estate built for Theodore Roosevelt Jr., open fields, and an orchard. 

Beyond the core, the outer acreage consists of undeveloped woodlands and a 

beach, salt marsh, and tidal creek complex associated with Cold Spring Harbor 

(Figure 2 and Drawing 1). The site is open year round and receives over 40,000 

visitors a year. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

2 

PURPOSE AND METHODOLOGY 

The Cultural Landscape Report (CLR) is the primary document used by the 

National Park Service to guide the treatment and management of a cultural 

landscape. This second volume provides treatment guidance within the context 

of the site’s history and significance, extant features and historic character, and 

current planning objectives and management goals. For Sagamore Hill, treatment 

seeks to preserve and enhance its historic character within the context of other 

park management goals such as public access, natural resource conservation, 

recreation, and interpretation. Treatment is informed by the site history, existing 

conditions, and analysis of the cultural landscape’s significance presented in the 

Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Volume 1: Site 

History, Existing Conditions, and Analysis completed in 1995 (reprinted 2003). 

Based on the existing conditions and completed park planning documents at the 

time, managing the landscape for historic character is detailed in Cultural 

Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Volume 2: Treatment 

Recommendations and Implementation Plan, completed in 1998.2

 The primary 

planning document informing the 1998 report was a 1963 Master Plan developed 

when Sagamore Hill was transferred to the National Park Service. 

In 2008, the National Park Service redefined its management approach for 

Sagamore Hill for the next twenty years through a General Management Plan. 

The treatment recommendations herein are updated to align with the preferred 

planning alternative articulated in the General Management Plan. The updated 

treatment recommendations and plans also incorporate changes to the existing 

conditions since 1998 and new research from natural and cultural resource 

professionals. Changes to the existing conditions include several projects 

undertaken since 1998 to enhance the historic character of the property such as 

the removal of some successional vegetation, restoration of the daisy meadow, 

and propagation of the Cousin’s Beech. New sources of information from 

resource professionals include an invasive non-native plant management plan 

and 1910s film images complied by the Theodore Roosevelt Association. The 

films are now maintained in the Library of Congress American Memory 

collection and several images, including those recorded at Sagamore Hill in 1912 

for the film Roosevelt at Home, are featured in this report.3

The methodology used in this report is based on A Guide to Cultural Landscape 

Reports: Contents, Process, and Techniques (National Park Service, 1998). 

Expanding upon the recommendations in the 1998 document, this updated 

treatment plan is organized into two chapters. The first chapter establishes a 

framework for treatment that includes highlighting general treatment issues, 

outlining a primary treatment approach and period, and articulating a treatment 

philosophy for intended landscape character. The second chapter provides 

narrative tasks necessary to retain, enhance, and reestablish the historic character 
INTRODUCTION

3

of the landscape. The report concludes with appendices containing 

supplemental information and scope of work documentation for high priority 

tasks. Treatment tasks in the report are organized according to the following 

landscape characteristics: buildings and structures, vegetation, circulation, views 

and vistas, and small-scale features. For each task, a feature’s history, existing 

condition, and details on treatment implementation are provided. 

In support of the General Management Plan, a boundary survey was completed 

in 2006 and where needed, new survey monuments were set delineating 

Sagamore Hill’s property lines. This report utilizes the 2006 survey drawing as 

the base for all of the maps and maintains the New York State Plane coordinate 

system the surveyors referenced.4

 Older drawings and unprojected aerial 

photographs were either converted to the state plane system or proportionally 

scaled and rotated to align with the 2006 survey. For all maps, the canopy 

outlines showing masses of vegetation were traced from 2007 color orthophotos 

provided by Nassau County. A majority of landscape features were incorporated 

from a plan prepared for the 1995 Historic Plant Inventory for Sagamore Hill and 

checked with the orthophotos and information obtained during site visits in 

March and April 2009. 

This updated treatment document includes plans at four different scales to 

convey the existing conditions and treatment tasks. The plans depict the overall 

boundaries and context of Sagamore Hill, adjacent and related spaces that define 

the cultural landscape, and detailed landscape features. Specifically, a large-scale 

map at approximately 1”=300’ shows the overall property from an area west of 

Sagamore Hill Road to Cold Spring Harbor. Plans at a scale of 1”=150’ provide 

additional detail on the relationship among buildings, circulation features, and 

landscape spaces. These plans roughly divide the property in half with the 

western map starting at Sagamore Hill Road and proceeding east to the Cow 

Pasture. The eastern map overlaps a portion of the Cow Pasture and proceeds 

east to Cold Spring Harbor. Plans at 1”=60’ show the existing conditions and 

proposed rehabilitation of the Old Orchard complex and orchard. Finally, smallscale plans at 1”=30’ identify the existing conditions and treatment tasks 

associated with the Theodore Roosevelt Home and Pet Cemetery. 

STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site is presently updating its documentation for 

the National Register of Historic Places in conjunction with the 2008 General 

Management Plan. The site is significant under Criterion B for its association 

with Theodore Roosevelt, twenty-sixth President of the United States, and First 

Lady Edith Carow Roosevelt. The site is also significant under Criterion A and C 

for its association with estate development on the north shore of Long Island and 

its embodiment of the Queen Anne and Colonial Revival architectural styles. The 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

4 

site’s period of significance begins in 1884, with the construction of the Stable 

and Lodge and ends in 1948, with the death of Edith Carow Roosevelt. It reflects 

the tenure of President Roosevelt and First Lady Edith Carow Roosevelt, who 

together shaped and managed the public, domestic, agricultural, recreational, and 

natural landscapes that comprised Sagamore Hill. The period also encompasses 

the construction of Old Orchard, a second mansion erected on the property for 

Theodore Roosevelt Jr. and his family. The property is also significant for 

association with Theodore Roosevelt Jr., a public figure instrumental in the 

founding of the American Legion. The property also contains historical 

archeological resources that are significant under Criterion B and D, and are 

associated with Roosevelt’s use of the property, as well as a prehistoric site 

significant under Criterion D.5

 

For over sixty years, Sagamore Hill served as a working farm managed and 

maintained by Theodore and Edith Carow Roosevelt. Today the property retains 

its overall integrity with respect to location, design, setting, materials, 

workmanship, feeling, and association. Many of the structures associated with 

the Roosevelts remain including the main house, Gardener’s Shed, Farm Shed 

(formerly called the Carriage Shed), Chicken House (formerly called the Chicken 

Coop/Tool Shed), Gray Cottage, New Barn, Ice House, and Pump House.6

 

Others were removed by the Theodore Roosevelt Association including the Cow 

Shed, pig sty, and oxen pen. Landscape features including the field patterns, 

historic woodlands, ponds, and Cold Spring Harbor beach retain their 

appearance from the time of the family’s occupancy. The most notable change is 

that the property no longer functions as a working farm and successional 

vegetation has encroached on the open fields creating an increased sense of 

enclosure.7

 With guidance from the recently completed General Management 

Plan, the park is focusing on retaining the landscape’s historic character and 

enhancing its ability to interpret the Roosevelt tenure at Sagamore Hill. To 

achieve this objective, the primary treatment for Sagamore Hill is rehabilitation 

with a treatment date of 1948 to serve as a benchmark for managing the cultural 

landscape. 
5 

Introduction

Figure 1. Location map for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. Sagamore Hill is located in the Village of Cove Neck, within the Town of 

Oyster Bay, New York. The property is situated on one of the highest points of the Cove Neck peninsula (Regina M. Bellavia and George 

W. Curry, Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, vol.1, Site History, Existing Conditions, and Analysis, 1995; 

reprint, United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 2003).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

6

Figure 2. Map showing the historic core and outer acreage, circa 1919. Sagamore Hill can be divided into two major categories that 

reflect the site’s use during the Roosevelt tenure. Areas with limited or no development comprise the outer acreage and are distinct from 

the home, farm buildings, and agricultural spaces that comprise the historic core (Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report).

Outer Acreage

Outer Acreage

Smith’s Field

House Lot

Historic Core

Working Farm

Woodlands

Beach

C o l d S p r i n g H a r b o r

Legend

Overall Site

Historic Core

Outer Acreage

NOT TO SCALE
TREATMENT FRAMEWORK

7

TREATMENT FRAMEWORK 

The framework for treatment of the Sagamore Hill landscape is based on federal 

legislation, park planning documents, and previous cultural landscape research 

and recommendations. Chief among park planning documents is the General 

Management Plan, approved in March 2008. Based on the General Management 

Plan, this section articulates a treatment philosophy that preserves and 

enhances landscape character as it developed through the end of the Roosevelt 

tenure in 1948. 

RELATIONSHIP TO EXISTING PLANNING DOCUMENTS 

Congress approved enabling legislation for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site 

in 1962. As defined by the legislation, the purpose of the park is to preserve in 

public ownership and interpret the structures, landscapes, collections, and other 

cultural resources associated with Theodore Roosevelt’s home in Oyster Bay, 

New York, to ensure that future generations understand and appreciate the life 

and legacy of Theodore Roosevelt, his family, and the significant events 

associated with him at Sagamore Hill.8

A year after the legislation passed, the National Park Service acquired Sagamore 

Hill from the Theodore Roosevelt Association and efforts immediately focused 

on preparing a Master Plan. At that time, the Master Plan served as the primary 

planning document for the National Park Service. The Master Plan consists of a 

narrative document, a set of five drawing sheets entitled General Package 

Narrative, and a drawing sheet showing a Historical Base Map. A list of 

guidelines in the narrative state that the house, grounds, and woodlands, “...shall 

be preserved or restored as nearly as possible as it was during the historic period 

consistent with the needs of development, protection, and visitor use.”9

 The 

Master Plan does not clearly define the historic period, but emphasizes Theodore 

Roosevelt’s residency and the presidential era. This emphasis is seen in another 

guideline that calls for, “operation of the area to suggest the farming and outdoor 

activities Theodore Roosevelt engaged in.”10 Reinforcing the narrative 

document, the Historical Base Map identifies features in the landscape from 

Theodore Roosevelt’s tenure and was prepared with National Park Service staff 

consulting his surviving children, Archibald Roosevelt and Ethel Roosevelt 

Derby (Figure 3). 

Further documentation of the historic landscape was completed for the Cultural 

Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Volume 1: Site History, 

Existing Conditions, and Analysis (hereafter Volume 1) in 1995. Volume 1 details 

the property’s history and existing conditions in 1995 and provides an analysis of 

the significance of the cultural landscape. The report concludes that, in the same 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

8 

manner as the buildings and structures, the landscape and its features are 

significant for their association with Theodore Roosevelt from his purchase of 

the property in 1880 until his death in 1919.11 Volume 1 also calls for a treatment 

plan aimed at reestablishing the form of the historic farm and the preservation 

management of the historic landscape at Sagamore Hill.12 

To guide management of the resources identified in Volume 1, the Cultural 

Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Volume 2: Treatment 

Recommendations and Implementation Plan (hereafter Volume 2) was completed 

in 1998. Volume 2 explores treatment alternatives for the cultural landscape and 

recommends rehabilitation as the most appropriate choice for the park’s overall 

treatment. Rehabilitation was selected to preserve historic features, improve 

features that were in decline, and allow compatible changes at Sagamore Hill so 

the site could operate as a public park and fulfill its legislative mandate to 

interpret the life of Theodore Roosevelt.13 With rehabilitation selected as the 

preferred treatment alternative, Volume 2 then addressed specific 

recommendations for landscape features that were organized by landscape 

characteristic. 

As the National Park Service’s stewardship of Sagamore Hill entered into the 

twenty-first century, the agency undertook the preparation of a General 

Management Plan to serve as the new guiding document for planning and 

management at the park for the next twenty years. Approved in 2008, the 

General Management Plan identifies rehabilitation as the preferred treatment 

approach and emphasizes that the historic character of the site be retained and 

preserved. In addition, the plan calls for the removal of non-historic structures 

and the replacement of missing historic landscape and architectural features to 

enhance the park’s ability to interpret the Roosevelt tenure at Sagamore Hill 

(Figure 4).14

Three management objectives cited in the General Management Plan further 

define the rehabilitation treatment of the landscape. The first objective addresses 

the historic core that contains the Theodore Roosevelt Home, historic farm 

buildings, the Old Orchard estate, open fields, and contemporary visitor services. 

The second objective pertains to native plant species and natural diversity, and 

the final objective addresses universal accessibility at Sagamore Hill’s structures, 

grounds, and facilities. 

The first management objective states that, “Sagamore Hill’s cultural landscape in 

the historic core is rehabilitated to support interpretive objectives.”15 The 

broader interpretive themes identified for the park include: Sagamore Hill as the 

Roosevelt family’s private home and tensions between public service and private 

life; Sagamore Hill as the Summer White House and Theodore Roosevelt’s 

presidency in a changing community, country, and world; and Theodore 
TREATMENT FRAMEWORK

9

Roosevelt’s legacy and relevance in government, diplomacy, conservation, and 

literature.16 Actions identified for rehabilitating the cultural landscape in the 

historic core include: 

• Preserving and properly maintaining the landscape’s historic character 

• Replacing missing historic features such as portions of the flower and 

vegetable garden 

• Marking and interpreting other missing features such as the Stable and 

Lodge site 

• Managing areas of Roosevelt’s working farm to resemble their agricultural 

appearance 

• Removing non-historic features that do not contribute to the landscape’s 

historic character including ornamental trees and shrubs and the current 

visitor contact station 

• Removing or relocating commemorative features that detract from the 

landscape’s historic character 

• Preserving historic site engineering elements such as gutters and retaining 

walls 

• Selecting and locating outdoor site furnishings that are sensitive to 

landscape’s historic character 

The second management objective pertains to areas in both the historic core and 

outer acreage and states that, “The park’s cultural landscape is managed in a 

manner that opportunistically encourages native species and natural diversity 

where possible.”17 As a result of development activities and disturbance within 

and around the park, Sagamore Hill’s flora is comprised of forty percent nonnative plant species. Many of these plant species are invasive and threaten the 

character of maintained areas in the historic core and undeveloped areas in the 

outer acreage. Actions contained in this objective include: 

• Coordinating efforts among resource professionals to control non-native 

invasive species 

• Concentrating management efforts where techniques can be reasonably 

successful and sustainable 

• Maintaining Sagamore Hill’s mixed habitat complex of forests, fields, and 

fresh water that support several nationally and locally rare species 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

10 

The final management objective states that, “Structures, grounds, and facilities at 

Sagamore Hill are made universally accessible to the greatest degree possible.”18 

In accordance with federal laws and National Park Service Management Policies, 

all reasonable efforts would be made to make facilities, programs, and services 

accessible and usable by all people, including those with disabilities. Actions 

related to rehabilitating the cultural landscape include: 

• Improving access to historic structures without adversely affect the 

significant qualities of the historic landscape 

• Improve access to the grounds 

• Consulting with disabled persons or their representatives to determine what 

facilities and services are inaccessible and what might be done to make them 

accessible 

GENERAL TREATMENT ISSUES 

Several general treatment issues for Sagamore Hill’s cultural landscape were 

identified in the General Management Plan and through consultations with park 

staff. Properly addressing these issues will result in preserving the historic 

character of Sagamore Hill and improving the interpretation of the Roosevelt 

tenure. 

Management of fields and pastures 

Agricultural fields, pastures, and an expansive open area west of the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home were defining features during the historic period and 

distinguished the historic core of the working farm from the woodlands and the 

beach in the outer acreage. As Sagamore Hill transitioned from the Roosevelt 

family to the Theodore Roosevelt Association and finally to the National Park 

Service, historic open areas were not consistently maintained and successional 

woody vegetation emerged. 

Non-historic masses of large trees and shrubs now obscure the spatial 

organization of the historic farm and block internal and external views. This 

report examines areas of successional vegetation that should be managed to 

resemble an agricultural appearance. Proper management will reinforce historic 

spatial organization, maintain views, and improve the overall landscape 

character. 

Change in vegetation around the Theodore Roosevelt Home 

During the historic period, trees, ornamental shrubs, and vines grew around the 

Theodore Roosevelt Home. The yard featured trees in open lawn and on the 

home itself, vines were trained to grow on the library, porte-cochere, veranda, 
TREATMENT FRAMEWORK

11

and North Room. Today, changes in vegetation around the home have resulted 

in a loss of historic character. The lawn has been filled in with non-historic 

ornamental shrubs and the vines in almost all locations have been removed. The 

heaviest ornamental shrub planting is located between the entry drive and Ice 

House with a mixture of forsythia, lilacs, leucothoe, and pieris scattered around 

the buildings. This report details vegetation treatments that will enhance historic 

character around the Theodore Roosevelt Home. 

Loss of trees in the orchard 

An orchard existed at Sagamore Hill when Roosevelt purchased the property in 

1880 and continued to be a distinct landscape feature throughout his tenure. 

Between fifty and seventy fruit trees, primarily apples, where maintained in a 

northwest to southeast grid pattern on the easternmost section of the working 

agricultural landscape. The total number of trees and the consistent, geometric 

form of the ensemble planting were severely impacted by construction of the Old 

Orchard complex between 1937 and 1938 and a subsequent ice storm in circa 

1940. Since that time, additional trees have been removed or have declined with 

age. The current scattered arrangement of trees makes it difficult to discern a 

prominent landscape feature from the historic period. This report proposes to 

reestablish the orchard’s historic grid pattern in order to convey a component of 

the agricultural landscape from the Roosevelt tenure. 

Universal accessibility 

Sagamore Hill offers visitors accessible parking, some accessible circulation 

routes, and first floor access to the exhibits at the Old Orchard home. The 

General Management Plan directs that to the greatest degree possible, the park 

will make a reasonable effort to have accessible facilities, programs, and 

services.19 As the park’s primary resource, providing universal access to the 

Theodore Roosevelt Home is a priority of this management objective. Situated 

on the highest point on the property, there is presently no universally accessible 

route between the Theodore Roosevelt Home and visitor parking lot. Providing 

a new accessible route should not adversely affect features or the landscape’s 

character. This report proposes a schematic route that will minimize impacts to 

the landscape’s historic character. 

Consistency of circulation surfaces 

Prior to the completion of the Macadam Road in 1912, the vehicle and pedestrian 

circulation surfaces at Sagamore Hill were compacted earth. New circulation 

features have been added since the historic period to facilitate visitor access and 

operations as a National Park Service site. As a result, a variety of surfaces are 

presently encountered including crushed stone, brick, bluestone, and asphalt. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

12 

This report presents surface options that will aid in a more consistent and 

historically compatible finish for the park’s circulation systems. 

Management of invasive non-native plant species 

In preparation for the General Management Plan, Sagamore Hill completed an 

invasive non-native plant management plan in 2006. The plan identifies a total of 

thirty invasive non-native plants and classifies seventeen of the thirty as highly 

invasive. The report then outlines management techniques for the highly 

invasive species.20 The park is currently working with the Northeast Exotic Plant 

Management Team to implement the report recommendations. Invasive nonnative plant management is needed to preserve the open character of Sagamore 

Hill’s historic agricultural spaces and prevent emerging woody vegetation. 

Additionally, invasive non-native plants can block historic views and impact 

natural systems and features such as Eel Creek and the Lower Lake that were 

present during the historic period. This report highlights specific areas where 

managing invasive non-native plants can improve historic character. 

PRIMARY TREATMENT: REHABILITATION 

Management objectives in the General Management Plan for the historic core 

and outer acreage identify rehabilitation as the primary treatment for Sagamore 

Hill. The plan specifically emphasizes rehabilitation of the cultural landscape in 

the historic core to support the park’s interpretive objectives.21 

Rehabilitation acknowledges the need to meet continuing or changing uses 

through alterations or new additions while retaining the historic character of the 

property. It allows for repairs and alterations of the cultural landscape, and for 

improving the utility and function of landscape features. It is used to make an 

efficient, compatible use while preserving those portions or features of the 

property that contribute to its historical significance. For some historic 

properties, changes are necessary to accommodate visitor use, such as the 

addition of parking, concessions, and visitor facilities or the modification of 

circulation surfaces to withstand high use and meet Americans with Disabilities 

Act (ADA) accessibility standards. In other cases, modifications are necessary for 

sustainable management, such as the reduction of formal gardens or the 

elimination of agricultural practices. A rehabilitation strategy allows for the 

replacement of missing features as they existed historically based on 

documentary evidence, or replacement with compatible features. 

Standards for Rehabilitation 

• A property will be used as it was historically, or be given a new use that 

maximizes the retention of distinctive materials, features, spaces, and 

relationships. 
TREATMENT FRAMEWORK

13

• The historic character of a property will be retained and preserved. The 

removal of distinctive materials or alteration of features, spaces, and 

spatial relationships that characterize a property will be avoided. 

• Each property will be recognized as a physical record of its time, place, 

and use. Changes that create a false sense of historical development, 

such as adding conjectural features or elements from other historical 

properties, will not be undertaken. 

• Changes to a property that have acquired historic significance in their 

own right will be retained and preserved. 

• Distinctive materials, features, finishes, and construction techniques or 

examples of craftsmanship that characterize a property will be 

preserved. 

• Deteriorated historical features will be repaired rather than replaced. 

Where the severity of deterioration requires replacement of a distinctive 

feature, the new material will match the old in composition, design, 

color, texture, and where possible, materials. Replacement of missing 

features will be substantiated by documentary and physical evidence. 

• Chemical or physical treatments, if appropriate, will be undertaken using 

the gentlest means possible. Treatments that cause damage to historic 

materials will not be used. 

• Archeological resources will be protected and preserved in place. If such 

resources must be disturbed, mitigation measures will be undertaken. 

• New additions, exterior alterations, or related new construction will not 

destroy historical materials, features and spatial relationships that 

characterize the property. The new work will be differentiated from the 

old and will be compatible with the historical materials, features, size, 

scale and proportion, and massing to protect the integrity of the 

property and its environment. 

• New additions or related new construction will be undertaken in such a 

manner that, if removed in the future, the essential form and integrity of 

the historic property and its environment would be unimpaired. 

TREATMENT PERIOD 

Definition of a treatment period provides a benchmark for managing historic 

character in a landscape. A treatment period corresponds to a time during the 

historic evolution of the landscape when it reached the height of its development 

and when it best illustrates the park’s significance and interpretive themes. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

14 

Sagamore Hill’s National Register of Historic Places Registration Form is 

currently being revised. Based on the current draft of the National Register 

documentation, the period of significance for Sagamore Hill is 1884 to 1948 and 

“...reflects the tenure of President Roosevelt and First Lady Edith Carow 

Roosevelt, who together shaped and managed the public, domestic, agricultural, 

recreational, and natural landscapes that comprise Sagamore Hill.”22 The period 

begins with the construction of the Stable and Lodge and main house; 

encompasses Roosevelt’s years as president; includes his death, Edith’s 

subsequent management of the property and the construction of the Old 

Orchard complex; and concludes with Edith’s death in 1948. The end of the 

period, corresponding with Edith’s death, recognizes her management of the 

property and agricultural operations during Theodore’s lifetime and for almost 

thirty years after he passed away.23

This treatment plan recommends that the landscape be managed to preserve and 

enhance its character as it had developed through the end of the Roosevelt tenure 

in 1948. Managing for character based on 1948 does not conflict with the 

cultural landscape’s ability to support interpretive objectives focusing on 

Theodore Roosevelt and his tenure at Sagamore Hill that ended in 1919. 

Following Theodore Roosevelt’s death, Edith continued to oversee the operation 

of Sagamore Hill and agricultural production did not cease but was maintained, 

“...on a reduced scale, reflecting the reduced population of the property” during 

her tenure.24 In addition to a change in the intensity of agricultural production, 

changes in the landscape between 1919 and 1948 include: 

• Removal of akebia vines from the porte-cochere and veranda in circa 1922 

• Construction of the Old Orchard complex in 1938 and related changes to the 

property’s spatial organization, vegetation, circulation, and views 

• Loss of the Stable and Lodge due to fire in 1944 

• Alteration of the New Barn between 1944 and 1948 to serve as a residence for 

the caretaker 

• Addition of a new vehicular circulation route north of the Farm Shed to the 

New Barn 

• Addition of an outbuilding, the Cow Shed, north of the Farm Shed 

• Appearance of successional woody vegetation in portions of Smith’s Field, 

the South Field, and the West Lawn 

The most dramatic change to Sagamore Hill between Theodore Roosevelt’s 

death and the end of the period of significance was the construction of the Old 

Orchard complex. However, the addition of Old Orchard was consistent with a 
TREATMENT FRAMEWORK

15

second generation of the development throughout Long Island’s north shore. 

During the second quarter of the twentieth century, available land for new 

development became scarce and new residences were often created on portions 

of older estates by the children of the original estate owners.25 Additionally, the 

Old Orchard home is significant for its embodiment of the Colonial Revival 

architectural style and the complex is significant for its association with 

Theodore Roosevelt Jr. due to his career in public service and founding of the 

American Legion.26 The other changes at Sagamore Hill reflect the property’s 

continued use as a working farm and a reduction in maintenance intensity and 

consistency. 

TREATMENT PHILOSOPHY 

The ultimate goal of treatment is to improve the interpretation of Theodore 

Roosevelt, his life, and family by preserving and/or rehabilitating the characterdefining elements of Sagamore Hill as their residence and working farm, and 

improve visitor orientation, access, and circulation.27 Rehabilitating the 

Sagamore Hill landscape involves preserving the extant features that contribute 

to the significance of the site. In addition, characteristics of the cultural 

landscape that would have been evident during the Roosevelt tenure include: 

• A frequently visited home and actively used set of outbuildings that hosted 

many family members, visitors, and dignitaries 

• A working farm that was highly managed, cultivated, and maintained 

• Expansive gardens filled with fruits, berries, grape vines, flowers and 

vegetables 

• Frequent changes in the use of fields and cultivated areas for rotating crops, 

hayfields, and pasture with livestock 

To achieve a landscape character that better interprets the life and legacy of 

Theodore Roosevelt and his family, the late nineteenth and early twentieth 

century buildings in the historic core should be preserved. Fields and cultivated 

areas should be differentiated from manicured lawn and the woodlands in the 

outer acreage. The working farm should also convey that crops, fruit and 

vegetable production, and livestock were components of a maintained 

agricultural landscape. Circulation features should display surfacing compatible 

with the historic materials and an organized hierarchy according to 

transportation mode and use. Universal access to buildings and landscape 

features should be implemented to minimize impacts to the historic landscape 

and structures. Similarly, lighting and other contemporary structures needed for 

public safety should be selected that are small, minimize visual intrusions, and 

provide adequate coverage. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

16 

The woodlands in the outer acreage should be preserved with tree and shrub 

removal taking place only for safety hazards along the Woodland Trail and 

invasive species management. Invasive species management should focus on the 

seventeen targeted species identified in the Invasive Non-native Plant 

Management Plan. Care should be exercised in removing invasive species that 

have reached the canopy level as this will puncture the continuous canopy and 

with increased light penetrating to the woodland floor, may encourage the 

growth of additional invasive species.28 The Woodland Trail from Old Orchard 

and the boardwalk should be managed to provide a safe, durable, and clearly 

defined walking surface. Although research documents bathhouse and 

boathouse structures, their exact location on the Cold Spring Harbor beach is not 

known. Interpretative media should be used to inform visitors how Roosevelt 

and his family interacted with the beach and Cold Spring Harbor during the 

historic period. 
17 

Treatment Framework

Figure 3. Historical Base Map, 1963. After acquiring Sagamore Hill, the National Park Service began a Master 

Plan process and produced this map in consultation with Theodore Roosevelt’s surviving children. The map 

identifies features in the landscape from Theodore Roosevelt’s tenure and was part of a document that called 

for a restoration of the landscape to its appearance in 1919 (National Park Service).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

18

Figure 4. General Management Plan Map, 2008. The approved General Management Plan emphasizes that the historic 

character of the site be retained and preserved. In addition, the plan calls for the removal of non-historic structures and 

the replacement of missing historic landscape and architectural features to enhance the park’s ability to interpret the 

Roosevelt tenure at Sagamore Hill (National Park Service).
Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

Existing Conditions

Site Wide

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

0’ 150’ 300’ 75’

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. USGS DEM files provided by NYS DEC

4. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

5. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

6. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

Drawing 1

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Property Line

Mean High Water

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Tidal Marsh

NOTES

1. Projection: New York State Plane, Long Island Zone,

 NAD 83, US Survey Feet

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

Old

Orchard

New

Barn

Old Barn Site

Garage

Foreman’s Cottage

Cold Cellar

Gray Cottage

Cottage Garage

Maintenance Storage Garage

(temporary tent structure)

Woodpile Pond

Pig Sty Site

Lower Lake

Eel Creek

Pump

House

Windmill

Visitor

Contact

Station

Gardener’s Shed

Gazebo Pet Cemetery

Service Road Trace

Carriage Road

Retaining Wall

Woodland Trail

Boardwalk

Woodland Trail C o l d S p r i n g H a r b o r

Cow

Pasture

Orchard

Orchard

North Field

Visitor Parking Lot

South Field

Southeast Field

Ice House

West Lawn

Main House

Pet Cemetery Path

Tennis Court

Quentin

Roosevelt

Memorial

Flagpole

Approximate Location

Target and Rifle Pit

Retaining Wall

Macadam Road

Stable and Lodge Site

S a g a m o r e H i l l R o a d

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

0’ 37.5’ 75’ 150’

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Property Line

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

NOTES

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

Existing Conditions

West Enlargement

Drawing 2

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 3

New Barn

North Field

South Field

Southeast Field

West Lawn

Main House

Carriage Road

Retaining Wall

Retaining Wall

Tennis Court

Quentin

Roosevelt

Memorial

Flagpole

Approximate

Location

Target and

Rifle Pit

Cow

Pasture

To Old Orchard

Old Barn Site

Gray Cottage

Cottage Garage

Maintenance Storage Garage

(temporary tent structure)

Woodpile

Pond

Pig Sty Site

Windmill

Pump House

Visitor Contact

Station

Chicken

House

Farm

Shed

Ice House

Gardener’s Shed

Gazebo

Entrance

Sign

Stable and

Lodge Site

Macadam

Road

Visitor Parking Lot

Macadam Road

Service Road Trace

Pet Cemetery

Pet Cemetery Path

S a g a m o r e H i l l R o a d

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site OLMSTED for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

0’ 375’ 75’ 150’

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Property Line

Mean High Water

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Tidal Marsh

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 2

Existing Conditions

East Enlargement

Drawing 3

Old

Orchard

Garage

Foreman’s

Cottage

Cold Cellar

Orchard

Lower

Lake

Woodland Trail

Boardwalk

Woodland Trail

E

e

l

C

r

e

e

k

C o l d S p r i n g H a r b o r

Orchard

Orchard

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 7.5’ 15’ 30’

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Post and Chain Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

MAIN HOUSE ICE HOUSE

QUENTIN

ROOSEVELT

MEMORIAL

TO VISITOR

CONTACT

STATION

Wayside

Boulder

Wayside

Wayside

Flagpole

Trench

Drain

Benches

Benches

Trash

Receptacles

Catch

Basin

Catch

Basin

Hydrant Hydrant

Hydrant

Hydrant

Light Fixture

Pet Cemetery Path

White

Bench

Light Fixture

Light Fixture

Oil Tank

Covers

Light Fixture

Concrete

Gutter

Concrete

Gutter

Concrete

Gutter

Wayside

Wayside

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 5 MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 5

Macadam

Road

Stone

Edging

Stone

Edging

Existing Conditions

Theodore Roosevelt Home

Drawing 4

WINDMILL

PUMP HOUSE

WEST LAWN Wayside

1-1-34

1-1-34.5

1-1-35-R

1-1-37-R

1-1-30

1-1-23

3-1-23 1-1-48

1-1-52

1-2-9

1-2-40–

1-2-43

1-2-37–

1-2-39

1-2-50

1-2-51

1-2-52

1-2-1

1-2-4

1-2-3

1-2-10

1-1-48.5

1-1-49

1-1-51

1-1-44

1-1-53

1-1-58

1-1-60

1-1-44.5

1-2-6

1-1-63

1-1-77

1-1-78

1-1-88

1-1-79

3-1-39

1-2-7

1-1-45

1-1-45.5

1-1-26.5a 1-1-26.5

1-1-50

1-1-32

1-1-28.5

1-1-31

1-1-36

1-1-72

1-2-26

1-2-25

1-2-27

1-1-75.5

1-1-73

1-2-28

1-1-70

1-1-77

1-1-66

1-1-67

1-1-86

1-1-89

1-1-87

3-1-32

3-1-31

3-2-8

3-1-24

1-1-65

ID # Scientific Name Common Name Meets Historic Criteria?

1-1- 23 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 26.5 Acer palmatum Japanese Maple Y

1-1- 26.5a Acer palmatum Japanese Maple Y

1-1- 28.5 Fagus sylvatica 

'Purpurea'

Purple Beech Y

1-1- 30 Acer platanoides 

'Schwedleri'

Schwedler Maple Y

1-1- 31 Prunus sp. Cherry

1-1- 32 Prunus sp. Cherry

1-1- 34 Quercus velutina Black Oak Y

1-1- 34.5 Prunus serotina Black Cherry

1-1- 35-R Aesculus hippocastanum Horsechestnut

1-1- 37-R Fagus sylvatica European Beech

1-1- 36 Gleditsia triacanthos 

var. inermis

Thornless 

Honeylocust

1-1- 44 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 44.5 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 45 Cornus mas Cornelian Cherry

1-1- 45.5 Cornus mas Cornelian Cherry

1-1- 48 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 48.5 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 49 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 50 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 51 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 52 Juniperus virginiana Eastern Red Cedar Y

1-1- 53 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 58 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 60 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 63 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 65 Fagus sylvatica European Beech Y

1-1- 66 Ulmus americana American Elm Y

1-1- 67 Fagus grandifolia American Beech Y

1-1- 70 Pinus strobus White Pine

1-1- 71 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 72 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 73 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 75.5 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 77 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 78 Betula pendula European White 

Bark Birch

1-1- 79 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 86 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 87 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 88 Cornus florida Flowering Dogwood

1-1- 89 Acer platanoides Norway Maple Y

1-2- 1 Forsythia suspensa Weeping Forsythia

1-2- 3 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 4 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 6 Taxus baccata 

'Columnaris'

Columnar Yew Y

1-2- 7 Taxus baccata 

'Columnaris'

Columnar Yew Y

1-2- 9 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 10 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 25 Deutzia scabra Fuzzy Deutzia

1-2- 26 Wisteria species Wisteria species

1-2- 27 Philadelphus coronarius Mock Orange

1-2- 28 Taxus cuspidata Japanese Yew

1-2- 37 Hydrangea sp. Hydrangea

1-2- 38 Hydrangea sp. Hydrangea

1-2- 39 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 40 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 41 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 42 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 43 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 50 Leucothoe sp. Leucothoe

1-2- 51 Mahonia aquifolium Oregon Grape

1-2- 52 Mahonia aquifolium Oregon Grape

3-1- 23 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

3-1- 24 Aesculus x carnea 

'Briotii'

'Briotii' Red 

Horsechestnut

3-1- 31 Platanus occidentalis American Sycamore

3-1- 32 Platanus occidentalis American Sycamore

3-1- 39 Picea sp. Spruce

3-2- 8 Ligustrum sp. Privet

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 7.5’ 15’ 30’

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Property Line

Fence

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 4 MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 4

Existing Conditions

Pet Cemetery

Drawing 5

Pet Cemetery Arbor

STABLE AND LODGE SITE

GARDENER’S

SHED

Wayside

Bench

Concrete

Gutter

Pet Cemetery Path

Service Road Trace

Pet Cemetery Stone

Wayside

Vehicular

Gate S a g a m o r e

H i l l R o a d

Utility

Pole

Macadam

Road

2-1-61

2-1-62

2-2-2

2-2-3

2-2-4

2-2-5

2-1-63

2-1-58

1-1-65

1-1-99.5

1-1-98

1-1-94

1-1-95

1-1-90

1-1-86

3-1-33

4-1-9

4-1-10

4-2-34

4-2-36–

4-2-42

1-1-98.5

4-2-44 4-2-43

4-1-2

4-1-1

1-1-101.5

1-1-103

1-1-100

1-1-99

emaN cifitneicS# DI emaN nommoC ?airetirC cirotsiH steeM

1-1-65 Fagus sylvatica European Beech Y

1-1-86 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1-90 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1-94 Acer platanoides Norway Maple Y

1-1-95 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1-98 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1-98.5 Prunus serotina Black Cherry Y

1-1-99 Acer rubrum Red Maple Y

1-1-99.5 Pinus strobus White Pine

1-1-100 Catalpa speciosa Northern Catalpa Y

1-1-101.5 Betula papyrifera Paper Birch

1-1-103 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

2-1-58 Prunus serotina Black Cherry Y

2-1-61 Quercus (velutina) sp. Black Oak

2-1-62 Quercus (rubra) sp. Red Oak

2-1-63 Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca' Blue Atlas Cedar

2-2-2 Taxus baccata English Yew

2-2-3 Taxus baccata English Yew

2-2-4 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

2-2-5 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

3-1-33 Platanus occidentalis American Sycamore

4-1-1 Quercus alba White Oak Y

4-1-2 Magnolia x soulangiana Saucer Magnolia

4-1-9 Acer platanoides Norway Maple Not evaluated

4-1-10 Pinus strobus White Pine

4-2-34 Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer' Anthony Waterer Spirea

4-2-36 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-37 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-38 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-39 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-40 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-41 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-42 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-43 Ligustrum ovalifolium California Privet

4-2-44 Ligustrum ovalifolium California Privet

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

LEGEND

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site OLMSTED for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Projection: New York State Plane, Long Island Zone,

 NAD 83, US Survey Feet

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 15’ 30’ 60’

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Double-Post Split Rail Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

Contemporary Split Rail Fence

Stockade Fence

Property Line

Existing Conditions

Old Orchard

Drawing 6

OLD

ORCHARD

GARAGE

FOREMAN’S

COTTAGE

COLD CELLAR

COW PASTURE

Bench

Irrigation

Box

Bench

Bench

Bench

Bench

Trash

Receptacle

Staff / Handicap

Parking

Wayside

Wayside

Condenser

Light

Fixture

Gate

Light

Fixture

Light

Fixture

Concrete

Cap

Manhole

Transformer

Trail

Sign

Catch

Basin

Hydrant

Vent

Bike

Rack

Bluebird House

Path to Visitor Lot

Woodland Trail

Woodland Trail

Hydrant

Water

Valve

6-1-3

6-1-6

6-1-4

6-1-50 6-1-7

6-1-10 6-1-11

6-1-15

Black

Oak

Oak

Black

Walnut

Vertical

Yew

Common

Pear

Common

Pear Crab Apple

Wisteria

MacIntosh

Apple

Crab Apple

6-1-16

6-1-19

6-1-21

6-1-23

6-1-56

6-1-54

Hinoki

Cypresses

6-1-22

6-1-24

6-1-26

6-1-29

6-1-20

6-1-51

6-1-52

Red Oak

Red Oak

Red Oak

American

Dogwood

English

Hawthorn

Hickory

6-1-55

6-1-49

6-1-49-R 6-1-49-R

6-1-49-R

Red Mulberry

ID # Scientific Name Common Name Meets Historic Criteria?

6-1-3 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-

4 Malus pumilaAppleY

6-1-6 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-7 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-10 Malus 'Yellow 

Bellflower'

Yellow Bellflower 

Apple

Y

6-1-11 Malus 'Rome Beaut

y' Rome Beaut

y Apple Y

6-1-15 Malus 'Rome Beaut

y' Rome Beaut

y Apple Y

6-1-16 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-19 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-20 Malus 'Baldwin' Baldwin Apple Y

6-1-21 Malus 'Golden 

Delicious'

Golden Delicious 

Apple

6-1-22 Malus 'Golden 

Delicious'

Golden Delicious 

Apple

Y, semi-dwarf

6-1-23 Malus 'Red Delicious' Red Delicious Apple Y, semi-dwar

f

6-1-24 Malus 'Stark' Stark Apple Y

6-1-26 Malus 'Smokehouse' Smokehouse Apple Y

6-1-29 Malus 'Smokehouse' Smokehouse Apple Y

6-1-49

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

rY

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-50 Malus 'Red Delicious' Red Delicious Apple

6-1-51 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-52 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-5

4

Pyrus sp. Pea

rY

6-1-55

Pyru

s sp. Pea

rY

6-1-56 Catalp

a sp. Catal

pa

TREATMENT TASKS

31

TREATMENT TASKS 

This section outlines specific physical treatment tasks for rehabilitation of 

Sagamore Hill’s cultural landscape. The identification, history, and analysis of 

landscape features are based on the work presented in the Cultural Landscape 

Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Volume 1: Site History, Existing 

Conditions, and Analysis (hereafter Volume 1) completed in 1995. Many of the 

treatment tasks presented in this report build upon recommendations first 

articulated in the Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic 

Site, Volume 2: Treatment Recommendations and Implementation Plan (hereafter 

Volume 2) that was completed in 1998. Treatment tasks are organized by five 

landscape characteristics including buildings and structures, vegetation, 

circulation, views and vistas, and small-scale features. Tasks closest to the 

Theodore Roosevelt Home are discussed first followed by tasks that are further 

away from the home in the historic core. The presentation of tasks concludes 

with those located in the outer acreage. Proposed actions include adjustments in 

maintenance techniques, individual tree replacements, and woodland clearing. 

While most of these actions will result in only minor adjustments to landscape 

features and their maintenance, the cumulative effect will have a great impact on 

the overall character of the landscape at Sagamore Hill. The individual tasks are 

described through a combination of text and graphics. In addition to individual 

task descriptions and graphics, all of the tasks appear in a summary table at the 

conclusion of this section and are illustrated on Drawings 7–13.29

A site-wide drawing corresponding to the existing conditions Drawing 1 is not 

included in the seven treatment plans. In order to clearly communicate the 

treatment tasks, Drawings 7 and 8 are presented at an intermediate scale of 

1”=150’ showing first the approximate the western half and then the approximate 

eastern half of the property. More detailed treatment tasks are identified on 

Drawings 9 and 10 which show the Theodore Roosevelt Home and Pet Cemetery 

respectively at a smaller scale of 1”=30’. Finally, Drawings 11, 12, and 13 address 

the rehabilitation of the orchard by showing existing and recently lost fruit trees, 

proposed fruit trees to remove, and a proposed planting plan. All three drawings 

are at a scale of 1”=60’. 

BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES 

Sagamore Hill’s buildings and structures served as residences, supported farming 

operations, and were integral in the Roosevelt family’s use and enjoyment of the 

landscape during the historic period. Following the family’s departure from the 

property, some buildings and structures have been added or altered to facilitate 

Sagamore Hill’s staffing and operation as a public park. To improve the 

interpretation of Theodore Roosevelt’s life at Sagamore Hill, the General 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

32 

Management Plan calls for rehabilitation of the New Barn and Old Orchard. The 

following treatment tasks address methods for minimizing impacts on landscape 

features, removing non-historic features that detract from landscape character, 

and improving existing features to convey the landscape setting during the 

historic period. 

BL-1 Minimize landscape impact of rehabilitating and expanding the New Barn to 

serve as a visitor contact station 

When Theodore Roosevelt purchased Sagamore Hill, only one building was 

located on the property. Referred to as the Farm Barn or Old Barn, the building 

stored animal feed and carriage horses until it collapsed circa 1905.30 In 1907, 

construction was completed on the New Barn located in the southwest corner of 

the North Field near the fence that divided the North and South Fields (Figure 

5). Between 1944 and 1948, the New Barn was altered to accommodate a 

residence and garage and presently serves as park staff housing, storage, and a 

garage for park vehicles (Figure 6).31

Based on the 2008 General Management Plan, the existing, non-historic visitor 

contact station will be removed from Sagamore Hill’s historic core. To provide 

visitor services and foster a better visitor experience, the New Barn will be 

rehabilitated and expanded to serve as a visitor contact station. Non-historic 

additions to the New Barn’s exterior, such as siding and shingles, will be 

removed. Missing architectural features from the period of significance, such as 

the cupola and sliding barn doors, will be replaced.32 A compatible, 1,500-square 

foot expansion is proposed and will go through a rigorous design and review 

process to minimize impacts to the historic structure, archeological resources, 

and the cultural landscape. The General Management Plan proposes the 

expansion should be located to the east of the New Barn. 

In order to minimize the landscape impact of the expansion, the new 

construction should match or be smaller than the height and width of the New 

Barn to minimize impacts on views from the Theodore Roosevelt Home to the 

historic agricultural spaces. Furthermore, the area proposed in the General 

Management Plan is presently asphalt paving and constructing an addition here 

will minimize impacts to historic vegetation and potential archeological resources 

(Drawing 7).33 During the rehabilitation and expansion of the New Barn, nonhistoric, ornamental plantings should be removed and no new ornamental 

plantings should be added after the building work is completed. The New Barn 

and expansion are located in the North Field and proposed planting should be 

compatible with the agricultural crops historically grown in this field. A detailed 

discussion of rehabilitating the North Field and recommended planting is 

presented under the Vegetation section of the treatment tasks (VG-10). 
TREATMENT TASKS

33

BL-2 Rehabilitate Pet Cemetery arbor 

During the Roosevelt tenure, an arched arbor was located east of the Pet 

Cemetery and framed a pedestrian path from the Service Road to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home (Figure 7). The arbor was aligned on center with a north-south 

oriented, compacted soil path. West to east, the width of the arbor was roughly 

nine feet by six feet in length. Its approximate height was seven feet and 

underneath the arbor, wood benches flanked either side of the central path 

(Figure 8). 

The current arbor, benches, and central path all differ from the composition seen 

in historic photographs. Presently there are three wood benches, constructed 

from pressure treated lumber, and located on the north, west, and east sides of 

the arbor. Due to the bench on the north side, access through the arbor to the 

Service Road—presently a road trace—is impossible. A north-south oriented 

crushed-stone path ends at the arbor and expands to the west for visitors to 

observe the Pet Cemetery stone marker. The arbor is constructed from metal 

pipe that has been painted black and the paint finish is in fair to poor condition. 

The overall shape of the arbor is rectangular with rounded corners were the 

vertical pieces meet the horizontal, overhead members. A mixture of Norway 

maple, oak, and black cherry form a wooded area north of the arbor (Figure 9). 

The arbor is an important feature in the landscape that acts as a pedestrian 

gateway to the Theodore Roosevelt Home and is highly visible to visitors on 

Sagamore Hill Road. The current arbor is not historic and a new arbor, seating, 

and planting should be part of a rehabilitation to highlight the Roosevelt family’s 

use of their landscape and to reinforce historic circulation routes. 

Rehabilitating the arbor is a challenging task with few pictures from the period of 

significance and no written record providing a description, purchase 

information, or correspondence about the design and construction. The 

photographs do not clearly show if the arbor attaches to the benches or if the 

arbor members extend all the way to the ground. If the latter configuration is 

correct, it is not clear how the members are supported or anchored. 

The proposed design for a new arbor seeks to recapture the arched form of the 

historic structure and the symmetry of the bench layout. The arbor structure and 

benches are independent components and would allow flexibility if new research 

revealed details of the historic design. To reduce future maintenance 

requirements, the arbor should be fabricated and then the metal components 

finished with a color-galvanized coating in a light gray that matches the historic 

photograph.34 The color-galvanized coating will last longer and require less 

maintenance than traditional prime and paint finishes. Duncan GalvanizingTM 

and Voigt and Schweitzer GalvanizingTM are two national companies that offer 

color-galvanizing services. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

34 

Two new benches should be constructed that reflect the simple detailing seen in 

the historic photographs. The benches should be made from cedar, left 

unfinished, and allowed to weather naturally. Before the installation of the arbor 

and benches, the crushed-stone surface should be graded to balance a higher 

elevation on the east side and lower elevation on the west side. The arbor should 

be shifted slightly to the west from its current location to align on center with the 

current path. A concrete, sonotube footing should be installed at each corner of 

the new arbor. At the north end of the arbor, a three-foot wide crushed-stone 

path should be extended to the Service Road trace (Figure 10). The excavation 

for the footings and extension of the crushed-stone path to the Service Road 

trace will require review and consultation with regional archeologists. After 

installation of the new structure and benches, the historic character of the arbor 

should be enhanced by adding new plant material. Planting recommendations 

for the arbor will be discussed under Vegetation section of the treatment tasks 

(VG-7). 

BL-3 Remove non-historic wood gazebo in the flower and vegetable garden 

East of the Stable and Lodge and north of the Chicken House and Farm Shed, the 

Roosevelt family maintained a sizeable flower and vegetable garden during their 

stewardship of Sagamore Hill. The garden was rectangular in shape, 

approximately 3.2 acres in area, and produced all the fruits and vegetables the 

family needed.35

A central path lined with evenly-spaced trees divided the garden into northern 

and southern halves.36 A wood post and rail fence marked the southern 

boundary of the garden and kept it separated from the North Field. At the west 

end of the central path, an arched arbor marked the entry into the garden. South 

of the arbor, a planting bed contained cut flowers, space for the Roosevelt 

children to plant what they wished, and roses.37 In general, planting in the garden 

was divided into a western third containing fruit trees and flowers and a larger 

eastern portion where vegetables and grapes were grown. 

The entry drive for the current visitor parking lot, constructed in 1953, bisected 

the flower and vegetable garden and left a fragmented piece to the west and east 

of the drive. In September 1958, the Theodore Roosevelt Association purchased 

a nine-foot diameter, wood timber gazebo and installed the structure west of the 

entry drive at the end of the truncated central path.38

Although arbors were located in the historic flower and vegetable garden, the 

gazebo is a non-historic introduction. The gazebo creates the appearance that 

the central path was intended to terminate at a structure instead of continuing 

across the entire garden. Additionally, the gazebo implies the garden was 
TREATMENT TASKS

35

primarily decoration for a restful, covered seating area and not actively 

maintained to provide food and recreation opportunities. 

To better present and interpret the historic flower and vegetable garden as an 

integral part of the Roosevelt family’s daily life, the non-historic gazebo should be 

removed.39 Further discussion of the flower and vegetable garden is provided 

under the Vegetation section of the treatment tasks (VG-14). 

BL-4 Remove non-historic visitor contact station and rehabilitate chicken yard 

As a component of the working farm maintained during the Roosevelt tenure, the 

family and staff raised chickens and incorporated structures into the landscape to 

support this activity. In circa 1900, the Chicken House was constructed south of 

the Farm Shed on the western edge of the North Field.40 A chicken yard 

associated with the structure is indicated by a series of historic aerial photographs 

that show a region south of the Chicken House with a different surface 

treatment. 

In addition to the aerial photographs, evidence that an area south of the Chicken 

House was maintained as a chicken yard throughout the period of significance is 

supported by historic photographs, Edith Carow Roosevelt’s account books, and 

an insurance survey performed immediately following the end of the period. A 

circa 1918 photograph shows a fenced area south of the south facade of the 

Chicken House (Figure 11). The posts are four-by-fours approximately seven 

feet in height and spaced at four feet on center. Hexagonal mesh chicken wire is 

attached to the outside face of the posts. The posts appear to be attached to twoby-fours that were driven into the ground as stakes to secure the fence. On the 

inside face of each post, a two-by-four is visible extending approximately 

eighteen inches above the ground surface. The above ground portion of the stake 

provided a nailing surface to attach the post. Access into the chicken yard was 

through a double-leaf gate that swung away from the yard and was located at the 

southwest corner of the Chicken House (Figure 12). 

Edith Carow Roosevelt’s account books for the property span from 1912 to 1940 

and further demonstrate that throughout the period of significance, the family 

and staff raised chickens, sold chicken eggs, and would have maintained the 

chicken yard.41 Following Edith’s death, an insurance survey conducted in June 

1950 recorded extant structures and their condition on the property. There is no 

description of the chicken yard, however, the survey describes the “Wood Shed 

and Chicken House” and notes presence of “a few chickens kept in this 

building.”42 A diagram prepared for the survey shows the Chicken House, a 

second structure—the wood shed—attached to the east facade of the Chicken 

House, and a dashed line represented the chicken yard (Figure 13). Based on this 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

36 

diagram, the chicken yard measured approximately thirty by fifty feet with the 

longer dimension running south from the Chicken House. 

In 1956, the Theodore Roosevelt Association constructed a visitor contact station 

on the western edge of the North Field. Sometime between the 1950 insurance 

survey and this new construction activity, the chicken yard was removed. The 

visitor contact station was positioned west of the parking lot and southeast of the 

Chicken House and Farm Shed. The new building forms a barrier between the 

parking lot and the Theodore Roosevelt Home and its massing and exterior finish 

are not compatible with the agricultural buildings from the period of significance. 

The visitor contact station draws attention away from the Chicken House and 

Farm Shed and detracts from visitors’ understanding of the site as a working 

farm. 

As part of the General Management Plan, the park plans to expand and 

rehabilitate the New Barn to serve as a visitor contact station. Coupled with that 

objective, the park should remove the 1956 visitor contact station and rehabilitate 

the chicken yard. The existing picnic tables and associated site furnishings west 

of the visitor contact station should also be removed. The chicken yard should 

be defined by a fence constructed from series of four-by-four posts installed at 

four feet on center. The posts should be seven feet high and have hexagonal 

mesh chicken wire attached to their outside face. The fence should begin twelve 

feet east from the southwest corner of the Chicken House and extend twentyeight feet wide by forty-eight feet in length to create even sections with the post 

spacing. A double-leaf gate with each leaf having a diagonal cross brace should 

be located at the northwest corner of the fence where it meets the Chicken 

House (Figure 14). 

The proposed area for the chicken yard coincides with an existing area of 

stonedust paving west of the visitor contact station. The stonedust paving inside 

the chicken yard should remain and be periodically replenished. The stonedust 

paving outside the chicken yard should be removed, clean topsoil added to the 

removed area to match surrounding grades, and finally planted with a traditional 

lawn seed blend. Although located in the North Field, the Chicken House and 

chicken yard are not contiguous with other sections of the field due to the visitor 

parking lot. The Chicken House and chicken yard area share a boundary with 

the north section of the Southeast Field and identical to this area, should be 

managed as regularly mown lawn in order to support park programming. 

Recommendations for mowing schedules are presented under the Vegetation 

section of the treatment tasks (VG-13). The agricultural character of the chicken 

yard should be further enhanced through vegetation tasks described in treatment 

task VG-15. 
TREATMENT TASKS

37

BL-5 Minimize landscape impact of new maintenance facility near Gray Cottage 

In 1910, Gray Cottage was constructed for Roosevelt’s valet, coachman, and their 

respective families. The two and one-half story wood frame structure was 

located on the western edge of the woodlands and east of a forested ravine that 

divided the South Field. Based on a review of aerial photographs, a two-car 

garage was added west of Gray Cottage sometime after 1950 but before 1962. 

During the period of significance, the South Field was cultivated for hay 

production and most likely had alternating crops of alfalfa and timothy. 

Gray Cottage currently provides staff housing. Originally divided into two 

apartments, the structure has been modified into a single family home. The twocar garage is still present west of Gray Cottage and a temporary metal frame 

structure has been erected west of the garage for maintenance storage. 

The park’s current maintenance facility is located in the Old Orchard garage 

about 300 feet north of the Old Orchard home. The converted six-car garage 

provides 1,800 square feet of space for maintenance functions and lacks many 

operational and environmental safeguards. The garage has no fire suppression 

system and does not meet Occupational Safety and Health Administration 

(OSHA) standards for ventilation, lighting, and egress. Additionally, the building 

does not meet national or state codes for mechanical and electrical systems.43

Due to the size of the Old Orchard garage, the park has dispersed maintenance 

functions and storage to other locations on the site. In addition to a temporary 

structure near the Gray Cottage garage, dumpsters for trash and recycling 

collection are located in a paved area east of the New Barn (Figure 15). A 

stockpile of stonedust, to replenish the path to Old Orchard, is located in the 

Southeast Field as are a few piles for composting leaves and organic debris. The 

dumpsters, stonedust, and composting piles are partially screened by woody 

vegetation in the North and Southeast Fields. While the dumpsters can be seen 

looking south from the visitor parking lot, heavier vegetation and signage 

discouraging visitors from entering the Southeast Field and keep the piles out of 

view. The General Management Plan calls for removing the 1950s Gray Cottage 

garage and constructing a new 6,000 square foot maintenance facility in this 

general location. The existing topography in this area creates a challenge in siting 

a building of this size. 

The new maintenance facility should be appropriately located with minimum 

impact to the historic scene and configured to maximize visitor and employee 

safety and operational efficiency.44 A recommended approach would be to orient 

the long axis of the building in a roughly north-south direction. With woody 

vegetation removed from the North Field, this orientation would expose a 

smaller portion of the building when visitors look south across the field. Parking 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

38 

and vehicle storage would be to the west of the proposed building and a retaining 

wall would be required on two sides to provide a sufficiently level area for 

vehicles. A screen planting that utilizes a mixture of deciduous and evergreen 

species should be incorporated on the north side of the new building and parking 

area to further minimize views of non-historic features. The proposed plant 

material, such as eastern white pine (Pinus strobus), American holly (Ilex opaca), 

and blackhaw viburnum (Viburnum prunifolium), should be compatible with the 

surrounding woodlands and by blending with existing plants, will aid in 

screening the area (Figure 16). 

In addition to siting the new maintenance building, design development should 

include safe and functional circulation along with areas for trash and recycling, 

material storage, and composting. The existing trash and recycling containers 

and stockpiled materials are incompatible with the open, agricultural character of 

the historic fields. The presence of these items will be more pronounced after the 

existing woody vegetation has been cleared and the areas replanted with 

compatible grass species as detailed under the Vegetation section of the 

treatment tasks (VG-10). Plans for locating trash, recycling, and material storage 

must address the proper space and clearance requirements as well as providing 

access. Ideally, these areas would be located south of the new maintenance 

building so that the building screens the containers from views across the North 

Field. 

BL-6 Minimize landscape impact of addition for curatorial, research, and 

educational functions at Old Orchard 

When Theodore Roosevelt purchased Sagamore Hill in 1880, an orchard existed 

on the eastern edge of developed, agricultural land. During his thirty-nine years 

at the property, between fifty and seventy fruit trees, primarily apples, where 

maintained in a northwest to southeast grid pattern. In 1937, Theodore 

Roosevelt Jr. and his wife Eleanor commissioned architect William McMillan to 

design a nineteen-room, brick, Georgian Revival home in the southern portion of 

the orchard. McMillan’s design also called for a wood-shingled foreman’s 

cottage and six-car garage located approximately 250 feet north of the brick 

home. E. W. Howell Company completed construction on the three buildings in 

1938.45 The main home, known as Old Orchard, and the two other buildings 

were connected by a driveway that led to a road north of Sagamore Hill. The 

buildings and driveway occupied approximately one-half acre that had been 

orchard. Although the number of fruit trees was greatly reduced, trees remained 

in between the buildings and on either side of the driveway. 

In 1966, the first floor of Old Orchard was converted into a museum and the 

second floor into offices for National Park Service administration. The building 

continues to serve both interpretive and administrative functions and also 
TREATMENT TASKS

39

contains some collections storage. Additional archival storage is located in the 

basement of the Theodore Roosevelt Home but neither this space nor the one at 

Old Orchard is sufficient for curatorial staffing and adequate protection of the 

collections. Researchers wishing to study Sagamore Hill’s collections do not 

have a dedicated space and currently use the staff conference room in Old 

Orchard. To address the needs for climate-controlled collection storage, 

researcher workspace, and educational programming, the park plans to construct 

a 6,600-square foot addition at the Old Orchard home.46

The addition should be designed to minimize intrusions on views looking east 

from the historic core landscape toward Old Orchard. Furthermore, the 

proposed addition should not impact existing trees in the historic orchard or 

plans to rehabilitate the orchard. Therefore, the siting of the addition should be 

to the south and east of the existing Old Orchard home (Figure 17). Although the 

proposed location of the addition is within the footprint of the historic orchard, 

restoring a contiguous grid of fruit trees across the extents of the historic orchard 

is not possible due to the interruption caused by the Old Orchard home, auxiliary 

buildings, and circulation features. More uninterrupted space is available to the 

north and west of the Old Orchard home. In this larger area, the orchard should 

be rehabilitated to aid visitors’ understanding of an historic agricultural space. 

The orchard rehabilitation will be discussed further under the Vegetation section 

of treatment tasks (VG-12). Constructing the addition south and east of the Old 

Orchard home will require the removal of some existing trees, however, none of 

the trees were identified as dating to the period of significance in the 1995 

Historic Plant Inventory. 

BL-7 Replace Eel Creek Bridge in historic location 

During the historic period a bridge crossed Eel Creek near the northern property 

boundary and provided access to the beach along Cold Spring Harbor (Figure 

18). Based on a review of aerial photographs, the bridge was removed after 1950 

but before 1962. During the National Park Service’s stewardship of Sagamore 

Hill, a new bridge was constructed approximately 275 feet south of the historic 

location. Presently, Cold Spring Harbor beach is rarely interpreted and the 

difference in the current and historic bridges does not detract from the historic 

character of the site. When it becomes necessary in the future to replace the 

bridge, a more historically accurate construction and location should be used 

(Drawing 8).47

BL-8 Preserve culvert, retaining walls, and drainage gutters 

Several site engineering elements were constructed in association with the major 

vehicular routes that led to the Theodore Roosevelt Home. Near the southwest 

corner of the property, a culvert and a stone retaining wall were installed along 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

40 

the Carriage Road. The Macadam Road, constructed in 1912, replaced the 

Carriage Road as the primary vehicular route to the house. Designed by Hans 

Rude Jacobsen, construction of the Macadam Road included installing drainage 

gutters on either side of the new route. A design drawing shows the gutters 

consisted of four inches of broken stone set into a concrete trough (Figure 19). A 

1916 photograph shows the completed Macadam Road with the gutters present 

on either side. Immediately east of the road, a retaining wall is visible constructed 

from vertical wood posts and horizontal wood slats (Figure 20). At some point 

after this photograph was taken, the wooden retaining wall was removed and a 

dry-laid stone retaining wall was constructed. Further information on the 

construction of the stone wall has not been discovered. 

Both stone retaining walls were recently stabilized through a project that 

removed adjacent trees and involved masons from the Historic Preservation 

Training Center who reset the stones (Figure 21). In order to preserve the walls, 

continued monitoring will be necessary to identify and remove any emerging 

large, woody vegetation that could impact the walls. Additionally, major freeze 

and thaw cycles may disrupt a stone and any displacement should be addressed 

immediately to maintain the structural integrity of the walls. 

The culvert associated with the Carriage Road is currently covered by a large 

piece of bluestone and this cover should remain in place to reduce the possibility 

of accidents. The concrete drainage gutters are presently in good condition 

although the layer of broken stone is not present.48 Large equipment and vehicles 

should be kept away from the gutters and they should be monitored so that any 

damage is repaired before further deterioration can develop. 

VEGETATION 

During the historic period, the general character of the vegetation at Sagamore 

Hill was vernacular, consisting of features common to a working farm including 

fields, pastures, and woodlands. Vines were trained to grow at key locations on 

the Theodore Roosevelt Home and a lawn area around the home was planted 

with groupings of deciduous and evergreen trees. The eastern end of the 

working farm contained an orchard and the family maintained over three acres as 

a garden that produced fruits, vegetables, and flowers.49

After farming activities ceased, successional woody vegetation emerged in the 

agricultural spaces and changed the open landscape character to resemble the 

mature, surrounding woodlands. Vines were removed from the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home and in the adjacent areas, non-historic shrubs were added 

beneath the trees in open lawn. The orchard lost a significant number of trees 

and the flower and vegetable garden was interrupted by the current entry and 

parking lot. The vegetation treatment tasks address protection of historic, extant 

plant material, rehabilitation of missing features such as the agricultural fields, 
TREATMENT TASKS

41

removal of non-historic plants that detract from historic character, and 

management of invasive non-native plant species. 

VG-1 Replace vine planting on Theodore Roosevelt Home 

Photographs and documentary sources from the Roosevelt tenure at Sagamore 

Hill indicate vines were planted and maintained on components of the main 

house. Two vine species were trained around the columns of the porte-cochere 

and greeted the Roosevelt family and visitors arriving at the main entry. The 

south columns of the porte-cochere were planted with wisteria (Figure 22). The 

north columns and portions of the veranda were planted with fiveleaf akebia 

(Figure 23). The akebia can be identified as a different species due to its finer 

texture and distinct, palmately compound leaves (Figure 24). East of the portecochere, additional wisteria was planted around the bay window of the library. 

In a 1911 letter to his sister, Theodore Roosevelt stated, “...I am dictating this at 

my desk at Sagamore, and just outside the window the wisteria is blooming in 

masses on the vine that Edith planted with the special purpose of my being able 

to see it.”50 In addition to the porte-cochere, veranda, and library, vines were 

planted on the west and north facades of the North Room. Shortly after 

construction of the North Room in 1905, wisteria was planted at several locations 

along the two facades and trained to grow around the windows (Figures 25 and 

26). The wisteria remained on the porte-cochere, library, and North Room 

throughout the period of significance, however, the akebia was removed from the 

north columns of the porte-cochere and veranda in circa 1922.51

During the National Park Service’s stewardship of Sagamore Hill, the wisteria 

vines were removed to prevent damage to the Theodore Roosevelt Home.52 

Today, a wisteria vine is present near the southeast corner of the porte-cochere 

and another is growing southwest of the library’s bay window. Both vines may be 

remnants of or possibly self-seeded from the historic plant material. At both 

locations, the vines are maintained away from the building and without training 

or structural support their new growth splays across the ground. Other vines 

planted at the porte-cochere and North Room are not present. 

Vines were an integral component of the historic character of Sagamore Hill’s 

landscape and should be replaced. Their replacement should be done in a 

manner that avoids damage to the structure and reduces maintenance difficulties. 

A detachable trellis system should be installed that will prevent damage to the 

structure (Figure 27).53 Design details for such a system can be found in 

Appendix A. The following vines should be replaced on the main house: 

• Wisteria (Wisteria sp.) should be planted by the southwest column of the 

porte-cochere and allowed to grow up and around the column. The single, 

existing wisteria should be trained onto the southeast column. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

42 

• Wisteria (Wisteria sp.) should be planted southeast of the library’s bay 

window. An existing wisteria southwest of the bay window and the new 

planting should be trained to surround the window. 

• Wisteria (Wisteria sp.) should be planted along the north and west sides of 

the North Room and trained to cover those facades (Figure 28). 

The installation of a trellis system and vine planting should occur after exterior 

repairs to the Theodore Roosevelt Home, scheduled to begin in fall 2010. Once 

established, the vines should be pruned two to three times a year. The first 

pruning should be scheduled for spring to reduce the vines’ length to four to six 

vegetative buds. If the vines are vigorously growing, a second pruning can take 

place in August but this pruning is as needed. The final pruning should be 

scheduled for fall.54

VG-2 Replace shrub planting near porte-cochere 

Several photographs from the historic period indicate shrubs were planted south 

of the porte-cochere and in an area between the circular drive and library. A 

1905 photograph was analyzed in Volume 1 and a bridalwreath (Spiraea 

prunifolia) was identified along the circular drive east of the porte-cochere and 

south of the library (Figure 29). In the same image, barberries were identified at 

the southwest and southeast corners of the porte-cochere and a single yew 

(Taxus sp.) was identified adjacent to the barberry at the southwest corner.55 A 

later photograph shows a shrub planted near the southwest corner of the portecochere, however, it is difficult to clearly identify planting at the southeast corner 

(Figure 30). Finally, film recorded between 1916 and 1918 shows Roosevelt 

greeting visitors west of the porte-cochere. The camera looks over Roosevelt’s 

back at the circular drive lawn and a deciduous shrub can be seen near the 

southwest corner of the porte-cochere (Figure 31). 

In 1995, the Historic Plant Inventory recorded three Japanese barberries 

approximately six feet south of the porte-cochere. The barberries were spaced 

between eight and twelve feet apart. The inventory did not list an age range for 

the shrubs or if the shrubs were likely present during the historic period. 

Between the circular drive and library, the inventory recorded a hedge comprised 

of seven Japanese barberries. Volume 2 recommended that the barberry hedge 

be removed and today, the shrubs are no longer present.56 A single barberry is 

located near the southwest corner of the porte-cochere and is in fair to poor 

condition. 

In addition to replacing the vines on the porte-cochere, deciduous shrub 

plantings south of the structure and near the library should be replaced. Multiple 

photographs from the historic period show deciduous material while the 

presence of an evergreen shrub, identified as a single yew (Taxus sp.), is 
TREATMENT TASKS

43

inconsistent (see Figures 29 and 31). The added planting will improve the 

character of the primary entry used by the Roosevelts and experienced by visitors 

today. 

A bridalwreath (Spiraea prunifolia) should be planted east of the library’s bay 

window along the circular drive. Presently, a large purple beech (Fagus sylvatica

‘Purpurea’) that dates to the Roosevelt tenure is located immediately south of the 

library. In order to minimize potential conflicts with the purple beech, the 

bridalwreath should be planted at the end of the purple beech’s lifecycle. 

Deciduous shrubs should also be added south of the porte-cochere, however, 

barberries are not recommended for replanting due to the prolific number of 

seeds each barberry can produce and the ease with which they escape cultivation. 

Barberries have been identified by the U.S. Department of Agriculture as an 

invasive exotic plant species of management concern primarily because of the 

plant’s ability to spread by seed. The existing barberry near the southwest corner 

of the porte-cochere should be removed. In place of barberries, male 

winterberry hollies (Ilex verticillata ‘Jim Dandy’) should be planted since they are 

deciduous and compatible in leaf size and texture (see Figure 28). Male 

winterberry hollies will not produce fruit and compact-growing cultivars such as 

‘Jim Dandy’ will appear consistent with the character of shrubs seen in the 

historic images. Similar to other vegetation tasks around the main house, shrub 

replacement should occur after completion of exterior repairs to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home. 

VG-3 Replace cherry trees in circular drive lawn at the end of their lifecycle 

Photographic and documentary evidence from the period of significance indicate 

the tree species planted in the circular drive lawn were an American elm (Ulmus 

americana), a Scotch elm (Ulmus glabra) and a tulip poplar (Liriodendron 

tulipifera) (Figure 32 and see Figure 30). Visual characteristics from the 

photographs are supported by a 1911 map prepared by Hans Rude Jacobsen for 

improvements to paving and drainage at Sagamore Hill. Jacobsen’s map 

identified two elms and a tulip poplar in the drive circle. A year later, a work 

order from Hick’s Nurseries listed the Scotch elm as “near the front door.”57

In 1949, less than a year after Edith Carow Roosevelt’s death, A. J. Edwards and 

T. S. Prime prepared a survey focusing on approximately twenty acres around the 

Theodore Roosevelt Home. The survey confirms the three trees were extant at 

the end of the period of significance.58 In 1950, photographs of the south facade 

and circular drive show only the American elm on the western portion of the 

lawn and by 1957, the elm was removed (Figure 33). That same year, Japanese 

Premier Nobusuke Kishi visited Sagamore Hill and with the Theodore Roosevelt 

Association, planted two cherry trees in the circular drive lawn to recognize 

Roosevelt’s role in the Russo-Japanese War peace negotiations. The trees were 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

44 

offspring of the 1912 trees planted at the Washington, D.C. tidal basin.59 The 

cherry trees are still present in the circular lawn and are in good condition. When 

in bloom, the trees are visited by Japanese tourists and enjoyed by other visitors 

to the park (Figure 34). 

The cherry trees are a commemorative planting and were not present during the 

period of significance. After the cherry trees have substantially declined and 

require removal, the circular drive lawn should be planted with the American 

elm, Scotch elm, tulip poplar identified by historic photographs and documents. 

The American elm should be located on the west side, the Scotch elm on the east 

side, and the tulip poplar on the south side of the circle (Figure 35).60 Following 

their removal, the cherries should be replaced in kind in a location where there 

are plantings that post date the period of significance, such as the northern or 

southern perimeter of the visitor parking lot. 

VG-4 Replace honey locust with American elm at southwest corner of Theodore 

Roosevelt Home 

Historic photographs from the period of significance indicate that an elm tree 

anchored the southwest corner of the Theodore Roosevelt Home. The elm 

would have been seen by visitors approaching the home from the Carriage Road 

and this entry experience and view was one of the most significant features of 

Sagamore Hill’s landscape. In addition, the elm was in close proximity to the 

veranda where Roosevelt delivered acceptance speeches for his nomination for 

Governor, Vice President, and President to audiences gathered on the West 

Lawn. Both speaker and members of the audience would have been in shade cast 

by the gracefully arching branches of the elm (Figure 36). 

Volume 1 and 2 identified the historic elm as a “weeping elm” (Ulmus sp.) based 

on maintenance work orders from a local nursery.61 Still images recently 

captured from the 1912 film Roosevelt at Home suggest that the elm was an 

American elm (Ulmus americana) and the “weeping” appearance is part of the 

tree’s habit and not indicative of a weeping cultivar or variety (Figure 37). 

Based on historic photographs, a thornless honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos 

var. inermis) was planted after 1950 at the southwest corner of the home. The 

honey locust is extant and in good condition, however, it displays characteristics 

that are not consistent with the historic elm. Most notably, the canopy of the 

honey locust has a broader, more horizontal habitat. In contrast, elm branches 

form a “V” shape that is closer to the main trunk, then extend out in a more 

horizontal plane, and finally arch gently down toward the ground. 

In order to provide visitors with the form and characteristics of a highly visible 

tree that existed during the historic period, the existing honey locust should be 

removed and replaced with an American elm. American elms are susceptible to 

Dutch elm disease—a fungus brought to the tree by the Dutch elm beetle—and 
TREATMENT TASKS

45

many individual and group plantings of elms have been decimated by the disease. 

Current research recommends planting one of two cultivars. In field tests the 

American elm cultivar ‘Valley Forge’ showed the best resistance and the cultivar 

‘Princeton’ showed the most vigorous growth and very good resistance.62 ‘Valley 

Forge’ should be selected for the southwest corner of the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home due to its better disease resistance and because its habit is more pendulous 

and in keeping with the historic images. 

VG-5 Inspect and repair lightning protection for signature trees from the period 

of significance 

Dating to the mid-eighteenth century, a white oak (Quercus alba) located near the 

Service Road was a substantial tree when Roosevelt purchased Sagamore Hill and 

commissioned the design and construction of the home. After construction was 

completed, other trees were immediately planted around the home and by the 

early 1890s, were well established (Figure 38).63 One of these trees, a purple 

beech (Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’), was planted east of the porte-cochere and just 

south of the first floor library.64 Both trees have an association with the property 

during the period of significance and were defining features in the landscape. 

Sagamore Hill’s successive stewards have maintained these trees and as part of 

that process, lightning protection was added to both. Lightning protection was 

also added to an American elm (Ulmus americana) northwest of the North Room 

and a sugar maple (Acer saccharum) east of the North Room. Both trees have 

been identified as dating to the Roosevelt tenure. 

Today at certain locations, the grounding cable is not secured to the trees. At 

other locations, the tree has grown around the cable (Figure 39). Since wood is a 

poorer conductor than metal, the cable’s ability to ground charges has been 

reduced and it is not providing full protection. In addition, the air terminal of the 

protection system is no longer at a high location in the tree canopy where it can 

be most effective. 

To continue preserving signature trees from the period of significance, a certified 

arborist should be contracted to inspect and repair the lightning protection 

system. Due to the oak’s proximity to the Gardener’s Shed and the purple beech, 

American elm, and sugar maple’s proximity to the Theodore Roosevelt Home, a 

lighting strike to the trees could also result in damage to nearby historic 

structures. Therefore, inspecting and repairing the protection systems would be 

beneficial to multiple resources. 

At the Theodore Roosevelt Home, lighting protection is being upgraded as part 

of the building’s pending exterior repairs and inspecting and repairing the 

protection for the trees should be coordinated with that effort. In addition, a 

certified arborist should routinely monitor the four trees for any signs of damage 

or disease and recommend and perform necessary treatments.65 Many other 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

46 

existing trees at Sagamore Hill date to the Roosevelt tenure, however, these trees 

are not likely candidates for new lightning protection systems. Unless a tree is 

immediately adjacent to an historic structure, the initial cost of a protection 

system and required routine maintenance can be excessive given the low 

probability of a lightning strike. 

VG-6 Remove non-historic shrubs at the Ice House 

Shortly after the completion of the Theodore Roosevelt Home in 1885, the Ice 

House was constructed about twenty feet east of the kitchen wing. Ice would be 

collected or cut from nearby ponds and placed in a below ground storage area 

enclosed by a brick, octagonal structure (Figure 40). Areas around the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home, including the Ice House, featured trees in open lawn and were 

distinct from the open West Lawn and agricultural spaces. 

During the Theodore Roosevelt Association stewardship of the property, the Ice 

House was renovated to provide public restrooms. Non-historic, ornamental 

shrubs including pieris, leucothoe, and forsythia were added in the lawn area 

between the circular drive and Ice House (Figure 41). Shrubs were interspersed 

in lawn, placed at the foundation of the Ice House, and aligned along the edges of 

a new brick walkway that connected the circular drive and Ice House. The 

restrooms were closed in 1956 with the completion of the visitor contact station, 

however, the shrub planting and brick walkway remain largely intact and create a 

more formal setting for a utilitarian outbuilding. 

The non-historic shrubs at the Ice House should be removed (Figure 42). The 

large trees to the east of the Ice House and the vertical yews should remain and 

be protected during any work on or near the structure. Removal of the nonhistoric shrubs should be coordinated with planned exterior repairs to the 

Theodore Roosevelt Home. Finally, shrub removal should be coordinated with a 

rehabilitation of the Ice House walkway discussed under the Circulation section 

(CR-3). 

VG-7 Replace shrub and vine planting at rehabilitated Pet Cemetery arbor 

During the Roosevelt tenure, an arched arbor was located east of the Pet 

Cemetery and framed a pedestrian path from the Service Road to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home. On the west and east sides of the arbor, wood benches and 

plant material created a symmetrical composition based on the centerline of the 

pedestrian path. The benches were placed under the arbor on lawn located on 

either side of the path. Two large deciduous shrubs or small trees were planted 

on the north side of the arbor. The two separate plants were equally spaced on 

the west and east side of the structure and reinforced the central axis of the path. 

In an historic photograph looking north, rambler roses (Rosa sp.) are visible 
TREATMENT TASKS

47

growing on both sides of the arbor, climbing toward the top of the curved 

supports (see Figure 8). 

At present, roses are not growing on the arbor and the symmetrically place 

deciduous shrubs are absent. The existing trees located north of the arbor, 

particularly the dense foliage of the Norway maples, cast heavy shade on the 

location and make sustaining some plant material difficult. 

In addition to rehabilitating the arbor structure and benches, shrubs and vines 

should be replaced to create a compatible ensemble of features that were present 

during the period of significance. Prior to new vine and shrub planting, several of 

the Norway maples should be removed to increase the amount of light in this 

area. Following those removals, two nannyberry viburnums (Viburnum lentago) 

should be planted on the north side of the arbor in line with the west and east 

arbor posts. The nannyberry viburnums are compatible in size, form, and texture 

with the deciduous shrubs visible in the historic photographs. In addition, 

nannyberry viburnums will be more tolerant of shade cast by nearby trees than 

other deciduous shrub species. 

Photographic analysis from Volume 1 identified the rambler roses growing on the 

arbor.66 Even with the proposed tree removal there may not be sufficient light to 

maintain climbing roses. Two possible shade tolerant species include ‘Ghislaine 

de Feligonde,’ a hybrid multiflora introduced in 1916 and ‘Cornelia,’ a hybrid 

musk introduced in the 1920s.67 If establishing climbing roses is not successful, a 

vine species that can handle moderate shade, like a white flowering clematis 

(Clematis ‘Henryi’), should be planted along the west and east supports of the 

arbor and encouraged to twine up the metal structure. The lawn flanking the 

path in the historic photographs will be difficult to establish given the amount of 

shade and potential for visitor foot traffic. Therefore, the crushed-stone 

surfacing should remain under the entire arbor structure (see Figure 10). 

VG-8 Remove woody vegetation from the Service Road trace roadbed and banks 

Theodore Roosevelt purchased the Sagamore Hill property in 1880 and around 

that time, prepared a sketch that identified the property’s existing agricultural 

uses, circulation, and natural features. In the northwest corner of the property, 

Roosevelt recorded a road that originated from the western property line, 

continued north, and wrapped east around two fields containing grass stubble 

and buckwheat (Figure 43). As Sagamore Hill was developed with the 

construction of the home, Stable and Lodge, and other outbuildings, this road 

became a Service Road that provided access to the working agricultural areas as 

opposed to the main entry route to the home. The Service Road had a 

compacted soil surface and while arguably wide enough to accommodate a 

carriage or farm equipment, its width during the Roosevelt tenure is not 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

48 

documented.68 After heading east past the Pet Cemetery, the Service Road 

turned south and terminated at the Carriage Road that connected the main house 

with the Stable and Lodge.69

In 1953, as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Association plan to open Sagamore 

Hill to the public, a new county road was constructed primarily over the historic 

route of the Service Road.70 A portion of the historic Service Road, north of the 

Pet Cemetery and heading in a west to east direction, was not overlaid by the new 

county road (Figure 44). No longer utilized, the remaining Service Road became 

obscured in woodland vegetation. 

Today, the Service Road is visible as a trace surrounded by woodland vegetation. 

The former roadbed is at a lower elevation than the surrounding grades with 

earth banks providing a transition from the north and south sides of the bed to 

the higher grades. The depressed bed and sloping banks clearly read as a 

landform that define the route for the Service Road. The bed is maintained free 

of vegetation and is currently surfaced with a thick layer of wood chips. Trees at 

the top of each bank help to reinforce the edges of the Service Road. 

In order to preserve the Service Road trace, woody vegetation should be removed 

from the roadbed and banks. The wood chip surfacing should be replenished 

annually to discourage woody and herbaceous vegetation. Wood chips should 

come from the park or locally verified sources that will not introduce pathogens 

and insects such as the Asian longhorn beetle. In addition to the wood chip 

surfacing, any emerging vegetation on the roadbed should be mown or cut with 

monofilament trimmers. Trees should be selectively removed from the banks to 

prevent toppling during storm events and damage to the earthwork. Trees 

immediately beyond the banks may be candidates for removal as well, especially 

if there are signs of disease and damage. Following removal, the steep slopes of 

the banks should be planted with Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus quinquefolia) 

to stabilize the earth. Although information has not been discovered on 

groundcover planting along the Service Road during the Roosevelt tenure, 

Virginia creeper is an appropriate choice. Virginia creeper is a vine native to the 

eastern United States that will spread along the bank, limit potential erosion, and 

can tolerate the shade cast by other trees in the area.71 After the Virginia creeper 

has established, the banks should be inspected once every year and the vines 

pruned back if they are approaching or climbing tree trunks. An additional 

discussion of compatible surface treatments for the Service Road is presented 

under the Circulation section (CR-4). 

VG-9 Rehabilitate West Lawn 

Situated on one of the highest points on the Cove Neck peninsula, the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home offered family and visitors alike a view west from the veranda to 
TREATMENT TASKS

49

Oyster Bay. Similarly, anyone traveling to the property on the Service Road had a 

view east of the home perched atop Sagamore Hill. Both of these views were 

enabled by an expansive lawn area, approximately five acres, immediately west of 

the main house. Referred to presently as the West Lawn, the area was divided 

into two distinct vegetation types during the Roosevelt tenure. In the vicinity of 

the main house, the lawn was cut shorter and more frequently than in other parts 

of the working agricultural landscape. About thirty-five feet from the west facade 

of the house, the maintained lawn transitioned to a meadow that continued west 

to the Service Road. Historic photographs show that the meadow was 

maintained at approximately eighteen to twenty-four inches and that oxeye 

daisies were the dominant flowering plant in the late spring and early summer. 

Prompted by the abundance of the white flowers, Roosevelt family members 

referred to the area as the “Daisy Meadow” (Figure 45). 

Similar to other open, agricultural spaces at Sagamore Hill, the West Lawn was 

not frequently maintained during the Theodore Roosevelt Association’s 

stewardship of the property. Successional woody vegetation can be seen in a 

1950 aerial photograph and was left unchecked (Figure 46). By the late 1990s, the 

open and expensive character of the West Lawn was severely compromised by 

large trees and shrubs. 

In the past decade, a large portion of the West Lawn was cleared. The cleared 

area is currently a mixture of perennial rye grass, tall red fescue, oxeye daisies, 

broad-leaf weeds, and woody invasives like Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera 

japonica) and multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora). South of the cleared area, a 

section of the West Lawn remains in forested cover with major species that 

include red oak (Quercus rubra), yellow birch (Betula alleghaniensis), and 

Norway maple (Acer platanoides). 

Non-historic successional vegetation should be removed from nine tenths of an 

acre immediately south of the West Lawn’s existing cleared area. A non-selective 

herbicide should be applied across the existing cleared area that will kill both the 

woody invasive plants and the existing grasses and herbaceous material. The 

park should continue to work with the Northeast Exotic Plant Management 

Team to manage the invasives in the West Lawn. After the removal of 

successional vegetation and treatment of invasives, the West Lawn should be 

seeded with a mixture of native warm season grasses and forbs. 

Since daisies were the dominant flowering plant in the West Lawn, extra 

measures need to be taken to ensure they are reestablished after the clearing and 

invasive treatment. Oxeye daisies are originally a European species and it will be 

difficult to find a seed mix or supplier that incorporates oxeye daisies with native 

warm season grasses.72 In order to establish daisies, their seeds should be 

purchased independently from the main mix and applied by a mechanical or 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

50 

hand-operated spreader. The daisy seeds should be applied after the main mix 

has been planted by a seed drill because the daisy seeds, and any other ground 

debris, can clog the drill mechanism. If the main mix is applied by hydro-seeding, 

the daisy seeds should be spread first before the wood fiber mulch, a component 

of hydro-seeding, covers the ground. Once the grass, forb, and daisy seeds have 

established, the West Lawn should be mown to encourage daisy flowering and 

the character of the lawn seen in historic photographs. A proposed mowing plan 

detailed in task VG-13 will provide further information on heights, frequency, 

and seasons for mowing. 

VG-10 Rehabilitate Southeast, South, and North Fields 

During the Roosevelt tenure at Sagamore Hill, four agriculture spaces were 

maintained in an area east of the main home and west of the orchard. The 

eastern most area was a pasture that research indicates was referred to as the Cow 

Pasture. Research has not revealed if the three other spaces were known by 

individual names. Since the existing conditions of the Cow Pasture are markedly 

different compared to the other three agriculture spaces, treatment 

recommendations for the Cow Pasture are addressed separately. 

To avoid confusion in discussing the other three agricultural spaces, this updated 

treatment plan refers to them as the Southeast, South, and North Fields (see 

Figure 46). The four spaces were distinct during the historic period and their 

edges were defined by fence lines, vegetation, and circulation features. 

The Southeast Field, located southeast of the main house and immediately east of 

the Windmill, was a cultivated field where corn and timothy were grown (Figure 

47). The field was roughly triangular in shape with the south side defined by 

Sagamore Hill’s property line. On the west side of the field, the Carriage Road 

and later the Macadam Road served as boundaries. On the east side, a fence line 

ran perpendicular to the property line and proceeded north to form a point near 

the Stable and Lodge. 

East of the Southeast Field were two rectangular spaces now referred to as the 

North Field and the South Field. The North Field was the larger of the two areas 

and was bounded by the Southeast Field to the west, the flower and vegetable 

garden to the north, and the Cow Pasture to the east. The southern boundary 

was a fence line that separated the North and South Fields. The South Field was 

divided by a forested ravine that emerged from woodlands on the field’s southern 

and eastern boundaries. Both fields were used for grazing and hay production 

and most likely had alternating crops of alfalfa and timothy (Figure 48). 

The agricultural spaces present during the Roosevelt years at Sagamore Hill were 

not rigorously maintained when the Theodore Roosevelt Association began their 

stewardship of the property following Edith Carow Roosevelt’s death in 1948. 
TREATMENT TASKS

51

An aerial photograph from 1950 shows successional forest growth emerging in 

parts of the Southeast and South Fields (see Figure 46). The succession process 

was allowed to continue and larger deciduous trees replaced smaller pioneer 

species. Today, the clear definition of these three agricultural spaces is lost. All 

three fields are moderately to heavily wooded and contain large numbers 

Norway maples (Acer platanoides), black cherries (Prunus serotina) and tulip 

poplars (Liriodendron tulipifera). In addition, the understory contains invasive 

non-native species including Asiatic bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) and 

multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora). The northern portion of the Southeast Field, 

closest to the Windmill and Stable and Lodge site, is maintained as regularly 

mown lawn. This area also contains an asphalt path that provides pedestrian 

circulation from the visitor contact station to the Theodore Roosevelt Home. 

Deciduous trees are interspersed along both sides of the path and are 

accompanied by benches, trash receptacles, and waysides. Another circulation 

change dramatically affects the North Field. Installed in 1954, a visitor parking 

lot occupies roughly two-thirds of the historic field.73

In order to convey the agricultural character of Sagamore Hill during the period 

of significance, the Southeast, South, and North Fields should be rehabilitated. 

The rehabilitation process should start with treatment of invasive non-native 

species that are present in the wooded areas. The park should also move the 

composting and material storage areas from the Southeast Field to the proposed 

maintenance facility located near Gray Cottage. 

Following these two steps, the non-historic woodland vegetation should be 

removed. The neighbors south of the park expressed concerns about views to 

their properties once successional vegetation had been cleared. Historically, the 

fields were maintained up to the southern fence lines that defined their 

boundaries. To minimize non-historic views, clearing should not extend all the 

way to the fence lines. The exact limit of clearing needs to be reviewed and 

determined in the field because specifying a buffer distance, for example twenty 

feet, may work in one location but only leave one existing tree in another. To 

improve visual screening between the park and neighboring properties, native 

evergreen trees such as eastern white pine (Pinus strobus) and American holly 

(Ilex opaca) should be planted in strategic locations. 

After the fields have been cleared, they should be seeded with a mixture of native 

warm season grasses and forbs. Growing corn, cultivating other crops, or actively 

haying the fields would be appropriate treatments, however, their successfully 

implementation would require routine and intensive maintenance that the park 

may not have the staffing to sustain. In addition, it is unlikely a local farmer 

would be interested in managing Sagamore Hill’s fields for hay. For visual 

compatibility, warm season grasses in the proposed mixture should not exceed 

three feet in height as timothy, alfalfa, and other species used in grazing and hay 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

52 

production are not excessively tall. Forbs should comprise ten percent or less of 

the seed mixture as the fields were agricultural and not wildflower meadows. 

After the newly seeded fields establish, the heights, frequency, and seasons for 

mowing should follow the recommendations in task VG-13. 

VG-11 Rehabilitate Cow Pasture 

In addition to the Southeast, North, and South Fields, a fourth agricultural space 

existed in the historic core of Sagamore Hill. Interviews with Ethel Roosevelt 

Derby, Theodore and Edith’s daughter, identified the open space immediately 

west of the orchard as a Cow Pasture that contained daisies and clover.74 The 

Cow Pasture was a rectangular space defined by fences on all sides. In addition 

to the fence lines, the pasture’s area was further reinforced by distinct, adjacent 

spaces. The orchard bounded the east side of the pasture and woodlands 

bounded the north and south sides of the space. West of the pasture was the 

North Field and vegetation along the fence line between these two spaces 

strengthened their demarcation.75

The fence lines that historically defined the four edges of the pasture are present 

today and are in good condition. Approximately five years ago, the park installed 

a stonedust path to provide access between the visitor parking lot and Old 

Orchard complex. The path divides the pasture into roughly equal north and 

south halves. The north half is relatively flat with the topography sloping slightly 

from north to south. In the southern half, the grade begins to slope steeply 

starting about 130 feet south of the path and continuing toward the woodlands. 

The maximum slope of the southern half approaches twenty percent (5:1 ratio). 

Due to a recent equipment failure, the southern portion has not been consistently 

mown and is predominantly wood invasive species (Figure 49). The rest of the 

pasture is composed of a mixture of grass species, including perennial rye grass, 

creeping red fescue, and clover. An individual plant of giant ironweed (Vernonia 

gigantea) has been identified in the northeast corner of the pasture and as a New 

York State endangered plant species, marked with a stake so it is not mown.76

The southern portion of the Cow Pasture should be rehabilitated and both halves 

maintained to present a consistent agricultural space from the historic period. 

Continuing to work with the Northeast Exotic Plant Management Team, the 

park should develop specific treatments to manage the woody invasive plants in 

the south portion of the pasture. After the invasives have been successfully 

removed, the area should be seeded with a mixture of native warm season grasses 

and forbs. This mixture will be visually compatible with orchard grass, timothy, 

and other common pasture species while introducing native food and habitat 

opportunities for wildlife. 
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53

Although noted as a plant in the pasture during the historic period, daisies should 

not be planted or encouraged. Grazing animals find daisies irritating to walk 

through and less palatable than other species.77 In contemporary animal 

husbandry, daisies are often associated with poor grazing and pasture 

management. Keeping daisies out of the Cow Pasture rehabilitation will avoid 

this negative connotation and aid in conveying the historic intent of this 

agricultural space. After the newly seeded southern half establishes, consistent 

mowing should be scheduled according to the recommendations in task VG-13. 

The existing ironweed should be preserved and mown only if determined to be a 

best management practice by a plant biologist. 

VG-12 Rehabilitate orchard 

When Theodore Roosevelt purchased Sagamore Hill in 1880, an orchard existed 

on the eastern edge of the developed, agricultural land. The orchard was a 

rectangular space bounded by a fence line shared with the Cow Pasture on the 

west and woodlands on the remaining three sides. In April 1916, correspondence 

between Roosevelt and Hicks Nursery regarding spraying the “apple orchard” 

reinforces that this space was actively maintained during Theodore Roosevelt’s 

tenure.78

Photographs and written documentation that describe the scale, arrangement, 

and species composition of the orchard during the Roosevelt period have not 

been discovered. Seven years after Theodore Roosevelt passed away, an aerial 

photograph provides valuable information on the orchard’s scale and 

arrangement. Based on the 1926 aerial, there were fifty-three mature orchard 

trees present east of an access road that paralleled the fence line between the 

orchard and Cow Pasture. Another eight trees were located between the fence 

line and access road. It is difficult to determine if these were fruit trees or other 

deciduous trees that simply reinforced the fence line (Figure 50). 

The grid orientation shown in the 1926 aerial was rotated forty-five degrees from 

cardinal directions and aligned in a southwest to northeast and northwest to 

southeast axes. The grid arrangement averaged 30-feet between trees for the 

column spacing (southwest to northeast) and 33-feet for the row spacing 

(northwest to southeast).79 The geometry and consistency of the grid would have 

been easily recognized in the landscape, however, the trees recorded in 1926 did 

not form a large, rectangular block as depicted in the 1963 Historical Base Map

(Figure 51). 

When the Old Orchard home was completed in 1938, the buildings and 

circulation system were not aligned parallel and perpendicular to the existing 

orchard. Aerial photographs from 1940 and later show a reduced number of 

trees and a less consistent arrangement resulting from Old Orchard’s 
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54 

construction, loss due to natural factors, and in general, a decline in the intensity 

of agricultural production. In addition to trees being removed for Old Orchard’s 

construction, more trees were lost due to a circa 1940 ice storm (Figure 52). 

Several trees were also added following Old Orchard’s construction and are seen 

in aerial photographs aligned on either side of the entry drive (Figure 53). 

Today, the orchard contains twenty-seven trees in an area north of the Old 

Orchard home and south and west of the Foreman’s Cottage and Garage. The 

orchard is divided into a western and eastern portion by the drive to Old 

Orchard. Sixteen trees, all apple varieties, are located in the large western 

portion. Three of these apples have been recently planted and are small 

compared to surrounding trees (Figure 54). The east side of the drive contains 

eleven trees divided into eight pears, two apples, and one peach tree. Three of 

the pears and the peach tree are recent additions or replacements. The park 

works with a local tree company to regularly prune the trees but even with this 

maintenance, an apple tree dating to the period of significance was recently lost 

due to old age and internal decay (Figure 55). 

The orchard should be rehabilitated to convey the character of a feature in the 

Roosevelts’ working agricultural landscape. A grid arrangement of trees should 

be established north of the Old Orchard home in the two areas separated by the 

estate’s entry drive. Both sides of the entry drive should be planted with a row of 

trees that parallels the drive. The trees should be equidistantly spaced along the 

drive and not aligned with the grid. 

In order to layout the rehabilitation plan, an appropriate starting point, definition 

for the axes, and grid spacing for the new planting is described below and is 

based on historic documents. In addition to aerial photographs, the 1995 

Historic Plant Inventory was reviewed. The inventory recorded forty-nine trees 

in the orchard and recorded their location based on field verification of a plan 

prepared from an aerial survey. When overlaid, trees from the Historic Plant 

Inventory and the aerial photographs are in close proximity, but do not line up. 

Since the aerial photographs have a relatively low resolution and are not georeferenced, the tree locations in the Historic Plant Inventory are used for the 

rehabilitation layout. 

To determine a starting point for the rehabilitation layout, trees most likely 

present during the period of significance were identified from the forty-nine 

recorded in the Historic Plant Inventory (Drawing 11). According to the 

inventory, seven were identified in an age range from 1895–1920 and an additional 

seven were identified in an age range from 1915–1935. Three trees were 

identified in an age range from 1925–1945 along with seven trees in an age range 

from 1935–1955 and a single tree identified in an age range from 1935–1965.80
TREATMENT TASKS

55

The grid layout for the rehabilitation was set using trees with the identification 

numbers 6-1-24, 6-1-26, and 6-1-28 to align the columns and 6-1-20 and 6-1-26 

to align the rows. All four of these trees have an identified age range from 1895–

1920. A 30-foot by 30-foot grid should be used to aid in a consistent layout of the 

orchard and to promote healthy development of the trees. The proposed grid 

will avoid confusion in future orchard maintenance and potential replacements 

and will maintain a geometric form that is an important feature for visitors to 

read in the landscape. With a grid layout established, ten trees from the historic 

period should be preserved, seventeen trees that do not align with the gird should 

be removed, and forty-six new trees should be planted on the proposed 

alignment (Drawings 12–13). 

The forty-six new trees should be grafted on standard size rootstock to match the 

form of the historic orchard.81 Additionally, a contemporary, standard size 

rootstock called NovoleTM should be used because it will naturally repel orchard 

voles and increase the likelihood of successful new tree establishment. The 

varieties for the new orchard trees should be the following: 

• 12 Baldwin apples 

• 10 Roxbury Russett apples 

• 10 Tompkins King apples 

• 10 Winesap apples 

• 4 Seckel pears 

The four apple varieties selected would have been commonly available to 

Theodore Roosevelt during his tenure at Sagamore Hill. In addition, the Historic 

Plant Inventory identified a Baldwin apple in the orchard with an age range from 

1915–1935.82 All four had been in commercial production since 1829 and are 

included in a list with six others that by 1910, accounted for seventy-five percent 

of all commercially grown apples in the United States.83 Similar to the apple 

varieties, Seckel pears appeared in commercial production during the early 

nineteenth century. In order to reduce maintenance requirements, disease 

resistance and low fruit production are desired characteristics of the proposed 

plants. Roxbury Russett is noted for resistance to cedar apple rust, scab, and 

mildew and Tompkins King is noted for lower fruit production. Seckel pears 

exhibit resistance to scab and fireblight. All of the proposed varieties are cited for 

their vigorous growth.84 Although strong growth characteristics do not make the 

varieties immune to disease, they are less susceptible to death or decline from 

scab, rust, and other common apple afflictions. In addition to the new plantings, 

the ten existing trees from the historic period should be propagated and 
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56 

preserved. The longevity of these plants attests to their hardiness and their 

unique characteristics should be maintained.85

As part of the rehabilitation of the orchard, an existing circulation feature should 

be reconfigured, a contemporary fence should be removed, and encroaching 

woody vegetation should be removed along the eastern edge of the orchard. An 

existing stonedust path, installed between 2005 and 2006, connects the visitor 

parking lot with Old Orchard and conflicts with the proposed orchard planting. 

As a component of improving this pedestrian path, the existing portion that 

crosses the orchard should be removed so it does not impede the tree layout. 

After the trees are in place, a new path should be installed that runs in an eastwest direction and connects with the current path at the Cow Pasture. The new 

path should be centered between the trees in the grid and then curve to rejoin the 

existing path (Drawing 13). Further information on improving the pedestrian 

path from the parking lot to Old Orchard is presented under the Circulation 

section of the treatment tasks (CR-8). 

In order to protect an existing leaching system in the eastern half of the orchard, 

the park installed a contemporary split-rail fence paralleling the eastern edge of 

the Old Orchard drive. There is no evidence of a fence within the orchard during 

the period of significance and after the proposed orchard planting has matured, 

the non-historic fence should be removed (Drawing 12). Based on a review of 

historic aerial photographs, the eastern perimeter of the orchard was distinct 

from the woodland vegetation in the outer acreage. The boundary between the 

orchard and the woodlands ran approximately parallel to the fence between the 

orchard and Cow Pasture and created a rectilinear space (see Figure 53). 

Presently, woody vegetation is encroaching into the orchard and obscuring the 

linear definition of the orchard’s eastern perimeter. Existing woody vegetation 

should be removed to reestablish a more linear eastern boundary and this edge 

between the orchard and woodlands should be maintained (Drawing 13). 

Fencing should not be added along the orchard’s eastern boundary and a further 

discussion concerning fencing is presented under the Small-Scale Features 

section of the treatment tasks (SSF-6). 

VG-13 Implement mowing plan to preserve historic landscape character 

Sagamore Hill’s historic core contained several open spaces that functioned as a 

rustic lawn and agricultural fields for pasturing and crop production during the 

Roosevelt tenure. These open spaces were distinct from the surrounding 

woodlands and utilized as part of Sagamore Hill’s daily operation as a working 

farm. In addition to the detailed recommendations presented to enhance the 

areas around the Theodore Roosevelt Home and agricultural spaces, a mowing 

plan should be implemented to preserve historic landscape character. The 

mowing plan should maintain the vigorous growth of grass and forb species and 
TREATMENT TASKS

57

incorporate scheduling to protect wildlife. The park should implement the 

mowing plan after newly seeded areas have established. During the 

establishment of new grass and forb species, the park should follow 

recommendations for mowing and maintenance provided by the seeding 

contractor. 

• Theodore Roosevelt Home 

The lawn immediately surrounding the Theodore Roosevelt Home was 

regularly mown and punctuated by random groupings of deciduous and 

evergreen trees. The lawn should continue to be regularly mown throughout 

the growing season to serve as a uniform ground plane for the trees. The 

lawn should be cut to a height of two to four inches. The area to be regularly 

mown should extend fifty feet from the west facade of the house and include 

a regularly mown area around the Quentin Roosevelt Memorial and flagpole. 

After the non-historic memorial and flagpole are removed and relocated, the 

regularly mown area should be reduced to a distance of thirty-five feet from 

the west facade of the house (see treatment task SSF-1). To the south and the 

east, the regularly mown area is bounded by the Macadam Road. The area 

continues north from the house to the woodlands north of the Pet Cemetery 

(Figure 56). The former Stable and Lodge area, the flower and vegetable 

garden, and the lawn islands in the visitor parking lot should be mown in the 

same manner and on the same schedule as the Theodore Roosevelt Home. A 

new mowing treatment should be determined for the flower and vegetable 

garden after a rehabilitation plan is prepared for the garden based on current 

research materials and upcoming archeological investigations (see treatment 

task VG-14). In order to support park programming needs, the northern 

section of the Southeast Field, east of the Pump House and Windmill, and an 

area around the Old Orchard home, Foreman’s Cottage, and Garage should 

be mown in the same manner and on the same schedule as the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home. 

• West Lawn 

During the historic period, an approximately five-acre open space sloped 

gently down from the high point west of the house and met woodlands along 

the western property line. In contrast to regularly mown lawn immediately 

surrounding the home, the area to the west was infrequently cut and due to 

this practice can be described as rustic lawn. The area maintained as rustic 

lawn also featured oxeye daisies as the dominant flowering plant and today is 

referred to as the West Lawn (see Figure 45). 

To maintain the appearance of a rough or rustic lawn and perpetuate the 

oxeye daisies, the West Lawn should not be mown from late March through 

July. The grasses, forbs, and daisies should be allowed to grow through July 
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58 

and the first mowing to a height of eight inches should occur in early August. 

This schedule will protect reptiles and birds and allow the oxeye daisies to 

develop and disperse seeds. For the remainder of the growing season, the 

West Lawn should be mown once a month to a height of eight inches that 

maintains the rustic appearance. The last cut will likely be in late September 

or early October, but could be as late as November depending on the 

weather. Alternatively, if the last cut to a height of eight inches is missed in 

the fall, it may be carried out in early March. 

The eastern boundary of the West Lawn mowing area begins fifty feet from 

the west facade of the Theodore Roosevelt Home and is immediately west of 

the Quentin Roosevelt Memorial and flagpole. After the non-historic 

memorial and flagpole are removed and relocated, the West Lawn mowing 

area should increase so that the boundary is thirty-five feet from the west 

facade of the house. 

• Agricultural Fields and Cow Pasture 

During the historic period, the agricultural fields and Cow Pasture served as 

open areas for crop production such as corn as well as hay fields and 

pasturing lands. For hay fields and pastures, the objective in selecting 

mowing and grazing times is to balance the quantity of hay with the quality of 

available protein in the hay. Allowing a field to grow past a certain point 

increases the quantity of hay, but reduces the quality (Figure 57).86

In order to create a compatible appearance with the historic agricultural use, 

Sagamore Hill’s fields and pasture should be mown once during the growing 

season.87 Similar to the West Lawn, the agricultural fields and Cow Pasture 

should not be mown between late March and July. The edges of pedestrian 

routes, particularly the path to Old Orchard, should have a four to six foot 

swath mown to a height of two to four inches and maintained at that height 

throughout the growing season. The exact width of the swath should match 

the width of a mower deck and be accomplished in a single pass. Mowing 

the fields to a height of eight inches should occur in late August or early 

September. Delaying mowing until after August 15 avoids the nesting season 

for grassland birds.88 To avoid injuring turtles, mowing should occur during 

the hottest part of the day when turtles are more likely to leave fields for the 

edges of woodlands. In addition, mowing should be performed at a slow 

speed and start in the center of a field. Concentric passes should be made 

from the center so the mower arrives at the transition between field and 

wooded area last (Figure 58). The slow speed and inside to outside pattern 

allows time for turtles to react and leave an area to be mown.89
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59

• Orchard 

The agricultural character of the orchard was defined by the regularly spaced 

grid pattern of fruit trees. Rehabilitating that form requires successfully 

maintaining existing trees and introducing new ones. Routine mowing is a 

best management practice that is beneficial to healthy fruit trees and will 

therefore enhance the orchard’s historic appearance. The orchard should be 

mown one to two times per month during the growing season to a height of 

three to five inches. This height will decrease the possibility of vole damage 

to the fruit trees. In addition, the lower height will make it easier to pick up 

fallen apples, branches, and leaves. Removing debris from the ground is an 

important step in reducing the spread of potential pests and diseases in an 

orchard.90

VG-14 Rehabilitate portion of the flower and vegetable garden 

During the Roosevelt family’s tenure at Sagamore Hill, a large flower and 

vegetable garden was located west of the Stable and Lodge and north of the 

Chicken House. The garden was rectangular in shape and approximately 3.2 

acres in size.91 The entry drive for the current visitor parking lot, constructed in 

1953, bisected the flower and vegetable garden and left a fragmented piece to the 

west and east of the drive. 

A path along the western edge of the garden and a portion of the central path 

currently remain. Bordering the paths, a Kwanzan cherry (Prunus serrulata

‘Kwanzan’) and crabapple (Malus baccata) are present and were identified in the 

Historic Plant Inventory as dating to the period of significance.92 The western 

portion also contains the Lincoln boxwood, established from cuttings Theodore 

Roosevelt took at the Lincoln Birthplace, and other shrubs along the fence line. 

The section of the flower and vegetable garden east of the entry drive is bounded 

by the visitor parking lot on the south, the access road to Old Orchard on the 

north, and a narrow pedestrian path on the east. Planted in conjunction with 

construction of the parking lot, ornamental cherry trees further define the 

boundary between the flower and vegetable garden and the parking lot to the 

south. Vegetation in the eastern section of the flower and vegetable garden 

consists of an assortment of fruit trees and a large eastern red cedar (Juniperus 

virginiana) emerging from a maintained lawn ground plane. 

To help interpret Sagamore Hill as a family home and working agriculture 

landscape, the park should rehabilitate of the flower and vegetable garden. Paths, 

beds, plant material, fence lines, and structures should all be incorporated in a 

comprehensive rehabilitation plan. In addition to photographs and other 

documentary evidence, an archeological survey should be conducted to identify 

the original foot print of the garden, garden paths, and fence lines.93 The existing 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

60 

Kwanzan cherry (Prunus serrulata ‘Kwanzan’), crabapple (Malus baccata), three 

quinces (Cydonia oblonga), and an apple (Malus pumila) are identified in the 

Historic Plant Inventory as dating to the period of significance and should be 

preserved (Figure 59).94

VG-15 Remove non-historic plant material at the visitor contact station and 

replace red maple in the chicken yard 

Located south of the Chicken House and along the western edge of the North 

Field, the Roosevelt family and staff maintained a chicken yard from circa 1900 

until the end of the period of significance. The chicken yard was defined by a 

fenced area approximately thirty by fifty feet and was surrounded by cultivated 

vegetation in the North and Southeast Fields that was primarily grown for 

grazing and hay production. 

Based on a review of several historic aerial photographs, two vegetation features 

associated with the chicken yard can be discerned at the end of the period of 

significance. First, trees were located west of the chicken yard and south of the 

Chicken House along a fence line that separated the Southeast and North Fields. 

This unknown number of trees extended for approximately seventy-five feet 

south along the fence. Second, a tree was located within the fenced chicken yard 

(see Figure 46). 

In 1956, the Theodore Roosevelt Association constructed a visitor contact station 

on the western edge of the North Field and by that time had removed the chicken 

yard. The L-shaped contact station was not oriented parallel or perpendicular to 

the Chicken House but rotated so the vertex of the building’s two legs faced the 

parking lot and could receive visitors walking from their cars toward the 

Theodore Roosevelt Home. In front of the contact station’s northeast and 

southeast facades, the Theodore Roosevelt Association planted a variety of 

ornamental shrubs. 

Presently, a total of five trees are located along the west side of the fence 

separating the Southeast and North Field. The trees consist of a mixture of 

maple varieties that include two Norway maples (Acer platanoides), two sugar 

maples (Acer saccharum), and a sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus). In 2005, 

the park removed a large red maple (Acer rubrum) from a picnic area located to 

the west of visitor contact station. The shrubs and ornamental plantings along 

the visitor contact station’s foundations are extant. 

In conjunction with removing the 1956 visitor contact station, the park should 

enhance the agricultural character of the chicken yard, fields, and farm 

outbuildings by removing non-historic, ornamental plantings along the visitor 

contact station’s foundations and nearby walkways. Additionally, a Norway 

maple (Acer platanoides) and a sycamore maple (Acer pseudoplatanus) paralleling 
TREATMENT TASKS

61

the fence between the Southeast and North Fields should be removed along with 

a contemporary crabapple (Malus ‘Adams’). These three trees combine to form 

an overhead canopy that does not appear on either the 1940 or the 1950 aerial 

photograph. The remaining trees along the fence line should be preserved and if 

removed due to damage, disease, or decline, replaced in kind with commercial 

nursery stock. Finally, a red maple, identified in the 1995 Historic Plant 

Inventory as dating to pre-1895, should be replaced in kind in the chicken yard. 

The red maple should be planted centered on the east section of fence and four 

feet into the chicken yard (see Figure 14). A plethora of red maple cultivars are 

available in the commercial nursery trade and if possible the straight species Acer 

rubrum should be selected. Red maple cultivars with incompatible 

characteristics such as fastigiate or columnar growth should be avoided. 

VG-16 Replace two black locust at eastern end of parking lot 

In his autobiography, Roosevelt described the bloom sequence of trees and 

flowers at Sagamore Hill and noted, “...and so flowers follow flowers until the 

springtime splendor closes with the laurel and the evanescent, honey-sweet 

locust bloom.”95 Both honey locust (Gleditsia triacanthos) and black locust 

(Robinia pseudoacacia) have common names that can be easily connected to the 

tree Roosevelt observed. Comparing the two species, the black locust is noted 

for its extremely fragrant flowers and was likely the tree Roosevelt described. 

During the Roosevelt years at Sagamore Hill, two black locusts were present in 

the northeast corner of the North Field. The trees were located immediately 

west of a fence line that separated the North Field and Cow Pasture. In the 1995 

Historic Plant Inventory, both trees were identified in an age range from before 

1895 and may have been present in 1880 when Roosevelt purchased the property. 

The majority of the present North Field is consumed by the visitor parking lot, 

however, there is still space between the eastern edge of the lot and the existing 

trees along the fence line. Due to declining health and potential safety issues, the 

two black locusts were recently removed. Oaks, a maple, and a hickory are still 

present along the fence line and provide additional separation between the North 

Field and Pasture. 

The two black locusts should be replaced in kind. The new black locusts will 

reinforce the spatial organization of the historic agricultural landscape. It will be 

difficult to find black locusts commercially available in the nursery trade and 

cultivars with incompatible characteristics like unusual foliage effects or flower 

colors should be avoided.96 Replacement trees may be obtained by identifying 

black locusts in other locations at Sagamore Hill, particularly areas like Cold 

Spring Harbor beach where seedlings have established, and transplanting those 

trees to the historic location. An existing red oak (Quercus rubra) that does not 
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62 

date to the period of significance should be removed to reduce competition for 

one of the locusts (Drawing 7). 

VG-17 Remove yew at Woodpile Pond 

Northeast of the flower and vegetable garden, a triangular portion of the 

Sagamore Hill property slopes down to a kettle pond called Woodpile Pond. 

Theodore Roosevelt Jr. recalled the pond as a location to find countless turtles 

and “a noisome bit of stagnant water and black mud into which the pig-sty 

drained.”97 During the period of significance, Woodpile Pond was a natural 

feature in close proximity to components of the Roosevelt’s working agricultural 

landscape. The pond was not screened by or embellished with vegetation of any 

kind. 

Today, only the foundation of the pig sty remains and the pond’s water level is 

maintained by precipitation and natural drainage. Additional water comes from 

the visitor parking lot and is collected in a vegetated swale at the lot’s eastern end. 

The swale changes to stone rip-rap as it descends grade and approaches 

Woodpile Pond. On the south side of the pond, a large yew (Taxus sp.) blocks 

any views from the visitor lot. As part of the park’s larger efforts to remove 

ornamental, non-historic shrubs, the yew should be removed from the south side 

of Woodpile Pond (Drawing 7). 

VG-18 Replace Cousin’s Beech in historic location 

The Cousin’s Beech was not a lone specimen stationed on a grassy plinth, but a 

remarkably large beech in the wooded outer acreage of Sagamore Hill. The 

orchard marked the eastern edge of the property’s historic core and as one 

continued east, the ground began a steep descent toward Cold Spring Harbor. A 

woodland area occupied the land between the orchard and maritime complex at 

Cold Spring Harbor and the Cousin’s Beech was situated among a mixture of 

oaks, tulip poplars, and understory plant material in the northwest corner of the 

woodland. The beech was near the northern property line of Sagamore Hill that 

divided Theodore Roosevelt’s land from a large parcel owned by his cousin, 

William Emlen Roosevelt. According to an interview with Roosevelt’s daughter, 

Ethel Roosevelt Derby, Emlen’s children named the tree the “Cousin’s Beech.”98 

On the 1995 Historic Plant Inventory plan, the Cousin’s Beech is shown about 

275 feet east of the Old Orchard garage. Its size is listed on the plan as 57 inches 

diameter at breast height, which is comparable in size to the purple beech near 

the library. A wind storm during the winter of 2005–2006 toppled the Cousin’s 

Beech. A clone of the original tree was presented to the park by the Bartlett Tree 

Experts and planted near the fence line between the North and South Fields.99 
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63

Protected by a metal wire enclosure, the Cousin’s Beech is approximately 

eighteen inches tall (Figure 60). 

The metal enclosure should continue to guard the Cousin’s Beech and extra 

protective measures should be implemented when rehabilitation work 

commences on the North and South Fields. The existing tree should be 

vegetatively propagated so reserve propagules can be grown and planted in case 

of disease or damage. The new propagules should be container grown to make 

the transplanting process easier and lessen the shock to the young tree. 

After reserve propagules have been established, the Cousin’s Beech should be 

transplanted to its historic location in the woodlands. Transplanting should be 

done while the tree is relatively small and has a correspondingly smaller root 

system to move. The surrounding canopy at the historic location should be 

thinned to allow adequate light and the beech should be trained to develop a 

strong, central leader. 

VG-19 Manage invasive species at Lower Lake (Heron Pond) 

On a circa 1880 sketch of Sagamore Hill, Theodore Roosevelt recorded 

agricultural uses, vegetation types, and several natural features. One of the 

natural features identified was a pond in the southeast portion of the property. 

No further description of the pond is provided on the sketch (see Figure 43). 

Based on 1963 National Park Service interviews with Roosevelt’s surviving 

children, the pond was called Lower Lake during the period of significance. In 

another interview with National Park Service staff, Robert Gillespie, son of one 

of Sagamore Hill’s caretakers, identified the water body as Heron Pond.100 Both 

names have been used in recent publications to describe the feature and no 

evidence has emerged to indicate if one of the names was the preferred name. 

For consistency, this report uses Lower Lake to identify this feature. In the 1963 

interviews, Roosevelt’s children provided detailed information on vegetation 

features located throughout Sagamore Hill. They did not indicate any vegetation 

features associated with the Lower Lake and arguably this water feature 

remained an undisturbed natural resource in the woodlands during the Roosevelt 

tenure. 

Lower Lake is located approximately 900 feet west from the Cold Spring Harbor 

shoreline and within the eastern woodlands that comprised a part of the outer 

acreage. The water body is a spring-fed vernal pool with fluctuating water levels 

that are at their highest in early spring and almost dry out during the hottest 

weeks of summer. At high water level, the roughly oval-shaped water body is 

approximately 130 feet long by 50 feet wide and is an important resource for 

amphibian, reptile, and insect species that require multiple habitats. The area 

surrounding the lake supports understory shrub species, like winterberry (Ilex 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

64 

verticillata), that are not found in other locations in the woodlands. In addition, 

invasive non-native species like multiflora rose (Rosa multiflora) and Asiatic 

bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) are present in the vicinity of the lake as is a 

contiguous swath of vinca (Vinca minor) along the lake’s western edge (Figure 

61). 

In order to encourage plant species diversity and the natural hydraulic function 

of the water body, as it was during the period of significance, invasive non-native 

species should be managed at Lower Lake. The park should continue to work 

with the Northeast Exotic Plant Management Team on specific treatments for 

individual invasive species. 

VG-20 Remove Phragmites (Phragmites sp.) along Eel Creek and creek tidal marsh 

Located between the woodlands to the west and Cold Spring Harbor beach to 

the east, the Roosevelt property contained a tidal marsh drained by a water 

course known as Eel Creek. Eel Creek roughly paralleled the shoreline of the 

harbor and meandered through the low area with fluctuating water levels linked 

to the Cold Spring Harbor and Long Island Sound tides. With the exception of 

constructing a wooden bridge to cross the creek and marsh, the Roosevelts did 

not develop the area. 

Today, Eel Creek and the tidal marsh provide a unique habitat between the beach 

and woodlands. The creek potentially serves as a nursery for marine and 

estuarine fish species and the tidal marsh provides a feeding area for wading birds 

like heron and egrets, and habitat and food opportunities for migratory birds.101 

The southern portion of the creek and marsh area is currently dominated by a 

stand of phragmites (Phragmites sp.) (Figure 62). The invasive qualities of 

phragmites can increase sedimentation in the marsh, alter the flow of the creek, 

and reduce plant species diversity that contributes to a variety of wildlife. In 

addition to impacting natural resources, the phragmites blocks views across Cold 

Spring Harbor and is inconsistent with the low-growing grasses that occupied the 

area during the Roosevelt tenure (Figure 63). 

The phragmites along Eel Creek and the tidal marsh should be removed. Best 

management practices for removing the phragmites are being developed with the 

Northeast Exotic Plant Management Team. 

VG-21 Manage invasive species at Cold Spring Harbor beach 

East of Eel Creek and the tidal marsh, the Roosevelt property ended at 

approximately 800 feet of beach frontage along Cold Spring Harbor. During the 

period of significance, Roosevelt and his family used his area for recreation and 

constructed bathhouses and a boathouse on the beach to support their activities 

(Figure 64). Historic photographs indicate that vegetation on the beach consisted 
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65

of predominantly low-growing species adapted to the sandy soils. In contrast to 

the woodlands just west of the beach and tidal marsh, the beach was historically 

an open area. 

Presently, the beach is still dominated by low-growing grass and shrub species 

including American beachgrass (Ammophila breviligulata) and northern bayberry 

(Myrica pensylvanica). The area is also interspersed with black locust (Robinia 

pseudoacacia) and this is the only deciduous tree species present. 

In order to maintain the historic open character of the beach, the park should 

manage woody invasive species like black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia). In 

addition, herbaceous invasive species should also be monitored and managed so 

the plant composition along the beach is not detrimentally altered. A 2005 

natural resources inventory identified the beach as part of a larger area along 

Cold Spring Harbor and Oyster Bay that supports one of the larger diamondback 

terrapin (Malaclemys terrapin) populations in New York.102 Changes to the plant 

composition along the beach can have affects on food resources and habitat. 

The park should continue working with the Northeast Exotic Plant Management 

Team on developing and implementing best management practices for invasive 

species at the beach. 

CIRCULATION 

During the Roosevelt tenure at Sagamore Hill, circulation features were 

hierarchically organized according to transportation mode and use. Primary 

vehicular circulation consisted of the route to the Theodore Roosevelt Home. 

Secondary circulation features provided routes used in the daily operation of the 

farm and pedestrian routes and trails formed a third level of circulation that 

connected locations within the site. Both vehicular and pedestrian routes were 

made of compacted soil until the Macadam Road was completed in 1912. The 

Theodore Roosevelt Association altered the circulation within the historic core 

when the site opened as a public park in 1953. They constructed a new vehicular 

route and consequently, no longer maintained historic routes which today appear 

as traces in the landscape. The Theodore Roosevelt Association and later the 

National Park Service installed new surface treatments that offered a durable 

finish for increased traffic, but presented a more formal appearance than the 

historic materials. The following treatment tasks will address replacing in kind 

deteriorated features, an accessible route from the visitor parking lot to the 

Theodore Roosevelt Home, and surface treatments for features that are 

compatible with historic materials. 
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CR-1 Replace brick paving in kind at porte-cochere 

Until completion of the Macadam Road in 1912, compacted soil was the 

surfacing for vehicular circulation routes at Sagamore Hill. A noted exception 

was a square area of paving under the porte-cochere where the Roosevelt family 

and guests would have stopped and departed their vehicles to enter the main 

house. A 1901 photograph shows that under the porte-cochere, bricks were laid 

on edge in a herringbone pattern (Figure 65). In addition to the photograph, a 

written account of installing the Macadam Road and paving at the circular drive 

noted that Roosevelt got angry, “...when the steam roller had rolled over and 

broken a few bricks in the pavement under the porte-cochere of his house.”103

Information has not been discovered on the maintenance of the brick paving 

during the Roosevelt tenure or subsequent periods. At an undetermined time, 

the brick paving was paved over with asphalt. During repaving work in 2008, 

park staff requested that the paving contractor carefully remove asphalt to see if 

the brick was present beneath it. Three to four inches of asphalt were removed 

under the supervision of park curatorial staff and a regional archeologist and the 

brick paving was exposed. 

The exposed brick paving is laid on edge in a herringbone pattern. Where the 

paving meets the east and west sides of the circular drive and along the portecochere stone wall, a border course is set with brick on edge (Figure 66). The 

condition of individual bricks varies with some in good condition and others 

brittle, crumbling, and in poor condition. The overall surface of the bricks is 

uneven and provides an inconsistent surface for visitors entering the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home. Furthermore, at approximately three inches lower than the 

surrounding asphalt, the transition to the brick paving represents a potential 

tripping hazard. 

In order to retain a unique paving feature from the Roosevelt tenure and provide 

for a safe visitor experience, the brick paving should be replaced in kind. The 

existing brick should be matched in size, color, texture, and finish. A 

representative sample of the existing brick should be removed and preserved as 

part of the park’s museum collections. Following these steps, the remaining brick 

should be removed and an aggregate base and setting bed added to eliminate the 

elevation difference between the new brick paving and adjacent asphalt. The 

new brick should be installed on edge for the border courses and herringbone 

field (Figure 67). 

CR-2 Construct accessible route from the parking lot to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home 

Constructed in 1885, the Theodore Roosevelt Home does not have an entrance 

that provides universal access for all visitors. In fact, all of the entrances 
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67

negotiate approximately three feet of elevation change with a combination of 

steps and landings. In order to provide a positive visitor experience, the 

approved General Management Plan lists a management objective that the 

structures, grounds, and facilities at Sagamore Hill will be universally accessible 

to the greatest degree possible.104

At the Theodore Roosevelt Home, design professionals and resource 

management advisors determined that universal access could be provided at the 

northwest corner of the veranda with minimal impacts to the architectural fabric, 

views, and cultural landscape. An accessible pedestrian route needs to be 

determined to connect visitors from their major arrival point in the parking lot to 

the northwest corner of the veranda. The following information on an accessible 

route is based on existing topography generated from a 1992 aerial survey. This 

survey does not include grades in a ten to fifteen foot area around the home. In 

order to refine this discussion and improve the efficiency of designing, 

approving, and constructing an accessible route, Sagamore Hill needs an accurate 

ground survey by a licensed land surveyor. 

Two existing asphalt walks lead west from the parking lot toward the home. 

South of the visitor contact station, one walk cuts across the Southeast Field and 

merges with the Macadam Road near the circular drive. As this walk approaches 

the Macadam Road, existing slopes range from six to ten percent. The steep 

pitch of the existing walk would require the installation of handrails to provide 

assistance for all visitors. Alternatively, the walk could be regraded by adding 

large quantities of fill material to reduce the steep slopes. Both installing 

handrails and adding fill material would alter a portion of the Southeast Field and 

circular drive and negatively impact the character of the historic agricultural 

landscape. 

The second walk, located north of the Farm Shed, maintains a one and a half 

percent slope from the parking lot to its junction with the Macadam Road. Due 

to its favorable grades, the northern asphalt walk should be the starting point for 

an accessible route. As this asphalt walk approaches the south side of the Stable 

and Lodge site, a new walk should be installed that follows an existing V-shaped 

privet hedge and proceeds northwest to connect with the Macadam Road. A 

circulation feature south the Stable and Lodge site is consist with photographs 

from the period of significance showing an angled path along the south facade 

(Figure 68). 

Visitors would next cross the Macadam Road and continue on a new walk west 

toward the Pet Cemetery path. A metal grate should be installed over an existing 

concrete gutter on the west side of the Macadam Road. The gutter was installed 

as part of paving and drainage improvements in 1912 and placing a grate over the 

gutter will minimize impacts and allow for removal in the future if deemed 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

68 

necessary. The new accessible walk should continue west of the Macadam Road 

and gently curve to avoid trees that date to the Roosevelt tenure. The layout of 

the walk should remain outside the drip line of tree canopies to minimize damage 

to their root systems (Figure 69). The new walk will terminate at the Pet 

Cemetery path and along its proposed length, the average slope will be three and 

a half percent. 

From the new accessible walk, visitors should proceed south on the Pet Cemetery 

path toward the veranda. The existing grade along the Pet Cemetery path is 

slightly over three percent and it is surfaced with crushed stone. At the North 

Room, a bluestone walkway edged with brick meets the crushed stone and 

continues south to the veranda. As a component of constructing an accessible 

route, the bluestone and crushed stone should be removed and a consistent 

surface treatment installed that is compatible with the historic, compacted earth 

surfaces present during the period of significance. More information is provided 

on soil polymers and chipseal surfacing in subsequent circulation treatment tasks. 

CR-3 Rehabilitate circulation at the Ice House 

Shortly after the completion of the Theodore Roosevelt Home in 1885, the Ice 

House was constructed about twenty feet east of the kitchen wing. Ice would be 

collected or cut from nearby ponds and placed in a below ground storage area 

enclosed by a brick, octagonal structure (see Figure 40). The interior of the Ice 

House was later converted to hold two storage tanks that provided a reserve 

water supply. During the Theodore Roosevelt Association stewardship of the 

property, the Ice House was renovated to provide public restrooms. 

To accommodate a new function for the Ice House during the Theodore 

Roosevelt Association stewardship, circulation patterns were altered and new 

brick paving was introduced (see Figure 41). The restrooms were closed in 1984 

with the completion of new restrooms in the visitor contact station and the 

interior of the Ice House has been used for storage since that time.105 However, 

the changes to the landscape implemented during the Theodore Roosevelt 

Association stewardship remain largely intact around the Ice House and create a 

more formal setting for a utilitarian outbuilding. 

Visitors access the Ice House along a four-foot wide brick walkway that extends 

parallel from the east facade of the home and connects the circular drive to the 

south with the oval drive to the north. About 50-feet from the circular drive, a 

fork branches off from the main walkway to the northeast and leads to the Ice 

House. At the fork, a wayside is placed to offer visitors more information on the 

Ice House. A sixteen-inch high metal post-and-chain fence flank both the 

walkway and the fork to the Ice House. 
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Circulation at the Ice House should be rehabilitated to present the character of 

the historic compacted soil paths and remove more formal elements added in the 

1950s. The brick paving and post-and-chain fence should be removed since both 

of these elements are non-historic. An elevated concrete landing and metal 

guardrail on the north side of the Ice House should also be removed. After the 

removals, the width of the walk should be reduced to three feet in order to 

appear more like a path than a major route linking to the Ice House. The 

alignment of the path should be changed slightly to meet the circular drive at a 

right angle and the surface should be finished with crushed stone matching the 

finish of the Pet Cemetery path. On the north side of the Ice House, the crushed 

stone should be installed to match the surrounding, existing grades. Installing the 

crushed stone in this manner eliminates the need for a guardrail that was 

necessitated by the elevated concrete landing. Rehabilitation of the circulation at 

the Ice House should take place after exterior repairs to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home have been completed (see Figure 42). 

CR-4 Rehabilitate Service Road trace surface treatment 

On a circa 1880 sketch of the property, Theodore Roosevelt recorded a road in 

northwest corner of Sagamore Hill (see Figure 43). As the site was developed 

with the construction of the home, Stable and Lodge, and other outbuildings, the 

road became a Service Road that provided access to the working agricultural 

areas as opposed to the main entry route to the home. The Service Road had a 

compacted soil surface and roughly paralleled the western property boundary 

before turning east in the direction of the Stable and Lodge.106

In 1953, as part of the Theodore Roosevelt Association plan to open Sagamore 

Hill to the public, a new county road was constructed primarily over the historic 

route of the Service Road.107 A portion of the Service Road, north of the Pet 

Cemetery and heading in a west to east direction, remained as a trace (see Figure 

44). The trace is still visible today with the former roadbed at a lower elevation 

than the surrounding grades. The trace is maintained free of vegetation and is 

currently surfaced with a thick layer of wood chips. 

The Service Road trace surface should be rehabilitated with a finish that is more 

compatible with the historic, compacted earth surface. The wood chips should 

be removed and the existing soil should be compacted and have a soil polymer 

added to create a more durable surface. With either the new surface treatment or 

the current wood chips, the Service Road should be incorporated as part of a trail 

that circles the western end of the property. The trail will be discussed further 

under task CR-7. 
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CR-5 Rehabilitate Carriage Road surface treatment 

Prior to 1912, family and visitors entered Sagamore Hill and arrived at the home 

via the Carriage Road. After traveling along a road that roughly paralleled the 

shoreline of Oyster Bay, family and guests turned onto the Carriage Road in the 

wooded, southwest corner of the property. The road was variable in width and 

had a compacted soil surface. From the southwest corner, the road wound up a 

steep slope. Writing about the ascent one visitor noted, “...it becomes so steep 

that the hill must be traversed almost horizontally.”108 As the road turned out of 

the last switchback, it emerged from the woodlands and offered travelers a view 

of the south facade of the home (Figure 70).109 The Carriage Road continued to 

the northeast and then turned north to be perpendicular with the south facade. 

Approximately 110 feet from the house, the road terminated in a circular drive 

that looped under the porte-cochere. By 1905, an extension was constructed 

from the east end of the circular drive that wrapped around the east facade of the 

house, headed past the Windmill and Pump House, and continued north to 

connect with the Service Road (Figure 71). 

As automobiles become more prevalent, Roosevelt addressed the tight 

switchbacks of the Carriage Road with construction of a new road in 1912.110 

The new entry route, referred to as the Macadam Road because of its surface, 

avoided the property’s steep topography and the lower portion of the Carriage 

Road was abandoned. This piece of the Carriage Road is visible today as a trace 

and winds through a heavily wooded area (Figure 72). The Carriage Road bed is 

maintained free of trees and is currently surfaced with a layer of wood chips. 

The Carriage Road should be rehabilitated to be more compatible with the 

historic, compacted earth surface. The trace should be maintained free of 

vegetation and the crown increased so that the feature is more visible in the 

landscape. Another option is to add a soil polymer to the existing soil. With this 

application, the polymer fills void spaces in the soil structure and creates a hard, 

durable surface. 

CR-6 Rehabilitate Macadam Road surface treatment 

After completion in 1912, the Macadam Road replaced the Carriage Road as the 

primary route to Sagamore Hill. Travelers heading north along the shoreline of 

Oyster Bay arrived at the Macadam Road before the Carriage Road and turned 

onto property owned by Roosevelt’s cousin, William Emlen Roosevelt.111 

Continuing on the cousin’s property for approximately 500 feet, the Macadam 

Road avoided steep topography in the southwest corner of Sagamore Hill. Past 

the sharp topography changes, the Macadam Road turned northeast to cross into 

Sagamore Hill and then following the same route as the Carriage Road, 

proceeded on a moderate climb up to the main house. A fork off of the Macadam 

Road entered the circular drive on the southeast and the road continued north 
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71

past the Windmill and Pump House to the Stable and Lodge. Immediately north 

of the Stable and Lodge, the Macadam Road transitioned to the compacted soil 

Service Road (see Figure 72). The Macadam Road, the only paved surfaced 

during the Roosevelt tenure, remained the primary entry route until 1953 when 

Sagamore Hill Road was completed. No longer in use, the southern portion of 

the Macadam Road’s paving deteriorated and numerous fissures and breaks 

appeared. 

In 2008, the park resurfaced the Macadam Road and circular drive through a 

Federal Highway Administration project (Figure 73). The park specified an 

asphalt mix for the project that used larger stone aggregate since selecting 

macadam or other historically compatible paving materials were not options 

under Federal Highway Administration parameters. The resurfacing project 

corrected the poor condition of the Macadam Road and the surface is presently 

in excellent condition. 

The smooth finish of the Macadam Road’s contemporary asphalt does not match 

the rougher texture of the historic paving and the surface should be rehabilitated 

in one of two ways. First, an adhesive layer could be skimmed over the existing 

asphalt and a chipseal surfacing applied. The stone size used in chipseal is 

compatible with the rougher texture of historic macadam and light gray stone 

mixtures should be selected for compatible color (Figure 74). As an alternative, 

the Macadam Road could be resurfaced with an open graded friction course. 

Open graded friction course describes an asphalt wearing surface that is rougher, 

contains void space, and is more compatible with the appearance of historic 

macadam. Resurfacing could occur when the current paving has exceeded its 

lifespan or sooner if the current paving is planed down. For any surfacing 

options, the finish paving grades should match the historic crown of the 

Macadam Road and should in no way extend into or cover the concrete gutters 

(see Figure 19). 

CR-7 Designate new loop trail 

The Roosevelts’ activities at Sagamore Hill included extensive use of the 

landscape for farming, entertainment, and recreation. Located near the 

southwest corner of the property, a compacted soil Tennis Court provided 

recreation opportunities for the family, but today is seldom visited. The park 

would like to designate a trail that utilizes existing circulation routes and adds 

two new connecting sections to form a loop among sites, including the Tennis 

Court, in the historic core. The route would begin at the front entrance of the 

home and head southwest down the Macadam Road to the intersection with the 

Carriage Road. Turning on to the Carriage Road trace, visitors would proceed 

down the switchbacks to the Tennis Court. From the Tennis Court the trail 

would head north onto the sidewalk just before the Sagamore Hill rock and state 
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72 

historic site marker along Sagamore Hill Road. A new connecting trail would be 

required between the sidewalk and the Service Road trace (Drawing 7). Visitors 

would continue east on the Service Road to the Pet Cemetery and take a new trail 

from the end of the Service Road that connects to the Macadam Road (Drawing 

7). Once on the Macadam Road, visitors could access the Stable and Lodge site 

and head south to return to the main house. 

The two new connecting trails should be six feet wide to allow users traveling in 

opposite directions to comfortably pass. The proposed six-foot trail width is 

narrower than the Service Road trace and will help distinguish the connecting 

trails as contemporary additions. Surfacing for the trails should be compatible 

with the compacted soil seen on pedestrian routes at Sagamore Hill during the 

historic period. Since both new trails connect to the Service Road trace, the trail 

surface should match the selected treatment installed on the Service Road. 

Providing a clearly defined loop trail would eliminate the current social trail 

across the West Lawn. Visitors presently walk down the Macadam Road and 

Carriage Road to the Tennis Court. Rather than retrace their route, they walk 

straight up the West Lawn. A loop trail that extends north from the Tennis Court 

and then continues east would incorporate additional site features and could 

include interpretive waysides (Drawing 7).112

CR-8 Improve pedestrian access to Old Orchard 

The main house of Old Orchard currently serves as a museum for the park and 

therefore, visitor access is extremely important. Prior to 2000, visitors walked to 

Old Orchard along a paved utility road from the parking lot. While traffic on this 

road is limited to park, staff, handicap visitor, and delivery vehicles, this situation 

did not provide the best solution in terms of visitor safety. Treatment 

recommendations from Volume 2 called for the addition of a designated 

pedestrian path to provide access to Old Orchard. The path was intended to 

satisfy safety issues but at the same time, not detract from Sagamore Hill’s historic 

character. The least intrusive option advocated by the Volume 2 report was to 

construct a path within the existing Cow Pasture, parallel to the road, but on the 

pasture side of the fence. The report specified that the path could be constructed 

with crushed stone, asphalt, or simply denoted in the existing pasture by mowing 

a swath at a consistently lower height.113

Between 2005 and 2006, the park installed a pedestrian path that cut directly 

across the middle of the Cow Pasture in order to shorten the distance between 

the parking lot and Old Orchard. As a component of repaving the visitor parking 

lot in 2007, an additional path was constructed parallel to the southern edge of 

the lot that connected to the path crossing the Cow Pasture. Both paths were 

constructed with stonedust bordered on either side by steel edging (Figure 75). 

With sufficient compaction, the stonedust surfacing has become nearly 
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73

impervious. Initially water drained from the parking lot down the path, creating 

a washed out gully. However, the park added a trench drain and berm and 

redirected the water away from the path. The surface of the path now needs 

additional material to reestablish a crown above the top of the steel edging. This 

will prevent the build up of water and ice on the path. 

In order to improve the condition of the path, material should be added to create 

a cross slope from north to south or from a raised centerline to either side. In 

either instance, the entire crown of the path should be above the top of the steel 

edging (Figure 76). As this is a non-historic path, the surface treatment should 

harmonize with the Cow Pasture and orchard, and also be compatible with other 

pedestrian paths. 

VIEWS AND VISTAS 

During the historic period many scenic views existed, both within the site and of 

the surrounding landscape. They included views from the main house across the 

farm, views of the house from the Carriage Road, and various views from 

Sagamore Hill to the water bodies surrounding Cove Neck. Views have changed 

substantially due to successional woodland growth in the former agricultural 

spaces and woodland growth surrounding the property.114 Historically 

significant views are addressed in the following treatment tasks with references to 

vegetation treatment and management discussed in the Vegetation section. 

VV-1 Restore and maintain views from the Carriage Road and veranda 

Historically, the most prominent views on the site were those of the main house 

from the Carriage Road across the West Lawn and from the veranda of the main 

house looking back out over the West Lawn (Figure 77). The view from the 

Carriage Road to the main house has changed drastically. Once the initial view or 

image of Sagamore Hill for anyone approaching, it is now obscured by vegetation 

growth. In the past decade, the view from the veranda has been enhanced by the 

removal of woody vegetation from the West Lawn. A wooded area is still present 

in the southern portion of the West Lawn and this vegetation limits the full 

expanse of the historic view. Both views should be restored by clearing invasive 

vegetation on the West Lawn and removing non-historic woodland growth. This 

clearing is specifically detailed in the Vegetation section of this document as 

treatment for the West Lawn (VG-9). No additional vegetative growth or future 

development should be allowed to block these views.115

VV-2 Restore and maintain views associated with historic agricultural spaces 

During the historic period, the open character of the fields and pasture resulted 

in unobstructed views within these spaces. Additionally, views across multiple 
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74 

fields existed where wood fencing defined the boundaries and the fence height 

and open rail construction did not block views (see Figure 48). 

During the 1950s, successional woody vegetation began to emerge in the 

agricultural spaces. The age and density of the vegetation has increased and 

today, the open character and views associated with the historic agricultural 

spaces has been lost. The park should restore these views through the steps 

outlined in greater detail under the Vegetation section of this report (VG-10 and 

VG-11). After the views are restored, vegetation must be managed to preserve 

the restored views.116

VV-3 Interpret views from the Theodore Roosevelt Home to surrounding water 

bodies 

In addition to views of the Theodore Roosevelt Home and within the property, 

locating the main house on one of the high points on the Cove Neck peninsula 

afforded views to the surrounding water bodies. Visiting Sagamore Hill in 1900, a 

reporter for the New York Tribune described, “...a beautiful view in every 

direction, especially to the north and east where the waters of the Sound and 

Cold Spring Harbor are seen.”117 In his autobiography, Roosevelt wrote of a view 

to the west when he recounted, “On the evening of the first day I sat in my 

rocking-chair on the broad verandah, looking across the Sound towards the glory 

of the sunset...”118

The views from the house to the surrounding water bodies are currently blocked 

by woodland growth. However, the woodlands blocking these views are mostly 

off-site and are out of park control. The surrounding area, once agricultural land, 

is now residential. No longer farmed, the open space not maintained as lawn has 

been allowed to become wooded and other areas may have been intentionally 

planted.119 Views to surrounding water bodies were a character defining feature 

during the historic period. The park should interpret with historic photographs 

how the open landscape contributed to views of water during Roosevelt’s tenure. 

SMALL-SCALE FEATURES 

During the Roosevelt tenure at Sagamore Hill, small-scale features included 

fences, stone markers, benches, and other features associated with the active use 

of the property. Fences made up the greatest quantity of small-scale features and 

defined the boundaries of the agricultural spaces. Since opening as a public park, 

the historic fence lines have been obscured and are deteriorating due to 

successional woodland growth. Non-historic features have been added that 

create a commemorative feeling for the historic working farm property. 

Ornamental features from the historic period have been removed or relocated 

and features associated with the family’s recreation may only exist as 

archeological evidence. The following treatment tasks will address removing and 
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relocating non-historic features to enhance landscape character, preserving, 

relocating, and restoring ornamental features from the historic period, 

rehabilitating fence lines to define agricultural spaces, and interpreting features 

associated with the family’s recreation. 

SSF-1 Remove non-historic Quentin Roosevelt Memorial and replace flagpole in 

new location 

During the Roosevelt tenure, a flagpole may have stood southeast of the main 

house. In the 1912 film Roosevelt at Home, the former President returns from 

chopping a tree on the property and walks toward the main house on the 

Macadam Road. East of the road, a wood pole is visible that is approximately 

fifteen feet high. The pole’s function cannot be accurately discerned and today, 

the pole is no longer extant (Figure 78). In 1953 the Boy Scouts of America, Inc. 

installed a metal flagpole, approximately fifty feet tall, off the southwest corner of 

the Theodore Roosevelt Home.120 

Quentin Roosevelt, the family’s youngest son, was killed in service during World 

War I and laid to rest at Chamery, France. In 1955, Quentin’s body was moved 

from Chamery to San Laurent, France and placed next to the grave of his brother 

Theodore Jr. who died a decade earlier during World War II. The Theodore 

Roosevelt Association sought to honor Quentin by transporting his marble grave 

marker from the cemetery in Chamery to Sagamore Hill and installing it 

immediately east of the flagpole’s base. The Theodore Roosevelt Association 

formally dedicated the marble grave marker at a Memorial Day service on May 

30, 1956. In July 1959, a foundation and a bronze memorial plaque were installed 

at the western end of the marble grave marker and bluestone was set to form 

narrow walks on the north and south sides of the marker and bronze plaque.121

The flagpole, marble grave marker, and bronze plaque have not moved from their 

1950s location. Presently, the flagpole is encircled by irregular-shaped bluestone 

paving. Two paths of bluestone paving branch off from the circle and extend 

parallel along the length of the marble grave marker. To discourage visitors from 

disrupting the memorial, a sixteen inch high metal post-and-chain fence is 

installed around the marble grave marker. On the north side of the flagpole, the 

park has placed a wayside to aid in interpretation. The size and location of the 

flagpole, the Quentin Memorial, and the associated paving and fencing combine 

to create a formal element in the landscape when historically the area simply 

transitioned from maintained to rustic lawn. In addition, the non-historic 

elements are completely within or on the periphery of significant views during 

the Roosevelts’ years at Sagamore Hill (Figure 79). 

The Quentin Roosevelt Memorial should be removed and the flagpole replaced 

in a new location to eliminate non-historic obstructions in significant views and 

aid in communicating the working agricultural landscape that was present during 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

76 

the Roosevelt tenure. The park should begin by removing the post-and-chain 

fence, bluestone paving, and wayside from these two features. The fence, paving, 

and wayside only serve to call more attention to non-historic features. The metal 

flagpole should be removed and a new, shorter flagpole should be installed east 

of the Macadam Road near where the road turns northwest toward the circular 

drive (Drawing 7). Installing the flagpole on the east side of the road and 

shortening its height will reduce intrusions on views from the Macadam Road to 

the Theodore Roosevelt Home. 

Additional details for a new flagpole that would be compatible with one from the 

historic period can be gleaned from the 1912 film Roosevelt at Home (see Figure 

78). The replacement flagpole should be a wood post approximately fifteen feet 

high. The post should be unfinished and left to weather naturally or treated with 

a clear finish. After removing the metal flagpole, the Quentin Memorial should 

be removed and offered to descendants of the Roosevelt family with a 

recommendation to place the memorial in a cemetery or museum.122 

SSF-2 Preserve Pet Cemetery stone 

During the Roosevelt stewardship of the property, a granite stone was located 

approximately 250 feet north of the main house and immediately south of the 

Service Road. Near the top of an inclined face, block letters were carved into the 

stone to form the heading “Faithful Friends.” Below the heading were engraved 

the names of the Roosevelt family’s deceased pets. Based on the earliest engraved 

date, 1898, the stone was erected that year or shortly after and continued to have 

names added until 1917. The Pet Cemetery stone remains in its original location 

north of the main house and should be preserved in this location.123 There is not 

a sharp contrast between the engraved letters and their granite background and 

as a result, some descriptions are difficult to read. The stone has been 

continuously exposed to natural weathering and atmospheric containments and 

should be reviewed by a conservation specialist. Recommended treatments from 

the conservation specialist should be implemented to preserve the Pet Cemetery 

stone. 

SSF-3 Preserve Sagamore Hill rock 

Based on a circa 1919 photograph, Volume 1 of the Cultural Landscape Report 

identified an elongated stone marker with the words “Sagamore Hill” carved into 

it. The carved letters were painted white and the location of the rock was not 

determined (Figure 80).124 Film likely recorded for but not incorporated into the 

1912 film Roosevelt at Home shows the rock at the entrance to the Macadam Road 

(Figure 81). The fencing in the image and gutter on the right side of the road 

confirm the rock was placed at the entrance to the Macadam Road. Broken stone 

and concrete drainage gutters were a component of the Macadam Road’s design. 
TREATMENT TASKS

77

Additionally, the fence is described by the road’s designer, Hans Rude Jacobsen, 

who detailed that the completed road was, “...winding through the woods of tall 

trees with several stretches of rustic wooden fences...”125 Before completion of 

the Macadam Road, the Sagamore Hill rock probably occupied a similar location 

at the entry to the Carriage Road to welcome the Roosevelt family and guests. 

Today, the Sagamore Hill rock is in good condition and located along Sagamore 

Hill Road near the southwest corner of the property. The rock is visible to 

visitors approaching the park by vehicle or walking along the sidewalk that 

parallels Sagamore Hill Road. Since the historic intent of the rock was to mark an 

entry and greet visitors arriving by vehicle, the Sagamore Hill rock should be 

preserved in its present location.126 Returning the rock to the Macadam Road 

entry is not a viable option. The Macadam Road entry is not located within 

National Park Service property and vehicular traffic no longer enters Sagamore 

Hill from this point. 

SSF-4 Restore border of white painted rocks around circular drive 

Historic photographs indicate that during the Roosevelt tenure, white painted 

rocks were added along the inside and outside perimeters of the circular drive. 

Images from shortly after construction of the main house and also from the 1890s 

do not show the rocks lining the drive (Figure 82 and see Figure 38). In 1912, 

when footage was recorded for the film Roosevelt at Home, the rocks can be seen 

lining the inside and outside perimeters of the circular drive near the portecochere (Figure 83). The rocks were placed on the drive surface at the edge of 

the drive and lawn. In addition to the rocks placed by the porte-cochere, a circa 

1918 photograph shows the rocks along the south and northeastern portions of 

the circular drive (see Figure 30). Additional documentation on the rocks has not 

been discovered, however, the combination of images strongly argues that the 

white painted rocks were placed around the entire circular drive. A 1950 

photograph shows several rocks on the inside perimeter of the circular drive (see 

Figure 33). Although the quantity of rocks has been reduced compared to earlier 

images, the 1950 photograph confirms the presence of this feature throughout 

the period of significance 

The border of white painted rocks around the drive is no longer extant. 

Unpainted rocks are present near the porte-cochere, however, they are placed 

end-to-end, are smaller than the ones seen in historic images, and do not wrap 

around the entire circular drive perimeter. The rock border should be replaced 

using mostly round rocks with smooth edges that are approximately eight to 

twelve inches in diameter. They should be spaced approximately five feet oncenter along both sides of the circular portion of the drive.127
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

78 

SSF-5 Preserve white marble bench 

The Roosevelts received a white marble bench as a gift from Oscar Straus and 

during their tenure, placed the bench in various locations around the main 

house.128 By the early 1920s, the bench was set at a permanent location near the 

northwest corner of the North Room. Historic photographs from circa 1922 and 

the 1930s record the bench set at an angle to the intersection of the North 

Room’s west facade and a projecting bay (Figure 84 and see Figure 26). 

Today, the bench remains at the same location along the North Room’s west 

facade (Figure 85). The bench should be preserved, remain in its current 

location, and if necessary moved slightly away from the corner to accommodate 

vine replacement on the main house and the installation of a trellis structure. 

During the vine replacement, the bench should be protected from construction 

activities and possibly moved to a safe, temporary storage location. 

SSF-6 Replace missing fence lines to define historic agricultural spaces 

The boundaries of the Southeast Field, North Field, South Field, and Cow 

Pasture were clearly delineated by wood post and rail fencing during the period 

of significance (see Figure 48). The main purpose of the fencing was to control 

livestock and separate pasture and grazing areas from crop producing fields.129 A 

fence section was composed of posts, set at approximately ten feet on center, and 

four split rails that were equidistantly spaced (Figure 86). In addition to historic 

photographs, the 1963 Historical Base Map shows fencing around the fields, the 

Cow Pasture, and the west, south, and east perimeters of the orchard (see Figure 

51). The fence lines illustrated on the Historical Base Map for the agricultural 

spaces are confirmed by a series of historic aerial photographs, however, a fence 

along the east perimeter of the orchard cannot be seen (see Figure 53). 

There is an existing perimeter fence around the Cow Pasture and a fence line 

along the south perimeter of the orchard. The fence lines between the Southeast 

Field, North Field, and South Field are currently fragmented or non-existent. 

Successional woody vegetation in the open areas has concealed some remaining 

posts and rails. The heavy density of vegetation makes access for routine 

maintenance difficult and reduces light and air circulation that have accelerated 

wood rot (Figure 87). 

The existing posts at the Cow Pasture are split, half round sections, 

approximately six inches in diameter. The two half rounds are set eight inches 

apart and with a metal support rod, create a pocket to set the rails in. The posts 

measured between 4’-6” and 4’-10” in height with an unknown portion buried 

below grade. The posts are spaced between ten and twelve feet on center. The 

rails are also split and taper to thinner sections at their ends. The overlap 

between the rails varies from six to twenty-four inches. Both the posts and rails 
TREATMENT TASKS

79

contain no sign of bark. Investigations by Bo Stein, Sagamore Hill’s current 

maintenance mechanic, reveal that the extant fence members are chestnut.130 

Chestnut would have been an abundant hardwood species prior to the 

introduction of the chestnut blight fungus in the early twentieth century. 

Following vegetation treatments to remove successional woody growth and 

establish native warm season grasses, the fence lines should be replaced to define 

the historic agricultural spaces at the Southeast Field, North Field, and South 

Field. A fence line should not be replaced at the eastern perimeter of the orchard 

since fencing in this location is not supported by aerial photographs from the 

period of significance. During the vegetation clearing process, extant posts 

should be left in place to guide the layout of the replacement fence lines. Posts 

that are in good condition with sound wood should remain. 

The new fence sections should be constructed from wood that naturally resists 

rot and suitable species include black locust, northern white cedar, and white 

oak. Both the posts and rails should be split and not sawn to match the 

appearance seen in historic photographs and on extant pieces. The wood should 

not be treated and allowed to weather to a natural gray tone. 

Although the historic fence sections are variable, milling and installing the pieces 

will be more efficient with consistent sizes. The posts should be set at a height 4’-

8” above grade and at ten feet on center. At locations where the on center 

spacing does not work out evenly, one section or more should be increased to 

greater than ten feet on center. The rails should be 11’-6” long for the ten foot on 

center spacing and maintain a minimum of six inches of overlap for longer 

sections (Figure 88). 

SSF-7 Locate Target and Rifle Pit and preserve in place 

Roosevelt enjoyed a variety of outdoor activities and took advantage of the 

recreation opportunities at Sagamore Hill. One of his favorite pastimes was 

target shooting. Historic information on the Target and Rifle Pit comes from an 

informal interview with Roosevelt’s daughter, Ethel Roosevelt Derby. Mrs. 

Derby was contacted and corresponded with the National Park Service in 1963 

during the production of an historic base map for the property. Based on that 

dialogue, a target and rifle pit were located on the west facing slope of a ravine 

that divided the South Field. The shooters were located about one hundred 

yards west on the fence that divided the Southeast and South Fields. The ravine 

acted as a backstop for their shots rising up twenty-five feet in elevation from its 

low point.131 Due to the steep topography, the ravine was never cultivated and 

had a forested cover. At the top of the ravine’s west slope, an access road 

provided vehicular circulation to Gray Cottage (see Figure 46). It is unclear 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

80 

whether the target and rifle pit were located at the base of the slope in an open 

area or further east and up on the slope under the wooded canopy. 

The Target and Rifle Pit have not been located or identified in the current 

landscape. The South Field is presently a heavily wooded area and is not 

accessible to visitors. In addition to the wooded canopy, the area is covered with 

Asiatic bittersweet (Celastrus orbiculatus) and summer grape (Vitis aestivalis) 

vines that make traversing the area difficult. The Target and Rifle Pit should be 

located and preserved so this landscape feature can be clearly interpreted. Since 

only a general location is known, archeological investigations along the west 

slope of the ravine are essential in refining and determining where this activity 

took place. Inventorying the park’s archeological resources and defining the 

boundaries of archeological sites are actions identified in the General 

Management Plan for the park to continue studying and managing its 

resources.132

After the location of the Target and Rifle Pit has been identified, associated trees 

that date to the historic period should be identified and preserved. If necessary, a 

certified arborist should be consulted to recommend treatments for damaged or 

diseased trees. Working in coordination with archeological field work and 

protecting potential resources, management of non-native, invasive woody plants 

like Asiatic bittersweet should commence in the South Field. In concert with the 

invasive management, aggressive native species like summer grape should also be 

treated to reduce negative impacts on surrounding vegetation. Any invasive 

management that involves removing large canopy trees, for example Norway 

maple (Acer platanoides), should include a proposed replacement planting in 

order to reduce erosion and opportunities for new invasive species to get 

established. 

SSF-8 Install wayside on Eel Creek bridge to interpret bathhouses and boathouse 

at Cold Spring Harbor beach 

As early as 1888, two or more bathhouses were located at the Cold Spring Harbor 

beach. In August of that year, Roosevelt sent a letter to his sister describing how a 

storm took the roof off the “bathing houses.”133 In 1900, a reporter from the New 

York Tribune listed that Roosevelt had a boathouse and bathing house on Oyster 

Bay. Since Roosevelt did not own property along Oyster Bay at the time of the 

article, it can be inferred that these structures were located at Cold Spring Harbor 

beach.134 In addition to written records, photographs from the early 1900s verify 

that a bathhouse was constructed on the beach (see Figure 63). An aerial 

photograph from 1950 confirms that one or more structures were present 

throughout the family’s tenure at Sagamore Hill. 

Although the beach is not as heavily visited as Sagamore Hill’s historic core, 

Roosevelt and his family did use this area for recreation during the period of 
TREATMENT TASKS

81

significance (Figure 89). No structures, signage, or other indications currently 

inform visitors that structures existed on the beach to support swimming and 

boating. 

A wayside should be installed along the Eel Creek Bridge to interpret an area that 

Roosevelt and his family actively used. The wayside should be strategically 

located to draw attention to the northeast corner of the beach—the general area 

where the structures historically stood. The Cold Spring Harbor beach is within 

a Natural Area management zone defined by the General Management Plan and 

adding appropriate interpretive media is consistent with the objectives for this 

zone.135
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

82 

TABLE 1: SUMMARY OF TREATMENT RECOMMENDATIONS, SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE 

Rehabilitation Task Notes 

Priority for Action 

1 – high priority 

2 – medium priority 

3 – low priority, but requires 

ongoing monitoring 

4 – no action

BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES

BL-1. Minimize landscape impact of 

rehabilitating and expanding the New Barn 

to serve as a visitor contact station 

Coordinate with Line Item 

Construction (LIC) facility 

planning funding when it is 

approved 

1 – high priority for action 

BL-2. Rehabilitate Pet Cemetery arbor 1 – high priority for action 

BL-3. Remove non-historic wood gazebo in 

the flower and vegetable garden 

Coordinate with restoration 

plans for portion of the flower 

and vegetable garden (VG-14)

2 – plan for future action 

BL-4. Remove non-historic Visitor Contact 

Station and rehabilitate chicken yard

Coordinate with Line Item 

Construction (LIC) facility 

planning funding when it is 

approved 

1 – high priority for action 

BL-5. Minimize landscape impact of new 

maintenance facility near Gray Cottage 

Coordinate with Line Item 

Construction (LIC) facility 

planning funding when it is 

approved 

1 – high priority for action 

BL-6. Minimize landscape impact of 

addition for curatorial, research, and 

educational functions at Old Orchard 

Coordinate with Line Item 

Construction (LIC) facility 

planning funding when it is 

approved 

1 – high priority for action 

BL-7. Replace Eel Creek Bridge in historic 

location 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 

BL-8. Preserve culvert, retaining walls, and 

drainage gutter 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 

VEGETATION

VG-1. Replace vine planting on Theodore 

Roosevelt Home 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home 

2 – plan for future action 

VG-2. Replace shrub planting near portecochere 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home 

2 – plan for future action 

VG-3. Replace cherry trees in circular drive 

lawn at the end of their lifecycle 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 

VG-4. Replace honey locust with American 

elm at southwest corner of Theodore 

Roosevelt Home 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home 

2 – plan for future action 

VG-5. Inspect and repair lightning 

protection for signature trees from the 

period of significance 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home. A certified arborist 

should upgrade the lightning 

protection for the trees. 

1 – high priority for action 

VG-6. Remove non-historic shrubs at the 

Ice House 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home and rehabilitation of 

circulation features (CR-3) 

2 – plan for future action 
TREATMENT TASKS

83

Rehabilitation Task Notes 

Priority for Action 

1 – high priority 

2 – medium priority 

3 – low priority, but requires 

ongoing monitoring 

4 – no action

VG-7. Replace shrub and vine planting at 

rehabilitated Pet Cemetery arbor 

Coordinate with rehabilitation of 

arbor (BL-5) 1 – high priority for action 

VG-8. Remove woody vegetation from the 

Service Road trace roadbed and banks 1 – high priority for action 

VG-9. Rehabilitate West Lawn 1 – high priority for action 

VG-10. Rehabilitate Southeast, South, and 

North Fields 1 – high priority for action 

VG-11. Rehabilitate Cow Pasture 1 – high priority for action 

VG-12. Rehabilitate orchard 1 – high priority for action 

VG-13. Implement mowing plan to preserve 

historic landscape character 1 – high priority for action 

VG-14. Restore portion of the flower and 

vegetable garden 

Perform archeological survey to 

identify original foot print of the 

garden, garden paths, and fence 

lines. 

2 – plan for future action 

VG-15. Remove non-historic plant material 

at the visitor contact station and replace red 

maple in the chicken yard 

Coordinate with removing nonhistoric visitor contact station 

and rehabilitating chicken yard 

(BL-4) 

2 – plan for future action 

VG-16. Replace two black locust at eastern 

end of parking lot 

One black locust has been 

replaced. A non-historic red oak 

should be removed and a second 

black locust planted in its place. 

1 – high priority for action 

VG-17. Remove yew at Woodpile Pond 3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 

VG-18. Replace Cousin’s Beech in historic 

location 2 – plan for future action

VG-19. Manage invasive species at Lower 

Lake (Heron Pond) 1 – high priority for action 

VG-20. Remove Phragmites (Phragmites

sp.) along Eel Creek and creek tidal marsh 1 – high priority for action 

VG-21. Manage invasive species at Cold 

Spring Harbor beach 1 – high priority for action 

CIRCULATION

CR-1. Replace brick paving in kind at portecochere Completed 

CR-2. Construct accessible route from the 

parking lot to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home 

Contract for accurate ground 

survey and coordinate with 

exterior repairs to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home 

1 – high priority for action 

CR-3. Rehabilitate circulation at the Ice 

House 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home 

2 – plan for future action 

CR-4. Rehabilitate Service Road trace 

surface treatment 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 

CR-5. Rehabilitate Carriage Road surface 

treatment 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 

CR-6. Rehabilitate Macadam Road surface 

treatment 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

84 

Rehabilitation Task Notes 

Priority for Action 

1 – high priority 

2 – medium priority 

3 – low priority, but requires 

ongoing monitoring 

4 – no action

CR-7. Designate new loop trail 2 – plan for future action 

CR-8. Improve pedestrian access to Old 

Orchard 

Coordinate with rehabilitation of 

the orchard (VG-12) 1 – high priority for action 

VIEWS AND VISTAS

VV-1. Restore and maintain views from the 

Carriage Road and veranda 

Coordinate with rehabilitation of 

West Lawn (VG-9) 1 – high priority for action 

VV-2. Restore and maintain views 

associated with historic agricultural spaces 

Coordinate with rehabilitation of 

fields and pasture (VG-10 and 

VG-11) 

1 – high priority for action 

VV-3. Interpret views from the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home to surrounding water 

bodies 

 2 – plan for future action

SMALL-SCALE FEATURES

SSF-1. Remove non-historic Quentin 

Roosevelt Memorial and relocate flagpole 1 – high priority for action 

SSF-2. Preserve Pet Cemetery stone 1 – high priority for action 

SSF-3. Preserve Sagamore Hill rock 3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition

SSF-4. Restore border of white painted 

rocks around circular drive 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home

2 – plan for future action 

SSF-5. Preserve white marble bench 

Coordinate with exterior repairs 

to the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home 

2 – plan for future action 

SSF-6. Replace missing fence lines to define 

historic agricultural spaces 

Coordinate with West Lawn, 

fields, and pasture rehabilitation 

(VG-9 through VG-11) 

2 – plan for future action 

SSF-7. Locate Target and Rifle Pit and 

preserve in place 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 

SSF-8. Install wayside on Eel Creek bridge 

to interpret bathhouses and boathouse at 

Cold Spring Harbor beach 

3 – requires ongoing monitoring of 

condition 
ENDNOTES

85

ENDNOTES 

 

1

 Marla Miller and Kristin Leahy, “National Register of Historic Places – Sagamore Hill National Historic Site” Draft, June 

4, 2008, sect. 8, 15; Sagamore Hill National Historic Site Final General Management Plan Final Environmental Impact 

Statement (United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 2007), 1.13. 

2

 In addition to the Volume 2 report, the Olmsted Center collaborated with the park and completed the Landscape 

Preservation Maintenance Plan in 1997 to address routine and cyclical maintenance tasks. 

3

 For further information on the Library of Congress collection, please see 

http://memory.loc.gov/ammem/collections/troosevelt_film/index.html. 

4

 The survey is projected in NAD 83, New York State Plane coordinate system, Long Island Zone, US Survey Feet. A copy 

of the survey file can be downloaded from the Denver Service Center's electronic Technical Information Center (eTIC) 

accessed at http://etic.nps.gov. 

5

 Miller and Leahy, “National Register of Historic Places,” sect. 8, 15. 

6

 Referred to as the “Carriage Shed” and “Chicken Coop/Tool Shed” in previously publications, the agricultural 

outbuildings northwest of the New Barn are more appropriately named the Farm Shed and Chicken House respectively. 

The name Farm Shed is based on oral history and the building’s multiple uses in support of farm activities. In addition, the 

Roosevelts’ carriage was too large to fit in this structure and was garaged at the Stable and Lodge. For further information 

on the Farm Shed, please see James J. Lee III, The Farm Buildings at Sagamore Hill Historic Structures Report (United States 

Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 2007), 61-62. Chicken House is a name from the historic period and its 

use reflects upcoming changes to the National Register nomination and List of Classified Structures. 

7 Final General Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement, 2.8. 

8

 Ibid., 1.5. 

9 Master Plan for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, vol. 1, Master Plan Narrative (United States Department of the 

Interior, National Park Service, 1963), 6. 

10 Ibid. 

11 Regina M. Bellavia and George W. Curry, Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, vol. 1, Site 

History, Existing Conditions, and Analysis (1995; reprint, United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 

2003), 220-221. 

12 Ibid., 261. 

13 Regina M. Bellavia and David L. Uschold, Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, vol. 2, 

Treatment Recommendations and Implementation Plan (United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 

1998), 8. 

14 Final General Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement, 2.47. 

15 Ibid., 2.49. 

16 Ibid., 1.6-1.8. 

17 Ibid., 2.13. 

18 Ibid., 2.15. 

19 Ibid. 

20 For further information please see David Werier, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site Invasive Non-native Plant 

Management Plan, Technical Report NPS/NER/NRTR--2006/045 (United States Department of the Interior, National 

Park Service, July 2006). 

21 Final General Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement, 2.49. 

22 Miller and Leahy, “National Register of Historic Places,” sect. 8, 15. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

86 

23 Ibid., 21-22. 

24 Ibid., 22. 

25 Ibid., 25. 

26 Ibid., 15. 

27 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 11. 

28 Werier, Invasive Non-native Plant Management Plan, 53-54. 

29 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 11. 

30 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 12. 

31 James J. Lee III, The New Barn: Historic Structure Report, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (United States Department 

of the Interior, National Park Service, 2005), 48. 

32 Ibid., 86-87. 

33 Sagamore Hill National Historic Site General Management Plan (United States Department of the Interior, National Park 

Service, 2008), 35-36. 

34 The color of the arbor is not known. In the historic black and white photograph, the tone of the arbor is between the 

lightest and darkest values in the image thereby eliminating a black or white finish. The arbor’s tone is in a lighter value 

range best matched by a light gray finish. 

35 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 71. 

36 Photographic analysis presented in Volume 1 indicated the trees were not all the same species. One tree was identified 

as a flowering cherry (Prunus sp.) and the others were possibly different species of Prunus. For further information, please 

see Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 72 and 273. 

37 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 75. 

38 Ibid., 142. 

39 Removing the gazebo is consistent with the approved General Management Plan that states non-historic structures 

within the historic core may be removed in support of resource management and interpretive objectives. For further 

information, please see General Management Plan, 36. 

40 James J. Lee III, The Farm Buildings at Sagamore Hill: Historic Structures Report, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

(United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 2007), 75. 

41 Ibid., 86. 

42 Great American Insurance Co. Inspection and Survey June 1950. TRA Materials, box 5, folder 2, SAHI Archives, as 

cited in Lee, The Farm Buildings at Sagamore Hill, 187. 

43 General Management Plan, 51. 

44 Ibid. 

45 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 112. 

46 General Management Plan, 36. 

47 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 21. 

48 It is difficult to determine from historic photographs and the existing conditions of the gutters if the broken stone wore 

away or was eliminated from the construction during the historic period. 

49 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 23. 
ENDNOTES

87

 

50 Theodore Roosevelt to Anna Roosevelt Cowles, 15 May 1911, as cited in Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 

65. 

51 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 118. 

52 Ibid., 189. 

53 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 28. 

54 Jamie Mcguane, e-mail message to author, March 30, 2009. 

55 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 64; Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 28. 

56 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 26. 

57 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 336. 

58 Ibid., 118. 

59 Robert Alden, “Japanese Premier Opens Game at Yankee Stadium,” New York Times, June 24, 1957. 

60 Removing the cherry trees is consistent with the General Management Plan’s guidance to selectively remove nonhistoric ornamental trees and shrubs. For further information, please see General Management Plan, 34. 

61 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 62; Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 25. 

62 A. M. Townsend, S. E. Bentz, and L. W. Douglass, “Evaluation of 19 American Elm Clones for Tolerance to Dutch Elm 

Disease,” Journal of Environmental Horticulture (March 2005): 21-24. 

63 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 57. 

64 As part of the 1995 Historic Plant Inventory, the beech tree was identified by Dr. Stephen Spongberg, a horticultural 

taxonomist at the Arnold Arboretum. Dr. Spongberg identified the beech as Fagus sylvatica ‘Purpurea’ with the common 

name purple beech. For further information, please see Appendix 4 “Herbarium Specimens Collected” in Olmsted Center 

for Landscape Preservation, Historic Plant Inventory for the Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (United States 

Department of the Interior, National Park Service, December 1995). 

65 Both the purple beech and white oak should be propagated in preparation for future replacement as identified in the 

1997 Landscape Preservation Maintenance Plan. The American elm has been propagated by Olmsted Center for 

Landscape Preservation staff and the sugar maple can be replaced, when necessary, with commercial nursery stock. 

66 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 65. 

67 Kent B. Krugh, “Growing Roses in Shade and Shade Tolerant Roses,” 

http://woodlandrosegarden.com/rose/shade1.htm. 

68 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 89. 

69 The portion of the Carriage Road that connected the main house and Stable and Lodge was constructed circa 1905. In 

1912, construction was completed on a paved road known as the Macadam Road that followed the same alignment as the 

Carriage Road between the house and Stable and Lodge. 

70 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 133. 

71 Rumika Chaudhry and Margie Coffin Brown, “Cultural Landscape Report Treatment Recommendations and 

Implementation Review Meeting” (trip report, Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation, 2008), 6. 

72 In addition to the current emphasis on native plants in meadow seed mixtures, most literature on pasture management 

provides guidance on the eradication of oxeye daisies because they can produce an unwanted flavor in milk if eaten by 

dairy cows. 

73 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 153. 

74 Ibid., 273. 

75 Ibid., 78. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

88 

76 For further information on giant ironweed, please see Werier, Invasive Non-native Plant Management Plan, 17-18. 

77 Donna Macknet and Wayne S. Johnson, Identification and Management of Oxeye Daisy, University of Nevada 

Cooperative Extension. 

78 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 341-342. 

79 An approximate 30-foot by 30-foot grid is consistent with orchard spacing for apple trees grown on standard rootstock. 

Standard trees, as opposed to trees grown on semi-dwarf or dwarf rootstock, require more area between each tree to 

develop healthy branching and fruits. Dwarfing rootstock and higher density orchard spacing developed in the United 

States following World War II. For further information, please see Susan A. Dolan, Fruitful Legacy: A Historic Context of 

Orchards in the United States, with Technical Information on Registering Orchards in the National Register of Historic Places

(United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 2009), 115-116. 

80 All inventoried trees in the orchard were identified with a string of three numbers. The first number, 6 for all orchard 

trees, identified a zone at Sagamore Hill. The next number, 1 for all orchard trees, was the value assigned for a tree 

designation versus shrubs and herbaceous material. Finally, the string concluded with a unique number corresponding to 

each recorded specimen. 

81 Commercially available fruit trees are grafted on rootstock that produces a dwarf, semi-dwarf, or standard size tree. 

Only standard size trees should be selected for Sagamore Hill’s orchard rehabilitation. 

82 The majority of apple trees in the Historic Plant Inventory were not identified to the variety level. Other named varieties 

dating to the historic period include Smokehouse and Stark. The four recommended apple varieties have better disease 

resistance than either Smokehouse or Stark. 

83 Dolan, Fruitful Legacy, 74-75. 

84 Ian A. Merwin, “Some Antique Apples for Modern Orchards,” New York Fruit Quarterly 16, no. 4 (2008): 14; Olmsted 

Center for Landscape Preservation, Orchard Management Plan for Wick Farm Orchard, Morristown National Historical 

Park (United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, September 2007), 47. 

85 Chaudhry and Brown, “Treatment Review Meeting,” 15. 

86 Gene Towne and Paul D. Ohlenbusch, Native Hay Meadow Management, (Kansas State University Agricultural 

Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, July 1992), 1. 

87 In addition to the park’s current flail mower, a PTO-driven “brush hog” rotary mower is useful for mowing fields. 

Compared to a flail mower, a brush hog can better cut small, emerging woody vegetation. 

88 Bruce Peterjohn, Conceptual Ecological Model for Management of Breeding Grassland Birds in the Mid-Atlantic Region, 

Technical Report NPS/NER/NRTR--2006/005 (United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, May 

2006), 16. 

89 Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program, Mowing Advisory Guidelines in Rare Turtle Habitat: Pastures, 

Successional Fields, and Hayfields, (Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, February 2009), 3. 

90 Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation, Orchard Management Plan for Wick Farm Orchard, 53. 

91 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 71. 

92 Both trees are older than trees of the same species that are located in the visitor parking lot. 

93 Chaudhry and Brown, “Treatment Review Meeting,” 8. 

94 The eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana) is also identified in the Historic Plant Inventory as dating to the period of 

significance, however, the tree cannot be seen on either the 1940 or 1950 aerial photograph. The eastern red cedar should 

be preserved but is a likely candidate for removal following the archeological investigations and completion of a 

rehabilitation plan for the flower and vegetable garden. 

95 Theodore Roosevelt An Autobiography (1913; reprint, New York: Da Capo Press, Inc., 1985), 330. 

96 For example, the purple flowering Robinia pseudoacacia ‘Purple Robe’ while commercially available should not be used 

as a replacement. 
ENDNOTES

89

97 Theodore Roosevelt Jr., All in the Family (New York: G. P. Putman’s Sons, The Knickerbocker Press, 1929), 15-16. 

98 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 55. 

99 Chaudhry and Brown, “Treatment Review Meeting,” 3. 

100 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 24. 

101 Dennis E. Skidds, Preliminary Summary of Biological Inventories for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, Northeast 

Coastal and Barrier Network, University of Rhode Island, February 2005, 8. 

102 Ibid., 8-9. 

103 Hans Rude Jacobsen to Ethel Roosevelt Derby, undated, as cited in Francis Wilshin, Historic Resource Study Historical 

Base Map Documentation (United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 1972), 17. 

104 General Management Plan, 42. 

105 Lee, The Farm Buildings at Sagamore Hill, 118. 

106 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 89. 

107 Ibid., 133. 

108 Henry Beach Needham, “Theodore Roosevelt as a Country Gentleman,” The Country Calendar, October 1905, 533. 

109 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 88. 

110 Ibid., 89. 

111 Ibid. 

112 Chaudhry and Brown, “Treatment Review Meeting,” 15. 

113 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 39. 

114 Ibid. 

115 Ibid. 

116 Ibid. 

117 “Colonel Roosevelt’s Home. The Much Talked About House at Oyster Bay and its’ Occupants,” New York Tribune, 

October 2, 1900. 

118 Theodore Roosevelt An Autobiography, 338. 

119 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 39-40. 

120 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 154. 

121 Ibid. 

122 Chaudhry and Brown, “Treatment Review Meeting,” 7. 

123 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 44. 

124 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 98. 

125 Hans Rude Jacobsen to Ethel Roosevelt Derby, undated, as cited in Francis Wilshin, Historic Resource Study Historical 

Base Map Documentation (United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 1972), 18. 

126 Bellavia and Uschold, Treatment Recommendations, 44. 

127 Ibid. 

128 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 100. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

90 

129 Ibid., 93. 

130 Thomas Ross, e-mail message to author, April 10, 2009. 

131 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 82. 

132 General Management Plan, 33. 

133 Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 28. 

134 Ibid. 

135 Final General Management Plan Final Environmental Impact Statement, 2.4. 
91 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 5. View looking southeast at the New Barn, 1907. Construction was completed on the New Barn in 1907 after 

the Farm Barn or Old Barn collapsed circa 1905. The new structure was located in the southwest corner of the North 

Field near the fence that divided the North and South Fields. Several sections of the fence can be seen to the left of the 

barn (Sagamore Hill National Historic Site, hereafter SAHI, no. 1113, Box 6).

Figure 6. View looking northwest at the New Barn. Between 1944 and 

1948, the New Barn was altered to accommodate a residence and garage 

that presently serves as park staff housing. A proposed addition, called 

for in the General Management Plan, will occur over the paved parking 

area in the foreground (east side of the building) to expand the New 

Barn into a visitor contact station (Olmsted Center, January 2009).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

92

Figure 8. Edith and Quentin Roosevelt in front of Pet Cemetery Arbor, circa 1901. The arched arbor is centered on a compacted soil 

path with wood benches placed on either side. Rambler roses are visible growing on both sides of the arbor and deciduous shrubs 

symmetrically flank the north side of the structure (SAHI, no. 1131, Box 6).

Figure 7. View looking south through the Pet Cemetery Arbor, 1906. 

The arched arbor, east of the Pet Cemetery, marked a pedestrian 

gateway from the Service Road to the Theodore Roosevelt Home 

(Walter E. Andrews, “Theodore Roosevelt as a Farmer,” Farm Journal, 

December 1906).
93 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 9. View looking north at the existing Pet Cemetery Arbor. In contrast to the historic arbor, the 

existing arbor has a rectangular shape with rounded corners, benches on three sides, and lacks the 

symmetrically placed deciduous shrubs (Olmsted Center, April 2009).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

94

Figure 10. Plan and elevation for the proposed arbor, benches, and planting. Before installation of the arbor and benches, the crushed 

stone path should be graded to balance existing elevation differences on either side. The arbor should be aligned on center with the 

current path and symmetrical plantings added (Olmsted Center, 2009).

SECTION

PLAN NOT TO SCALE
95 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 11. Richard Derby Jr. at the fenced chicken yard, circa 1918. Beginning in circa 1900 and 

continuing throughout their tenure, the Roosevelts maintained a chicken yard south of the Chicken 

House. Four-by-four posts, approximately seven feet in height and faced with hexagonal wire mesh, 

defined the boundaries of the chicken yard (SAHI no. 10097).

Figure 12. View looking east at the Cow Shed, Farm Shed, and Chicken House, circa 1920. Located 

furthest on the right in this image, the Chicken House featured a double-leaf gate off of its south 

facade. The gates provided access to a fenced chicken yard and swung away from the yard (Isabelle 

Wildt Photos, SAHI Archives).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

96

Figure 13. Great American Insurance Company Map, June 1950. Following Edith Roosevelt’s death, an insurance survey recorded extant 

structures and their condition on the property. A diagram prepared for the survey shows the Chicken House, a second structure attached 

to its east facade, and a dashed line represented the chicken yard. Based on this diagram, the chicken yard measured approximately 

thirty by fifty feet with the longer dimension running south from the Chicken House (SAHI, Theodore Roosevelt Association Materials).
97 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 14. Diagrammatic plan of the proposed chicken yard. Following the removal of the 1956 visitor contact station, a chicken yard 

should be re-established south of the Chicken House. In addition, non-historic plant material associated with the visitor contact station 

should be removed and a red maple replaced in the chicken yard (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Farm Shed

New Barn

Chicken House

Remove Visitor

Contact Station

Entry drive to

Visitor Parking Lot

Walkway to Theodore Roosevelt Home

Remove non-historic

plant material

Remove non-historic

plant material

Remove fence

Rehabilitate Chicken

Yard and fence

Replace

Red Maple

Remove Crabapple

Remove Norway

Maple

Remove Sycamore

Maple

0’ 10’ 20’ 5’

Install double-leaf gate
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

98

Figure 15. View looking northeast toward visitor parking lot. Due to the size of the current maintenance facility, the 

park has dispersed maintenance functions and storage to other locations. These recycling collection containers are 

located east of the New Barn and are easily seen by visitors arriving in the parking lot (Olmsted Center, April 2009).

Figure 16. Diagrammatic plan of the proposed maintenance building. To minimize views of the proposed 6,000 

square foot building, the long axis of the building should be oriented in a roughly north-south direction (Olmsted 

Center, 2009).

115

120

125

130

RETAINING WALL

FORMER GRAY COTTAGE GARAGE

GRAY COTTAGE

6,000 SF MAINTENANCE BUILDING

0’ 25’ 50’ 12.5’
99 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 17. Diagrammatic plan of the proposed addition to Old Orchard. To address the needs for 

climate-controlled collection storage, researcher workspace, and educational programming, an addition 

is proposed to the southeast of the Old Orchard estate. This location will minimize intrusions on views 

from the west and avoid conflicts with the remaining trees in the historic orchard (Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site General Management Plan, United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 

2008 and Olmsted Center).

Figure 18. “Playing in the Sand,” circa 1904. A simple wood bridge crossing Eel Creek to the beach along 

Cold Spring Harbor is visible in the background. When the current bridge needs to be replaced, a new 

design and location should be based on the details gleaned from this image and other historic documents 

(Courtesy of the Library of Congress).

OLD

ORCHARD

ADDITION

Bench

Bench Bench

Trash

Receptacle

Staff / Handicap

Parking

Light

Fixture

Gate

Light

Fixture

Manhole

Transformer

Trail

Sign

Bike

Rack

Woodland Trail

0’ 15’ 30’ 60’
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

100

Figure 20. “Going to See Roosevelt,” May 27, 1916. Approximately four years after the Macadam Road and concrete gutters were 

completed, a retaining wall constructed from vertical wood posts and horizontal wood slats marked the east side of the road. The 

wooden retaining wall was later removed and a dry-laid stone retaining wall added in its place (SAHI no. 13712).

Figure 19. Macadam Road Cross Section. The section was redrawn from a 1911 original prepared by Hans Rude Jacobsen for Roosevelt’s 

new Macadam Road. The finish grades of any future surfacing should match the historic crown of the Macadam Road and should not 

extend into or cover the historic concrete gutters on either side (Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 54).
101 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 21. View looking southwest at retaining wall along Macadam Road. The retaining wall is one of 

several site engineering elements that should be preserved. The wall was recently stabilized through a 

project that removed adjacent trees and reset the dry-laid stones (Olmsted Center, April 2009).

Figure 22. Roosevelt reading mail under the porte-cochere, 1912. The south columns of the porte-cochere, 

behind Roosevelt, were planted with wisteria (Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

102

Figure 24. Roosevelt walking from porte-cochere, 1912. Note the difference in the appearance between 

the fiveleaf akebia, left of Roosevelt on the veranda, and wisteria, right of Roosevelt on the portecochere (Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).

Figure 23. Roosevelt seated on balustrade of veranda, 1905. The end 

post of the balustrade and north columns of the porte-cochere were 

planted with fiveleaf akebia (SAHI no. 9185).
103 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 25. View looking southeast at the North Room, circa 1905. Young wisteria vines can be seen planted at the base of 

the North Room shortly after construction was completed (SAHI no. 1124).

Figure 26. View looking southeast at the North Room, circa 1922. The wisteria vines were trained to surround the 

windows on the west and north facades of the North Room (SAHI no. 1149, Box 6).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

104

Figure 27. Close-up of trellis support system, Frederick Law Olmsted National Historic Site. The bracket, eyebolt, snap 

hook, and cables promote vine growth away from the face of the historic structure where the vine could be damaging. 

The cables and snap hook can be detached from the eyebolt when building maintenance is necessary. A similar system 

should be installed at the Theodore Roosevelt Home as part of the vine replacement (Olmsted Center, 2000).
105 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 28. Diagrammatic shrub and vine planting plan for the Theodore Roosevelt Home. Shrubs and vines were an integral component 

of the historic landscape character at the main house and should be replaced (Olmsted Center, 2009).

0’ 3.75’ 7.5’

Main House

Purple

Beech

Sugar

Maple

American

Elm, see

task VG-4

Plant male winterberry

hollies (Ilex verticillata

‘Jim Dandy’) 

Plant male winterberry

holly (Ilex verticillata

‘Jim Dandy’) 

Plant wisteria

Plant wisteria

Plant wisteria

Shift white marble bench away

from home to accommodate

wisteria planting, see task SSF-5

Remove existing

mock orange and

plant wisteria

Plant wisteria

Plant bridalwreath

(Spiraea prunifolia)

at the end of purple

beech’s lifecycle

Train existing

wisteria

Train existing wisteria

Remove existing

barberry
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

106

Figure 30. Richard Derby Jr., left, and Edith Derby, in wagon, on circular drive, circa 1918. Looking north 

at the porte-cochere, a shrub can be seen near the southwest column of the structure. It is difficult to 

determine specific planting at the southeast corner. This photograph also shows the trunks of the tulip 

poplar, behind wagon, and Scotch elm, far right, in the circular drive lawn (Ethel Derby Family Album, 

SAHI no. 7644).

Figure 29. View looking northwest at the porte-cochere, 1905. A bridalwreath (Spiraea prunifolia) 

was located along the circular drive south of the library’s bay window. In addition, barberries 

(Berberis sp.) were present at the southwest and southeast corners of the porte-cochere along with 

a single yew (Taxus sp.) at the southwest corner (SAHI no. 1123A, Box 6).
107 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 31. View looking southeast at Roosevelt greeting visitors, circa 1916–18. Looking over 

Roosevelt’s back, a deciduous shrub can be seen near the southwest corner of the porte-cochere 

(Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).

Figure 32. View looking northeast at the Theodore Roosevelt 

Home, 1905. In addition to maps and work orders from the period 

of significance, this photograph shows an American Elm, center, and 

a Scotch elm, right, in the circular drive lawn (SAHI no. 1117, Box 6).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

108

Figure 33. View looking northeast across circular drive, 1950. Of the three trees identified in the circular 

drive lawn during the Roosevelt tenure, only the American elm can be seen in this photograph (SAHI, 

Theodore Roosevelt Association Materials, Box 5, Folder 2, GAIC “A”).

Figure 34. Visitor photographing cherry trees in the circular drive lawn. In 1957, two cherry trees were 

planted by Japanese Premier Nobusuke Kishi and the Theodore Roosevelt Association to recognize 

Roosevelt’s role in the Russo-Japanese War peace negotiations (Olmsted Center, April 2009).
109 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 35. Diagrammatic plan for replacement planting at the circular drive lawn. After the existing cherries have substantially declined, 

require removal, and are replaced in kind elsewhere, the circular lawn should be planted with an American elm, a Scotch elm, and a tulip 

poplar as indicated by historic photographs and documents (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Tulip Poplar

American Elm

Scotch Elm

Main House

Benches

Concrete

Gutter

European Schwedler Maple

Beech

Purple

Beech

American

Elm, see

task VG-4

Benches

Trash

Receptacles

0’ 3.75’ 7.5’ 15’
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

110

Figure 37. View looking northeast at the elm and Theodore Roosevelt Home, 1912. Based on historic 

work orders from a local nursery, the elm at the southwest corner of the home has been identified 

as a “weeping elm.” The elm is most likely an American elm (Ulmus americana) and the “weeping” 

appearance is part of the tree’s habit and not indicative of a weeping cultivar or variety (Roosevelt at 

Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).

Figure 36. Roosevelt addressing a crowd from the veranda, 1916. The trunk of the elm and its 

gracefully arching branches can be seen in this image taken during a rally to support Roosevelt for the 

1916 presidential nomination (Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).
111 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 38. Bob Fergusen holding Ethel Roosevelt, circa 1894. After construction on the home was completed, trees 

were immediately planted and by the early 1890s, were well established. The American elm at the southwest corner 

of the house can be seen on the left (SAHI, no. 5519, Box 10).

Figure 39. View looking east at white oak near Gardener’s Shed. 

Although lightning protection has been installed on this historic tree, the 

grounding cable is not adequately secured and at other locations, the 

tree has grown around the cable. To continue preserving the tree, the 

lightning protection should be upgraded (Olmsted Center, March 2009).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

112

Figure 40. Ice House behind Roosevelt standing in circular drive, 1912. During the period 

of significance the brick, octagonal structure stored ice collected or cut from nearby ponds 

(Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).

Figure 41. View looking northeast at the Ice House, circa 1960. During the Theodore Roosevelt 

Association’s stewardship of the property, the Ice House was renovated to provide public 

restrooms for visitors. As part of the conversion, new circulation patterns, paving materials, and 

non-historic, ornamental plantings were added (SAHI Archives).
113 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 42. Diagrammatic plan for the Ice House. The brick paving and post-and-chain fence should be removed along with 

a concrete landing and metal guardrail on the north side of the structure. Ornamental shrubs added during the Theodore 

Roosevelt Administration stewardship should also be removed. A new three-foot wide walk should be installed that meets 

the circular drive at a right angle. The walk should be surfaced with crushed stone that matches the existing Pet Cemetery 

walk (Olmsted Center, 2009).

0’ 5’ 10’ 2.5’

MAIN HOUSE ICE HOUSE

Hydrant

Concrete

Gutter

Circular

Drive

Concrete

Gutter

Relocate

wayside

Remove existing

brick walk 

Remove ornamental

shrub, typ.

Remove existing metal

guardrail and elevated

concrete landing

Remove existing

post-and-chain

fence 

Install new 3-foot

wide path with crushed

stone surfacing to match

Pet Cemetery walk
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

114

Figure 43. Theodore Roosevelt’s sketch plan of Sagamore Hill, circa 1880. The sketch identifies the property’s existing agricultural uses, 

circulation, and natural features including a pond in the southeast portion of the property (SAHI Archives).
115 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 44. Vehicular circulation to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home, 1953. A new county road, shown in 

red, was constructed in 1953 as part of plans to open 

Sagamore Hill to the public. No longer utilized, a 

northern section of the Service Road became obscured 

in woodland vegetation and today is visible as a trace 

(Olmsted Center, 2009).

Figure 45. “Across the Field, Sagamore Hill,” circa 1904. This photograph shows a distinction 

between regularly maintained lawn near the home and a meadow to the west. Oxeye daisies were 

the dominant flowering plant and prompted Roosevelt family members to refer to the area as the 

“Daisy Meadow” (Courtesy of the Library of Congress).

Main House

Service Road

Service Road

section visible

as trace

Macadam Road

Abandoned section

of Carriage Road

Stable

and

Lodge

Pump

House

Windmill

Macadam Road

NOT TO SCALE

County Road

(Sagamore Hill Road)
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

116

Figure 46. Aerial photograph, 1950. The West Lawn has numerous dark blotches indicating successional woody 

vegetation is increasing. By the late 1990s, the open and expansive character of the West Lawn was severely 

compromised by large trees and shrubs (LKB, Inc., Syosset, New York, and Olmsted Center).

Figure 47. View looking southeast to the “Farm Barn,” prior to 1904. The Southeast Field, located southeast 

of the main house and immediately east of the Windmill, was a cultivated field where corn and timothy were 

grown. Note the planted rows in this photograph (SAHI, no. 1132, Box 6).

WEST LAWN

NORTH FIELD

SOUTH FIELD

SOUTHEAST

FIELD

COW

PASTURE
117 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 48. View looking east from the Windmill of the Southeast, North, and South Fields, prior to 1907. East 

of the Southeast Field, foreground, were two rectangular spaces now referred to as the North Field, left, and 

the South Field, right. The North and South Fields were used for grazing and hay production and most likely 

had alternating crops of alfalfa and timothy (SAHI, no. 1135, Box 6).

Figure 49. View looking southwest across the Cow Pasture. Due to a recent equipment failure, the southern 

portion of the Cow Pasture has not been consistently mown and is overrun with woody invasive species 

(Olmsted Center, April 2009).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

118

Figure 50. Aerial photograph, 1926. On the right of the photograph, fifty-three mature orchard trees are 

present east of an access road that paralleled a fence line between the orchard and Cow Pasture. Another 

eight trees are located between the fence line and access road (Nassau County DPW-Drainage Section, 

Mineola, New York and Olmsted Center).

Figure 51. Historical Base Map, 1963. The geometry and consistency of the orchard’s grid would have been 

easily recognized in the landscape, however, the trees recorded on the 1926 aerial did not form a large, 

rectangular block as depicted in the Historical Base Map (National Park Service).
119 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 52. Ice storm damage in the orchard, circa 1940. The construction of the Old Orchard estate in 1938 and an ice 

storm several years later destroyed many trees that were present during Theodore Roosevelt’s life (Courtesy of the 

Library of Congress).

Figure 53. Aerial photograph, 1940. The Old Orchard estate is seen in the lower right of the photograph. On either side 

of the entry drive, several trees were added parallel to the drive following the estate’s construction (SAHI Archives).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

120

Figure 54. View looking southwest at young apple tree. In the 

western portion of the orchard, three of the sixteen existing trees 

have been recently planted and are small compared to surrounding 

specimens (Olmsted Center, March 2009).

Figure 55. View looking southeast in the orchard. Even with regular maintenance, an apple tree dating to 

the period of significance was recently lost (Olmsted Center, April 2009).
121 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 56. Diagrammatic mowing plan to preserve the historic landscape character of Sagamore Hill’s open spaces. The plan indicates 

the area, frequency, height, and season for mowing (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Main House

Mow regularly during

growing season 2-4" high

Orchard

Mow 1-2 times per month during

growing season 3-5" high

West Lawn

Mow early Aug. 8" high (after daisies have seeded)

After Aug. once a month during growing season

Fields and Pasture

Mow late Aug. or early Sept. 8" high

Mow 2-4" high swath along

pedestrian routes regularly

during growing season 

NOT TO SCALE
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

122

Figure 57. Pasture grazing and haying diagram showing the best times to graze or cut fields to optimize the quantity and nutritional 

quality of the available material. Similar to this diagram, Sagamore Hill’s fields and pasture should be mown in late August or early 

September to create a compatible appearance with the historic agricultural use (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Figure 58. Diagrammatic mowing route to minimize potential wildlife impacts. Mowing should be performed at a slow speed and start 

in the center of a field. Concentric passes should be made from the center so the mower arrives at the edge of a field last. Slow speeds 

combined with an inside to outside pattern allows time for animals to react and leave an area to be mown (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Timing for Grazing or Cutting

Grazing

Height of Sward (meters)

Cutting

JAN

1.0

Cut and remove cuttings

Graze

0.5

FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

1.0

0.5

Cut and remove cuttings

Graze
123 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 60. Park staff securing the protective wire enclosure around 

the Cousin’s Beech. After a wind storm toppled the original tree, 

a clone was gifted to the park and planted near the fence line 

between the North and South Fields (Olmsted Center, January 2009).

Figure 59. Detail plan of existing conditions at the flower and vegetable garden. In preparation for rehabilitating portions of the flower 

and vegetable garden, an archeological survey should be conducted to identify the original foot print of the garden, garden paths, and 

fence lines. An existing Kwanzan cherry, crabapple, three quinces, an apple, and the Lincoln boxwood are identified in the Historic Plant 

Inventory as dating to the period of significance and should be preserved (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Remove non-historic

gazebo, see task BL-3

Preserve

Lincoln

Boxwood

Preserve

Kwanzan

Cherry

Preserve

Crabapple

Preserve

Apple

Preserve

Quinces

Entrance

Sign

0’ 45’22.5’

Visitor Parking Lot

Road to Old Orchard
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

124

Figure 61. View looking southwest at Lower Lake and Woodland Trail. West of the lake, a contiguous 

swath of vinca (Vinca minor) stands out as an evergreen carpet in contrast to the leaf litter and forest 

debris. During the Roosevelt tenure, Lower Lake did not have ornamental plantings and was left as a 

natural feature. The vinca should be removed to preserve the appearance of the area during the period

of significance (Olmsted Center, March 2009).

Figure 62. View looking southeast at Eel Creek and tidal marsh. The southern portion of the creek and 

marsh is currently dominated by a stand of phragmites (Phragmites sp.) seen in this photograph with seed 

tassels at the top of their tall reeds (Olmsted Center, March 2009).
125 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 63. Bathhouse at Cold Spring Harbor beach, circa 1917. 

Vegetation on the beach and marsh consisted of predominantly 

low-growing species adapted to the sandy soils. The phragmites 

currently in the southern portion of the marsh is inconsistent 

with the low-growing material that occupied the area during the 

Roosevelt tenure (SAHI, Family Photo Album no. 7644).

Figure 64. “Pony Grant - C.S.H. Beach,” no date. The Roosevelt family constructed bathhouses and 

a boathouse on Cold Spring Harbor beach to support recreation activities. Note the lack of any tall 

vegetation in proximity to the structure (SAHI no. 5537).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

126

Figure 65. Archie Roosevelt on wagon under 

porte-cochere, 1901. A square area under the 

porte-cochere was paved with bricks laid on 

edge in a herringbone pattern (SAHI, Family 

Photo Album no. 7638).

Figure 66. Uncovered brick paving along portecochere stone wall. After carefully removing 

several inches of asphalt, a field of bricks laid 

on edge in a herringbone pattern was revealed 

under the porte-cochere. Along the portecochere stone wall, a border course can be 

seen with bricks set on edge (Olmsted Center, 

March 2009).
127 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 68. West facade of the Stable and Lodge, 1905. A path is visible on the right side of the photograph 

south of the Stable and Lodge. As part of a proposed accessible route from the parking lot to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home, a new walk should be installed south of the Stable and Lodge site (SAHI, no. 1112, Box 6).

Figure 67. Plan to replace brick paving in kind at porte-cochere. In order to retain a unique paving feature 

from the Roosevelt tenure and provide for a safe visitor experience, new brick paving should be installed 

that matches the existing in size, color, texture, and finish. The brick should be installed on edge for the 

border courses and herringbone field (Olmsted Center, 2009).

NOT TO SCALE
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

128

Figure 69. Diagrammatic plan of the proposed accessible route to the Theodore Roosevelt Home. The accessible route 

should use the existing walk north of the Farm Shed and then branch to the northwest on a new walk near the Stable and 

Lodge site. After crossing the drive, the route should continue west avoiding trees that date to the Roosevelt tenure. The 

route then proceeds south on the Pet Cemetery path toward an accessible entrance at the northwest corner of the veranda 

(Olmsted Center, 2009).

STABLE AND LODGE SITE Wayside

Bench

Concrete

Gutter

Service Road Trace

WINDMILL

PUMP HOUSE

MAIN HOUSE ICE HOUSE

Boulder

Benches

Catch

Basin

Hydrant Hydrant

Hydrant

Concrete

Gutter

Wayside

Stone

Edging

P R O P O S E D A C C E S S I B L E R O U T E

0’ 15’ 30’ 7.5’

1.5%

3.1%

3.5%
129 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 70. View of the Theodore Roosevelt Home from 

the Carriage Road, 1905. From the southwest corner 

property, the Carriage Road climbed steep inclines and 

emerged from the woodlands to offer the Roosevelts 

and visitors a view of the south facade of the home 

(SAHI, no. 1071, Box 5).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

130

Figure 71. Vehicular circulation to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home, circa 1905. The Carriage 

Road started in the southwest corner of the 

property and wound up a steep hill. By 1905, 

an extension was constructed north of the 

main house that connected to the Service Road 

(Olmsted Center, 2009).

Figure 72. Vehicular circulation to the Theodore 

Roosevelt Home, 1912. Construction was 

completed on the Macadam Road, shown in red, 

in 1912. Automobiles had difficulty climbing 

the switchbacks of the Carriage Road and the 

Macadam Road’s route avoided the property’s 

steep topography. The southern portion of the 

Carriage Road was abandoned and is visible 

today as a trace (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Main House

Service Road

Service Road

Carriage Road

Extension

Carriage Road

Stable

and

Lodge

Pump

House

Windmill

NOT TO SCALE

Main House

Service Road

Service Road

Macadam Road

Abandoned section

of Carriage Road

Stable

and

Lodge

Pump

House

Windmill

Macadam Road

NOT TO SCALE
131 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 74. Chipseal surfacing. One possible surface treatment for the Macadam Road is chipseal or rolled 

stone surfacing. This type of paving is very durable and can be installed over an asphalt base (Olmsted 

Center, 2009).

Figure 73. View looking northeast across the Macadam Road. The Macadam Road was recently resurfaced 

as part of a larger paving project at Sagamore Hill. Although the Macadam Road was the only paved 

surfaced during the Roosevelt tenure, the smooth finish of contemporary asphalt does not match the 

rougher texture of the historic surface (Olmsted Center, April 2009).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

132

Figure 76. Sections showing cross slope options on pedestrian access path to Old Orchard. Material 

should be added to the pedestrian access path to create a cross slope from north to south or from a raised 

centerline to either side. For either option, the entire crown of the path should be above the top of the 

steel edging. (Olmsted Center, 2009).

Figure 75. View looking west at the pedestrian access path from Old Orchard to the visitor parking lot. 

The path was constructed with stonedust bordered on either side by steel edging. The loss of a crown and 

raised steel edging have resulted in water ponding on the path (Olmsted Center, March 2009).

NORTH TO SOUTH CROSS SLOPE

Top of steel edging

Top of steel edging

CROWNED CROSS SLOPE NOT TO SCALE
133 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 77. Diagram showing viewsheds from the entrance drive to the Theodore Roosevelt Home and 

from the veranda to the West Lawn (Bellavia and Curry, Cultural Landscape Report, 86).

Figure 78. Roosevelt and wood pole at edge of entry drive, 1912. Although the function of the pole 

cannot be identified, its location east of the drive, scale, material, and finish should inform the selection 

of a compatible replacement for the flagpole at the Quentin Roosevelt Memorial (Roosevelt at Home, 

Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).

NOT TO SCALE
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

134

Figure 80. Richard Derby Jr. standing in front of Sagamore Hill rock, circa 1919. During the historic period, 

an elongated stone marker with the words “Sagamore Hill” carved into it was present on the property 

but its location cannot be determined from this photograph (SAHI, Family Photo Album no. 7644).

Figure 79. Aerial photograph, 1926. A lighter band of regularly maintained lawn extends from the west 

facade of the house and then transitions to a rustic lawn. Installed in the 1950s the Quentin Roosevelt 

Memorial and flagpole, shown with the red dot, create a formal element in the landscape when 

historically the area simply transitioned from maintained to rustic lawn (Nassau County DPW-Drainage 

Section, Mineola, New York and Olmsted Center).
135 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 81. Sagamore Hill rock at entry to Macadam Road, 1912. Before completion of the Macadam 

Road, the Sagamore Hill rock probably occupied a similar location at the entry to the Carriage Road. 

Since vehicular traffic no longer uses the Macadam Road, the rock should not be returned to this location 

(Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).

Figure 82. View looking north at the porte-cochere and veranda, circa 1885. During the Roosevelt 

tenure, white painted rocks were added along the inside and outside perimeters of the circular drive. 

However, this image demonstrates the rocks were not present shortly after construction of the main 

house (Francis Wilshin, Historic Resource Study Historical Base Map Documentation, United States 

Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 1972, 212).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

136

Figure 84. View looking southeast at the Theodore Roosevelt Home, circa 1930s. The Roosevelts 

received a white marble bench as a gift and during their tenure, placed the bench in various locations 

around the main house. By the early 1920s, the bench was set at a permanent location near the 

northwest corner of the North Room (SAHI no. 9361).

Figure 83. Roosevelt walking from porte-cochere, 1912. White painted rocks can be seen lining the inside 

and outside perimeters of the circular drive near the porte-cochere. The rocks were placed on the drive 

surface at the edge of the drive and lawn (Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).
137 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 85. White marble bench at the North Room’s west facade. The bench should be preserved, remain 

in its current location, and if necessary moved slightly away from the corner to accommodate vine 

replacement on the main house and the installation of a trellis structure (Olmsted Center, April 2009).

Figure 86. Post and rail fence near New Barn, circa 1918. The wood 

fences used during the period of significance were composed of posts, 

set at approximately ten feet on center, and four split rails that were 

equidistantly spaced (*87M-100, Theodore Roosevelt Collection, 

Houghton Library, Harvard University).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

138

Figure 88. Plan and elevation for new post and rail fence sections. Following vegetation treatments to remove successional woody 

growth and establish native warm season grasses, fence lines should be replaced to define the historic agricultural spaces (Olmsted 

Center, 2009).

Figure 87. Existing post and rail fence between North and South Fields. 

Successional woody vegetation in historic open areas conceals some 

remaining posts and rails, makes routine maintenance difficult, and 

accelerates wood decay (Olmsted Center, January 2009).

ELEVATION

PLAN NOT TO SCALE
139 

Treatment Tasks

Figure 89. Roosevelt rowing in Cold Spring Harbor, 1912. In order to interpret the Cold Spring Harbor 

beach as an area with outbuildings that supported a variety of activities, a wayside should be installed 

along the Eel Creek Bridge (Roosevelt at Home, Roosevelt Memorial Association, Inc.).
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

140
Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

0’ 37.5’ 75’ 150’

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Property Line

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

NOTES

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

BL-2 Rehabilitate Pet Cemetery arbor

VG-7 Replace shrub and vine

planting at arbor

BL-4 Remove

non-historic

visitor contact

station and

rehabilitate

chicken yard

VG-15 Remove non-historic plant

material at visitor contact station

BL-5 Minimize landscape impact

of new maintenance facility 

SSF-7 Locate and preserve

Target and Rifle Pit

SSF-6 Replace missing fence lines

BL-1 Minimize landscape impact

of expanding New Barn 

SSF-6 Replace missing fence lines

SSF-6 Replace missing fence lines

SSF-6 Replace missing fence lines

SSF-1 Remove non-historic Quentin

Roosevelt Memorial and replace flagpole

CR-7 Designate new loop trail

CR-7 Designate new loop trail

CR-2 Construct accessible route 

CR-5 Rehabilitate Carriage Road

surface treatment

SSF-3 Preserve Sagamore Hill rock

CR-6 Rehabilitate Macadam Road

surface treatment

BL-8 Preserve culvert, retaining walls,

and drainage gutters

BL-8 Preserve culvert, retaining

walls, and drainage gutters

VG-6 Remove non-historic

shrubs at the Ice House

BL-8 Preserve culvert, retaining

walls, and drainage gutters

CR-4 Rehabilitate Service Road trace surface

VG-8 Remove woody vegetation from the

Service Road trace roadbed and banks

CR-3 Rehabilitate

circulation

at Ice House

VG-17 Remove yew at Woodpile Pond

VG-16 Replace black locust

VG-16 Remove existing

red oak and replace with

black locust

VG-5 Inspect and repair

lightning protection

VG-9 Rehabilitate West Lawn

VG-4 Replace honey locust with 

American elm

VG-3 Replace cherry trees

at end of life cycle

VG-10 Rehabilitate Southeast,

South, and North Fields

VG-11 Rehabilitate Cow Pasture

VG-14 Restore portion of the

flower and vegetable garden

BL-3 Remove non-historic wood gazebo 

Treatment Plan

West Enlargement

Drawing 7

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 8

VG-10 Rehabilitate Southeast,

South, and North Fields

VG-10 Rehabilitate Southeast,

South, and North Fields

CR-8 Improve access to Old Orchard

SSF-1 Proposed

flagpole location

New Barn

North Field

South Field

Southeast Field

West Lawn

Main House

Carriage Road

Retaining Wall

Retaining Wall

Tennis Court Approximate

Location

Target and

Rifle Pit

Cow

Pasture

To Old Orchard

Old Barn Site

Gray Cottage

Woodpile

Pond

Chicken

House

Ice House

Gardener’s

Shed

Stable and

Lodge Site

Macadam Road

Service Road Trace

Pet Cemetery

S a g a m o r e H i l l R o a d

Pet Cemetery Path

Entrance

Sign

Visitor Parking Lot

Pig Sty Site

Windmill

Pump House

Farm

Shed

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

0’ 375’ 75’ 150’

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Property Line

Mean High Water

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Tidal Marsh

BL-7 Replace Eel Creek Bridge

in historic location

SSF-8 Install wayside on Eel Creek bridge

to interpret bathhouses and boathouse at

Cold Spring Harbor Beach

BL-6 Minimize landscape impact of addition

for curatorial, research, and educational

functions at Old Orchard

VG-12 Rehabilitate

orchard 

VG-18 Replace Cousin's Beech

in historic location

VG-19 Manage invasive

species at Lower Lake

VG-20 Remove Phragmites along

Eel Creek and creek tidal marsh

VG-21 Manage invasive species 

at Cold Spring Harbor Beach

Treatment Plan

East Enlargement

Drawing 8

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 7

Old

Orchard

Garage

Foreman’s

Cottage

Cold Cellar

Orchard

Lower

Lake

Woodland Trail

Boardwalk

Woodland Trail

E e l C r e e k

C o l d S p r i n g H a r b o r

Orchard

Orchard

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 7.5’ 15’ 30’

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Post and Chain Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

SSF-1 Remove non-historic

Quentin Roosevelt Memorial

and relocate flagpole

CR-3 Rehabilitate

circulation at

Ice House

VG-6 Remove nonhistoric shrubs

at Ice House

VG-5 Inspect and

repair lightning

protection

VG-5 Inspect and

repair lightning

protection

VG-5 Inspect and

repair lightning

protection

VG-9 Rehabilitate

West Lawn

VG-1 Replace

vine planting

SSF-5 Preserve

white marble bench

VG-1 Replace

vine planting

VG-1 Replace

vine planting

VG-1 Replace vine planting

CR-1 Replace brick

paving in kind at

porte-cochere

VG-2 Replace

shrub planting

SSF-4 Restore border

of white painted rocks

VG-4 Replace honey locust

with American elm

VG-3 Replace cherry trees

at end of lifecycle

Treatment Plan

Theodore Roosevelt Home

Drawing 9

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 10 MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 10

WINDMILL

PUMP HOUSE

MAIN HOUSE ICE HOUSE

QUENTIN

ROOSEVELT

MEMORIAL

Wayside

Boulder

Wayside

Benches

Benches

Trash

Receptacles

Catch

Basin

Catch

Basin

Hydrant Hydrant

Hydrant

Hydrant

Light Fixture

Light Fixture

Concrete

Gutter

Wayside

Stone

Edging

Wayside

TO VISITOR

CONTACT

STATION

Pet Cemetery Path

Macadam

Road

CR-2 Construct

accessible route

to the Theodore

Roosevelt Home 

CR-2 Construct accessible route

to the Theodore Roosevelt Home 

BL-8 Preserve culvert,

retaining walls, and

drainage gutters

BL-8 Preserve culvert, retaining

walls, and drainage gutters

BL-8 Preserve culvert,

retaining walls, and

drainage gutters

CR-6 Rehabilitate Macadam

Road surface treatment

Trench

Drain

Wayside

Light Fixture

WEST LAWN Wayside Light Fixture

Oil Tank

Covers

1-1-34

1-1-34.5

1-1-35-R

1-1-37-R

1-1-30

1-1-23

3-1-23 1-1-48

1-1-52

1-2-9

1-2-40–

1-2-43

1-2-37–

1-2-39

1-2-50

1-2-51

1-2-52

1-2-1

1-2-4

1-2-3

1-2-10

1-1-48.5

1-1-49

1-1-51

1-1-44

1-1-53

1-1-58

1-1-60

1-1-44.5

1-2-6

1-1-63

1-1-77

1-1-78

1-1-88

1-1-79

3-1-39

1-2-7

1-1-45

1-1-45.5

1-1-26.5a 1-1-26.5

1-1-50

1-1-32

1-1-28.5

1-1-31

1-1-36

1-1-72

1-2-26

1-2-25

1-2-27

1-1-75.5

1-1-73

1-2-28

1-1-70

1-1-77

1-1-66

1-1-67

1-1-86

1-1-89

1-1-87

3-1-32

3-1-31

3-2-8

3-1-24

1-1-65

ID # Scientific Name Common Name Meets Historic Criteria?

1-1- 23 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 26.5 Acer palmatum Japanese Maple Y

1-1- 26.5a Acer palmatum Japanese Maple Y

1-1- 28.5 Fagus sylvatica 

'Purpurea'

Purple Beech Y

1-1- 30 Acer platanoides 

'Schwedleri'

Schwedler Maple Y

1-1- 31 Prunus sp. Cherry

1-1- 32 Prunus sp. Cherry

1-1- 34 Quercus velutina Black Oak Y

1-1- 34.5 Prunus serotina Black Cherry

1-1- 35-R Aesculus hippocastanum Horsechestnut

1-1- 37-R Fagus sylvatica European Beech

1-1- 36 Gleditsia triacanthos 

var. inermis

Thornless 

Honeylocust

1-1- 44 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 44.5 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 45 Cornus mas Cornelian Cherry

1-1- 45.5 Cornus mas Cornelian Cherry

1-1- 48 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 48.5 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 49 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 50 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 51 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 52 Juniperus virginiana Eastern Red Cedar Y

1-1- 53 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 58 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 60 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 63 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 65 Fagus sylvatica European Beech Y

1-1- 66 Ulmus americana American Elm Y

1-1- 67 Fagus grandifolia American Beech Y

1-1- 70 Pinus strobus White Pine

1-1- 71 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 72 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 73 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 75.5 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 77 Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Y

1-1- 78 Betula pendula European White 

Bark Birch

1-1- 79 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1- 86 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 87 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1- 88 Cornus florida Flowering Dogwood

1-1- 89 Acer platanoides Norway Maple Y

1-2- 1 Forsythia suspensa Weeping Forsythia

1-2- 3 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 4 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 6 Taxus baccata 

'Columnaris'

Columnar Yew Y

1-2- 7 Taxus baccata 

'Columnaris'

Columnar Yew Y

1-2- 9 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 10 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

1-2- 25 Deutzia scabra Fuzzy Deutzia

1-2- 26 Wisteria species Wisteria species

1-2- 27 Philadelphus coronarius Mock Orange

1-2- 28 Taxus cuspidata Japanese Yew

1-2- 37 Hydrangea sp. Hydrangea

1-2- 38 Hydrangea sp. Hydrangea

1-2- 39 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 40 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 41 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 42 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 43 Syringa vulgaris Common Lilac

1-2- 50 Leucothoe sp. Leucothoe

1-2- 51 Mahonia aquifolium Oregon Grape

1-2- 52 Mahonia aquifolium Oregon Grape

3-1- 23 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

3-1- 24 Aesculus x carnea 

'Briotii'

'Briotii' Red 

Horsechestnut

3-1- 31 Platanus occidentalis American Sycamore

3-1- 32 Platanus occidentalis American Sycamore

3-1- 39 Picea sp. Spruce

3-2- 8 Ligustrum sp. Privet

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Drawing sheet has been oriented square to the

 Theodore Roosevelt Home

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 7.5’ 15’ 30’

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

LEGEND

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Property Line

Fence

2-1-61

2-1-62

2-2-2

2-2-3

2-2-4

2-2-5

2-1-63

2-1-58

1-1-65

1-1-99.5

1-1-98

1-1-94

1-1-95

1-1-90

1-1-86

3-1-33

4-1-9

4-1-10

4-2-34

4-2-36–

4-2-42

1-1-98.5

4-2-44 4-2-43

4-1-2

4-1-1

1-1-101.5

1-1-103

1-1-100

1-1-99

BL-2 Rehabilitate Pet Cemetery arbor

VG-7 Replace shrub and vine

planting at Pet Cemetery arbor

CR-7 Designate new loop trail

CR-4 Rehabilitate Service Road trace surface treatment

VG-8 Remove woody vegetation from the Service Road

trace roadbed and banks

CR-2 Construct accessible route to

the Theodore Roosevelt Home 

CR-2 Construct accessible

route to the Theodore

Roosevelt Home 

CR-2 Construct accessible

route to the Theodore

Roosevelt Home 

CR-6 Rehabilitate Macadam Road

surface treatment

BL-8 Preserve culvert,

retaining walls, and

drainage gutters

VG-5 Inspect and repair

lightning protection

Utility

Pole

Treatment Plan

Pet Cemetery

Drawing 10

MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 9 MATCH LINE SEE DRAWING 9

STABLE AND LODGE SITE

GARDENER’S

SHED

Wayside

Bench

Concrete

Gutter

Pet Cemetery Path

Service Road Trace

SSF-2 Preserve Pet Cemetery stone

Wayside

Vehicular

Gate

Macadam

Road

VG-9 Rehabilitate

West Lawn

S a g a m o r e

H i l l R o a d

emaN cifitneicS# DI emaN nommoC ?airetirC cirotsiH steeM

1-1-65 Fagus sylvatica European Beech Y

1-1-86 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1-90 Pinus strobus White Pine Y

1-1-94 Acer platanoides Norway Maple Y

1-1-95 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1-98 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

1-1-98.5 Prunus serotina Black Cherry Y

1-1-99 Acer rubrum Red Maple Y

1-1-99.5 Pinus strobus White Pine

1-1-100 Catalpa speciosa Northern Catalpa Y

1-1-101.5 Betula papyrifera Paper Birch

1-1-103 Acer saccharum Sugar Maple Y

2-1-58 Prunus serotina Black Cherry Y

2-1-61 Quercus (velutina) sp. Black Oak

2-1-62 Quercus (rubra) sp. Red Oak

2-1-63 Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca' Blue Atlas Cedar

2-2-2 Taxus baccata English Yew

2-2-3 Taxus baccata English Yew

2-2-4 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

2-2-5 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

3-1-33 Platanus occidentalis American Sycamore

4-1-1 Quercus alba White Oak Y

4-1-2 Magnolia x soulangiana Saucer Magnolia

4-1-9 Acer platanoides Norway Maple Not evaluated

4-1-10 Pinus strobus White Pine

4-2-34 Spiraea x bumalda 'Anthony Waterer' Anthony Waterer Spirea

4-2-36 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-37 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-38 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-39 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-40 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-41 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-42 Forsythia sp. Forsythia

4-2-43 Ligustrum ovalifolium California Privet

4-2-44 Ligustrum ovalifolium California Privet

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

LEGEND

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site OLMSTED for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Projection: New York State Plane, Long Island Zone,

 NAD 83, US Survey Feet

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 15’ 30’ 60’

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Double-Post Split Rail Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

Contemporary Split Rail Fence

Stockade Fence

Property Line

Existing Inventory

Old Orchard

Drawing 11

Recorded for 1995 Historic Plant

Inventory, Removed 

OLD

ORCHARD

GARAGE

FOREMAN’S

COTTAGE

COLD CELLAR

COW PASTURE

Bench

Irrigation

Box

Bench

Bench

Bench

Bench

Trash

Receptacle

Staff / Handicap

Parking

Wayside

Wayside

Condenser

Light

Fixture

Gate

Light

Fixture

Light

Fixture

Concrete

Cap

Manhole

Transformer

Trail

Sign

Catch

Basin

Hydrant

Vent

Bike

Rack

Bluebird House

Path to Visitor Lot

Woodland Trail

Woodland Trail

Hydrant

Water

Valve

6-1-3

6-1-5

6-1-9

6-1-13

6-1-17

6-1-14

6-1-1

6-1-2

6-1-6

6-1-4

6-1-50 6-1-7 6-1-8

6-1-10 6-1-11 6-1-12

6-1-15

Black

Oak

Oak

Black

Walnut

Vertical

Yew

Common

Pear

Common

Pear Crab Apple

Wisteria

MacIntosh

Apple

Crab Apple

6-1-16

6-1-19

6-1-21

6-1-23

6-1-56 6-1-57

6-1-39

6-1-40

6-1-38

6-1-34

6-1-42

6-1-41

6-1-45 6-1-46

6-1-43

6-1-47

6-1-54

6-1-53

Hinoki

Cypresses

6-1-22

6-1-24

6-1-26 6-1-27

6-1-25

6-1-28 6-1-29

6-1-20

6-1-51

6-1-52

Red Oak

Red Oak

Red Oak

American

Dogwood

English

Hawthorn

Hickory

6-1-55

6-1-49

6-1-49-R 6-1-49-R

6-1-49-R

Red Mulberry

ID # Scientific Name Common Name Meets Historic Criteria?

6-1-1 Malus 'Hubbardston 

Nonsuch'

Hubbardston 

Nonsuch Apple

6-1-2 Malus 'Richards Red' Richards Red Apple

6-1-3 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-

4 Malus pumilaAppleY

6-1-5 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-6 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-7 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-8 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-9 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-10 Malus 'Yellow 

Bellflower'

Yellow Bellflower 

Apple

Y

6-1-11 Malus 'Rome Beaut

y' Rome Beaut

y Apple Y

6-1-12 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-13 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-1

4 Malus pumilaApple

6-1-15 Malus 'Rome Beaut

y' Rome Beaut

y Apple Y

6-1-16 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-17 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-19 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-20 Malus 'Baldwin' Baldwin Apple Y

6-1-21 Malus 'Golden 

Delicious'

Golden Delicious 

Apple

6-1-22 Malus 'Golden 

Delicious'

Golden Delicious 

Apple

Y, semi-dwarf

6-1-23 Malus 'Red Delicious' Red Delicious Apple Y, semi-dwar

f

6-1-24 Malus 'Stark' Stark Apple Y

6-1-25 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-26 Malus 'Smokehouse' Smokehouse Apple Y

6-1-27 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-28 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-29 Malus 'Smokehouse' Smokehouse Apple Y

6-1-3

4 Malus pumilaAppleY

6-1-38 Malus 'Starkin

g' Starkin

g Apple

6-1-39 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-40 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-41 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-42 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-43 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-45

Pyru

s sp. Pea

r

6-1-46 Malus pumilaApple

6-1-47 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-49

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

rY

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-50 Malus 'Red Delicious' Red Delicious Apple

6-1-51 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-52 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-53 Prunu

s sp. Peach

6-1-5

4

Pyrus sp. Pea

rY

6-1-55

Pyru

s sp. Pea

rY

6-1-56 Catalp

a sp. Catal

pa

6-1-57

Pyru

s sp. Pea

r

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

LEGEND

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site OLMSTED for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Projection: New York State Plane, Long Island Zone,

 NAD 83, US Survey Feet

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 15’ 30’ 60’

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Double-Post Split Rail Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

Contemporary Split Rail Fence

Stockade Fence

Property Line

Recorded for 1995 Historic Plant

Inventory, Removed 

Proposed Tree to Remove

Proposed Removals

Old Orchard

Drawing 12

Remove

non-historic

fence

OLD

ORCHARD

GARAGE

FOREMAN’S

COTTAGE

COLD CELLAR

COW PASTURE

Bench

Irrigation

Box

Bench

Bench

Bench

Bench

Trash

Receptacle

Staff / Handicap

Parking

Wayside

Wayside

Condenser

Light

Fixture

Gate

Light

Fixture

Light

Fixture

Concrete

Cap

Manhole

Transformer

Trail

Sign

Catch

Basin

Hydrant

Vent

Bike

Rack

Bluebird House

Path to Visitor Lot

Woodland Trail

Woodland Trail

Hydrant

Water

Valve

6-1-3

6-1-5

6-1-9

6-1-13

6-1-17

6-1-14

6-1-1

6-1-2

6-1-6

6-1-4

6-1-50 6-1-7 6-1-8

6-1-10 6-1-11 6-1-12

6-1-15

Black

Oak

Oak

Black

Walnut

Vertical

Yew

Common

Pear

Common

Pear Crab Apple

Wisteria

MacIntosh

Apple

Crab Apple

6-1-16

6-1-19

6-1-21

6-1-23

6-1-56 6-1-57

6-1-39

6-1-40

6-1-38

6-1-34

6-1-42

6-1-41

6-1-45 6-1-46

6-1-43

6-1-47

6-1-54

6-1-53

Hinoki

Cypresses

6-1-22

6-1-24

6-1-26 6-1-27

6-1-25

6-1-28 6-1-29

6-1-20

6-1-51

6-1-52

Red Oak

Red Oak

Red Oak

American

Dogwood

English

Hawthorn

Hickory

6-1-55

6-1-49

6-1-49-R 6-1-49-R

6-1-49-R

Red Mulberry

ID # Scientific Name Common Name Meets Historic Criteria?

6-1-1 Malus 'Hubbardston 

Nonsuch'

Hubbardston 

Nonsuch Apple

6-1-2 Malus 'Richards Red' Richards Red Apple

6-1-3 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-

4 Malus pumilaAppleY

6-1-5 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-6 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-7 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-8 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-9 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-10 Malus 'Yellow 

Bellflower'

Yellow Bellflower 

Apple

Y

6-1-11 Malus 'Rome Beaut

y' Rome Beaut

y Apple Y

6-1-12 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-13 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-1

4 Malus pumilaApple

6-1-15 Malus 'Rome Beaut

y' Rome Beaut

y Apple Y

6-1-16 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-17 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-19 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-20 Malus 'Baldwin' Baldwin Apple Y

6-1-21 Malus 'Golden 

Delicious'

Golden Delicious 

Apple

6-1-22 Malus 'Golden 

Delicious'

Golden Delicious 

Apple

Y, semi-dwarf

6-1-23 Malus 'Red Delicious' Red Delicious Apple Y, semi-dwar

f

6-1-24 Malus 'Stark' Stark Apple Y

6-1-25 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-26 Malus 'Smokehouse' Smokehouse Apple Y

6-1-27 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-28 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-29 Malus 'Smokehouse' Smokehouse Apple Y

6-1-3

4 Malus pumilaAppleY

6-1-38 Malus 'Starkin

g' Starkin

g Apple

6-1-39 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-40 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-41 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-42 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-43 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-45

Pyru

s sp. Pea

r

6-1-46 Malus pumilaApple

6-1-47 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-49

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

rY

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-49-R

Pyrus 

sp. Pea

r

6-1-50 Malus 'Red Delicious' Red Delicious Apple

6-1-51 Malus 

pumilaApple

6-1-52 Malus 

pumilaAppleY

6-1-53 Prunu

s sp. Peach

6-1-5

4

Pyrus sp. Pea

rY

6-1-55

Pyru

s sp. Pea

rY

6-1-56 Catalp

a sp. Catal

pa

6-1-57

Pyru

s sp. Pea

r

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

LEGEND

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Projection: New York State Plane, Long Island Zone,

 NAD 83, US Survey Feet

2. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 15’ 30’ 60’

Paved Road / Walk

Unpaved Road / Walk

Trail

Double-Post Split Rail Fence

Deciduous Tree

Evergreen Tree

Cultural Landscape Report

Updated Treatment Plan 

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

Contemporary Split Rail Fence

Stockade Fence

Property Line

Proposed Apple / Pear Tree (46 Additions)

OLD

ORCHARD

GARAGE

FOREMAN’S

COTTAGE

COLD CELLAR

COW PASTURE

Bench

Irrigation

Box

Bench

Bench

Bench

Bench

Trash

Receptacle

Staff / Handicap

Parking

Wayside

Wayside

Condenser

Light

Fixture

Gate

Light

Fixture

Light

Fixture

Concrete

Cap

Manhole

Transformer

Trail

Sign

Catch

Basin

Hydrant

Vent

Bike

Rack

Bluebird House

Woodland Trail

Woodland Trail

Hydrant

Water

Valve

6-1-48-R 6-1-50-R

6-1-53-R 6-1-56-R

6-1-78

6-1-77

6-1-79

6-1-80

6-1-81

6-1-57-R

6-1-7-R 6-1-6-R

6-1-5-R

6-1-9-R

Historic access route,

presently not visible 

Remove vegetation to

re-establish historic

boundary between

orchard and woodland

6-1-21-R

6-1-27-R

6-1-28-R

6-1-44-R

6-1-38-R

6-1-32-R

6-1-40-R

6-1-46-R

6-1-47-R

6-1-45-R

6-1-42-R

6-1-41-R

6-1-43-R

6-1-34-R

6-1-19-R

6-1-20 6-1-22-R

6-1-23-R 6-1-25-R

6-1-54

6-1-24

6-1-26

6-1-29

6-1-15-R

6-1-13-R

6-1-10-R 6-1-11-R

6-1-2-R

6-1-8-R

6-1-14-R

6-1-37-R

6-1-51

6-1-52

Proposed Planting

Old Orchard

Re-align stonedust path

6-1-1-R

6-1-3-R

6-1-12-R

6-1-17-R

6-1-18-R

6-1-16-R

Black

Oak

Oak

Black

Walnut

Vertical

Yew

Red Mulberry

Common

Pear

Common

Pear Crab Apple

Wisteria

MacIntosh

Apple

Crab Apple

Hinoki

Cypresses

Red Oak

Red Oak

Red Oak

American

Dogwood

English

Hawthorn

Hickory

6-1-55

6-1-49

(11 Apple / Pear)

Drawing 13

6-1-4

Remove vegetation to

re-establish historic

boundary between

orchard and woodland

Path to Visitor Lot

REFERENCES

155 

REFERENCES 

PUBLISHED BOOKS AND REPORTS 

Bellavia, Regina M., and George W. Curry. Cultural Landscape Report for 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. Vol. 1, Site History, Existing Conditions, 

and Analysis. 1995. Reprint, United States Department of the Interior, 

National Park Service, 2003. 

Bellavia, Regina M., and David L. Uschold. Cultural Landscape Report for 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. Vol. 2, Treatment Recommendations and 

Implementation Plan. United States Department of the Interior, National Park 

Service, March 1998. 

Dolan, Susan A. Fruitful Legacy: A Historic Context of Orchards in the United 

States, with Technical Information for Registering Orchards in the National 

Register of Historic Places. United States Department of the Interior, National 

Park Service, 2009. 

Lee, James J. III. The Farm Buildings at Sagamore Hill: Historic Structures Report, 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. United States Department of the Interior, 

National Park Service, 2007. 

———. The New Barn: Historic Structure Report, Sagamore Hill National Historic 

Site. United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 2005. 

Master Plan for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. Vol. 1, Master Plan 

Narrative. United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 

1963. 

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation. Historic Plant Inventory for the 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site. United States Department of the Interior, 

National Park Service, December 1995. 

———. Landscape Preservation Maintenance Plan Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site. United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 

October 1997. 

———. Orchard Management Plan for Wick Farm Orchard, Morristown National 

Historical Park. United States Department of the Interior, National Park 

Service, September 2007. 

Peterjohn, Bruce. Conceptual Ecological Model for Management of Breeding 

Grassland Birds in the Mid-Atlantic Region. Technical Report 

NPS/NER/NRTR--2006/005. United States Department of the Interior, 

National Park Service, May 2006. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

156 

Roosevelt, Theodore. Theodore Roosevelt An Autobiography. New York: 

MacMillan, 1913. Reprint with new introduction by Elting Morrison. New 

York: Da Capo Press, Inc., 1985. 

Roosevelt, Theodore, Jr. All in the Family. New York: G. P. Putman’s Sons, The 

Knickerbocker Press, 1929. 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site Final General Management Plan Final 

Environmental Impact Statement. United States Department of the Interior, 

National Park Service, 2007. 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site General Management Plan. United States 

Department of the Interior, National Park Service, 2008. 

Skidds, Dennis E. Preliminary Summary of Biological Inventories for Sagamore 

Hill National Historic Site. Northeast Coastal and Barrier Network, University 

of Rhode Island, February 2005. 

Werier, David. Sagamore Hill National Historic Site Invasive Non-native Plant 

Management Plan. Technical Report NPS/NER/NRTR--2006/045. United 

States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, July 2006. 

Wilshin, Francis. Historic Resource Study Historical Base Map Documentation. 

United States Department of the Interior, National Park Service, October 1972. 

PERIODICALS, ARTICLES, UNPUBLISHED REPORTS, AND WEB SITES 

Alden, Robert. “Japanese Premier Opens Game at Yankee Stadium.” New York 

Times, June 24, 1957. 

Chaudhry, Rumika and Margie Coffin Brown. “Cultural Landscape Report 

Treatment Recommendations and Implementation Review Meeting.” Trip 

Report, Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation, 2008. 

“Colonel Roosevelt’s Home. The Much Talked About House at Oyster Bay and 

its’ Occupants.” New York Tribune, October 2, 1900. 

Krugh, Kent B. “Growing Roses in Shade and Shade Tolerant Roses.” A 

Woodland Rose Garden. http://woodlandrosegarden.com/rose/shade1.htm. 

Macknet, Donna and Wayne S. Johnson. Identification and Management of Oxeye 

Daisy. University of Nevada, University of Nevada Cooperative Extension, 

September, 2006. 

Merwin, Ian A. “Some Antique Apples for Modern Orchards.” New York Fruit 

Quarterly 16, no. 4 (2008): 11-17. 

Miller, Marla and Kristin Leahy. “National Register of Historic Places – Sagamore 

Hill National Historic Site” Draft, June 4, 2008. 
REFERENCES

157 

Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program. Mowing Advisory Guidelines in 

Rare Turtle Habitat: Pastures, Successional Fields, and Hayfields. Commonwealth 

of Massachusetts, Division of Fisheries and Wildlife, February 2009. 

Needham, Henry Beach. “Theodore Roosevelt as a Country Gentleman.” The 

Country Calendar. October 1905, 531-35, 579. 

Towne, Gene and Paul D. Ohlenbusch. Native Hay Meadow Management. 

Kansas State University, Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment 

Station and Cooperative Extension Service, July 1992. 

Townsend, A. M., S. E. Bentz, and L. W. Douglass. “Evaluation of 19 American 

Elm Clones for Tolerance to Dutch Elm Disease.” Journal of Environmental 

Horticulture, March 2005, 21-24. 
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE REPORT FOR SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE

158 
159 

Appendix A

Appendix A
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

160
161 

Appendix A
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

162
163 

Appendix A
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

164
165 

Appendix B

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, OYSTER BAY, NY 

Stabilize and Rehabilitate Cultural Landscape 

(PMIS 106918 and 106961) 

 

Project Description 

The objective of this contract is to rehabilitate the West Lawn, North Field, and Southeast Field by 

removing successional vegetation, planting a grass/meadow mixture, and re-installing historic fence lines 

to define the boundaries of the open areas. The contract also includes the removal of eighteen dead and 

declining trees near the Pet Cemetery and Gray Cottage. The purpose of this project is to further the 

park’s goal to stabilize and rehabilitate cultural landscape features in the historic core of Sagamore Hill 

National Historic Site as outlined in the park’s General Management Plan (2008). Sagamore Hill preserves 

and interprets the structures, landscapes, collections, and other cultural resources associated with 

Theodore Roosevelt’s home. During Roosevelt’s ownership of Sagamore Hill (1880-1919), the property’s 

core contained the main house, a working farm with barns, stables, and outbuildings, and agriculture 

fields. This core area was distinct and separate from the outer acreage comprised of woodlands and a 

maritime complex along Cold Spring Harbor. The historic agricultural fields and open character of the core 

landscape have been compromised by successional growth. 

The contract consists of four components: clearing and stump grinding in four areas in the historic core 

(02230); removal of eighteen dead and declining trees (02231); installation of historic fence (02826); and 

hydroseeding of the cleared areas (02926). 

The first component is clearing and stump grinding in four areas totaling 3.04 acres, which have been 

delineated on an attached site map. At the project site, the trees at the edges of the clearing area have 

been wrapped with orange flagging. Trees outside of the clearing area to remain should not be damaged 

in any way and have been wrapped with yellow flagging. Trees in the clearing areas range from under 6 

inches diameter at breast height (dbh) to 48 inches dbh. Each stump will be ground with a stump grinder 

to a depth of 3 inches below grade to ensure minimal ground disturbance. 

The second component is the removal of eighteen individual trees that are dead or in decline in the Pet 

Cemetery and Gray Cottage areas. Of these eighteen trees, seven have a dbh between 6 and 11-inches 

and eleven trees have a dbh between 12 and 17-inches. Each stump will be ground with a stump grinder 

to a depth of 3 inches below grade to ensure minimal ground disturbance. 

The third component specifies the materials, assembly, and installation of 870 linear feet of historic fence. 

The fence lines will be installed along the eastern edge of the Southeast Field, across the center and 

along the side of the North Field, and north of the existing visitor parking lot where the Roosevelt family 

historically maintained a flower and vegetable garden. This component also includes furnishing and 

delivering 50 posts and 75 rails for the park to stockpile for future fence replacement work. 

The fourth component of the contract follows the removals and stump grinding in the 3.04 acre cleared 

areas, which will be hydroseeded with a seed mixture specified in these documents. Immediately after 

hydroseeding, the contractor shall be responsible for maintaining the newly seeded areas for one year as 

specified in these documents. 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

166

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE, OYSTER BAY, NY

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section Number of Pages

DIVISION 2 – SITE CONSTRUCTION

02100 Site Preparation................................................................................................4

02230 Clearing and Stump Grinding...........................................................................6

02231 Selective Tree Removal ...................................................................................6

02826 Double Post Split Rail Fence............................................................................5

02926 Hydroseeding .................................................................................................10
167 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SITE PREPARATION 

02100-1

SECTION 02100 

SITE PREPARATION

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE 

A. The work of this Section consists of all site preparation work and related items as indicated 

on the Drawing entitled “Scope of Work Map, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site” and/or as 

specified herein and includes, but is not limited to, the following: 

1. Tree protection 

2. Site protection 

1.2 EXAMINATION OF SITE AND DOCUMENTS 

A. The following items of related site work are specified and included in other Sections and 

Divisions of the Specifications: 

02230 CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING 

02231 SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL 

02926 HYDROSEEDING 

B. The Contractor shall have a clear understanding of existing conditions of the site before 

submitting his/her bid, and shall be fully responsible for carrying out all site work required to 

execute the work of the Contract fully and properly. 

C. The Contractor shall examine all drawings and all other sections of the specifications for 

requirements therein affecting the work of this trade. 

1.3 DEFINITIONS 

 Standards and Definitions: The following standard(s) as referenced herein are applicable in their 

entirety to work of this Section. 

A. Guide for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000) authored by the Council of Tree and Landscape 

Appraisers.

B. Mid-Atlantic Tree Species Rating Guide developed by the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of 

International Society of Arboriculture. 

C. American National Standard for Tree Care Operations — Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody 

Plant Maintenance — Standard Practices (Management of Trees and Shrubs During Site 

Planning, Site Development, and Construction). ANSI A300 (Part 5).

1.4 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS 

A. An experienced Crew Supervisor(s) shall be present at all times work is being performed. 

Said experienced supervisor(s) must have verifiable work experience as a full time direct 

supervisor of shade tree maintenance. 

B. All tree workers shall abide by any code of ethics or professional conduct established by the 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

168

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SITE PREPARATION 

02100-2

Tree Care Industry Association and the International Society of Arboriculture. 

1.5 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS 

A. All equipment must meet all federal OSHA, state and local safety requirements and must 

be properly licensed. This includes equipment such as bucket trucks, aerial lifts, chipper 

trucks, wood trucks, stump grinders etc. which may be needed to correctly perform tree 

care operations in accordance with the specifications stated herein. 

1.6 CARE AND PROTECTION 

A. Protection of Existing Facilities: 

1. Provide protection necessary to prevent damage to existing features indicated to 

remain including existing structures, historic earthworks, vegetation, walkways, 

utilities and other landscape features. The contractor shall also be responsible for 

special care of materials temporarily removed and stored before their replacement. 

2. Protect facilities on adjoining properties and on the Sagamore Hill National Historic 

Site property. 

3. Restore damaged facilities to their original condition, acceptable to parties having 

jurisdiction.

B. Adjoining Property: Confine all operations to the property of the Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site. Protect abutting properties from construction activities at all times. 

DUE TO THE FRAGILE NATURE OF THIS HISTORIC LANDSCAPE, HEAVY 

EQUIPMENT WILL NOT BE PERMITTED BEYOND THE EXISTING ROADS AND 

DRIVES, AND DESIGNATED ACCESS ROUTES AND WORK AREAS UNLESS 

SPECIFICALLY DIRECTED BY THE CONTRACTING OFFICER (CO). 

1.7 SCHEDULING AND COORDINATION 

A. The Contractor shall submit a progress schedule for approval by the CO. 

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

NOT USED 
169 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SITE PREPARATION 

02100-3

PART 3 - EXECUTION

3.1 TREES AND SHRUBS - GENERAL 

A. Before any work is done, the Contractor shall arrange a conference on the site with the 

Contracting Officer to identify trees and shrubs which are to be protected. 

B. The contractor shall preserve and protect all existing vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and 

grass areas which do not reasonably interfere with work for the length of the construction 

period, including liability for all damages as specified herein. The contractor shall be 

responsible for all unauthorized cutting or damage to trees and shrubs, including damage due 

to careless operation of equipment, stockpiling of materials or tracking of grass and other 

surfaced areas by equipment. Such damaged areas or materials shall be restored, repaired 

or replaced by the contractor, as directed by the CO, at no additional cost to the Government. 

The placement of protection devices additional to those specified, shall, however, be at the 

Contractor's discretion.

3.2 TREE AND SHRUB PROTECTION 

A. The contractor shall not damage plants to remain by burning, by pumping of water, by cutting 

of live roots or branches, or by any other means unless directed by the Contracting Officer. 

No plants to be saved shall be used for crane stays, guys, or other fastenings. Vehicles shall 

not be parked where damage may result to trees or shrubs. Construction materials shall not 

be stored beneath trees or shrubs. If live roots must be cut, the cuts shall be made with a 

sharp pruning tool to avoid torn or jagged roots. 

B. The Contractor shall be liable for all damage and/or disturbance to existing trees and shrubs. 

Actual charges for damage to plants shall be in accordance with the schedules defined 

herein, with assessed charges to be deducted from sums payable under the Construction 

Contract.

1. Damage which, in the CO’s opinion, can be remedied by corrective maintenance 

shall be repaired immediately. 

2. Trees or shrubs which are damaged irreparably shall, at the CO’s discretion, be 

replaced by the Contractor with new trees or shrubs of the same type. The 

replacement tree or shrub size shall be determined by the CO and shall not exceed 

the existing tree or shrub size.

3. Irreversible damage to the tree(s) will be subject to liquidated damages at the current 

value for a cross sectional square inch of diameter at breast height (dbh) in accordance

with the Guide for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000) authored by the Council of Tree 

and Landscape Appraisers and the Mid-Atlantic Tree Species Rating Guide

developed by the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of International Society of Arboriculture. The 

2000 value is $42.50 per cross sectional square inch putting a base value for a 32-

inch “specimen” elm at $34,600. 

4. Damaged trees or shrubs which require removal and/or replacement shall be 

removed according to the Specification requirements for removals, including refilling 

and repair of ground surface, with such costs to be borne by the Contractor in 

addition to assessed charges described herein. 
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SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SITE PREPARATION 

02100-4

C. Work of pruning, fertilizing, spraying, and similar activities shall be undertaken only by 

certified arborists and State of New York certified chemical applicators, pertinent to the work 

being performed.

3.3 REMOVALS - GENERAL 

A. Prior to undertaking any tree removals called for, the Contractor shall undertake a detailed 

review of existing conditions at the site with the CO to confirm the full extent of work to be 

performed. Contractor shall coordinate removals with the phasing plans and with all other 

subcontractors and Trades and the removals of other Work included as part of the Work of 

these Specifications. The CO and Contractor will identify a designated access route to each 

work area for heavy equipment and a designated work area for heavy equipment.

B. The Contractor shall not permit heavy equipment or vehicles or the stock piling of heavy 

materials in the desired root protection area. The root protection area is defined as an area 

equal to a radius of 1.5 feet for each inch of diameter at breast height (dbh) (ie: a 10 inch dbh 

tree will require protection 15 feet from the main trunk in all directions). Limited activity of this 

sort may take place with the expressed permission of the CO in areas determined to be safe 

from excessive damage, however, under no conditions shall this activity take place within the 

root protection area without mitigation to protect the tree trunk and roots. If construction 

activities are to take place within the desired root protection area, prior to any construction, 

tree trunks must be protected with chain link fence and the entire root protection area covered 

with double layered plywood, AlturnaMats® or similar, or a geotextile fabric and mulched with 

a minimum of 4-5 inches of wood chips. Pruning, fertilization, aeration, and irrigation may 

also be required if directed by the CO. Any damage resulting from such practices shall be 

made good to the satisfaction of and without additional expense to the Government. 

C. The Contractor will be held responsible for any damages to, and for maintenance and 

protection of existing utilities and structures. All areas and existing improvements designated 

for demolition and removal shall be protected from unauthorized damage or disturbance of 

any type as a result of demolition and removal work. The Contractor shall be liable for the full 

restitution and repair of areas which become disturbed or damaged due to negligence or to 

failure on the Contractor's part to understand the precise limits of work required. 

D. All items designated for removal shall be cut and ground with a stump grinder to the depth 

indicated in these Specifications. Cut vegetation shall be removed from the site, and legally 

disposed of. 

E. The Contractor will be required to furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for daily cleanup 

and restoration of all disturbed areas or features which have been damaged during the 

course of this contract. If so directed by the CO, the Contractor shall be prepared to sweep 

and wash paved surfaces daily or as needed. 

END OF SECTION
171 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING

02230-1 

SECTION 02230 

CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING 

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE 

A. The work of this section consists of clearing, removing and disposing of trees, understory 

vegetation, and debris in four areas that total 3.04 acres; and stump grinding all stumps 

to a depth of three inches below grade to ensure minimal ground disturbance. 

B. The contractor shall not subcontract any work required by this contract without the 

express written approval of the Contracting Officer (CO). If the CO approves the 

Contractor to subcontract any part of the work required under this contract, a copy of any 

such subcontract shall be provided to the CO. 

1.2 EXAMINATON OF SITE AND DOCUMENTS 

A. The following items of related site work are specified and included in other Sections and 

Divisions of the Specifications: 

02100 SITE PREPARATION 

02231 SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL 

02926 HYDROSEEDING 

B. The Contractor shall have a clear understanding of existing conditions of the site before 

submitting his/her bid, and shall be fully responsible for carrying out all site work required 

to execute the work of the Contract fully and properly. 

C. Examine Drawing, “Scope of Work Map, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site” for 

designated areas to be cleared, labeled areas #1, #2, #3 and #4 and all other Sections of 

the Specifications for requirements therein affecting the work of this trade. 

1.3 DEFINITIONS 

 Standards and Definitions: The following standard(s) as referenced herein are applicable in their 

entirety to work of this Section. 

A. Guide for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000) authored by the Council of Tree and 

Landscape Appraisers. 

B. Mid-Atlantic Tree Species Rating Guide developed by the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of 

International Society of Arboriculture. 

C. American National Standard for Tree Care Operations — Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody 

Plant Maintenance — Standard Practices (Management of Trees and Shrubs During Site 

Planning, Site Development, and Construction). ANSI A300 (Part 5).

1.4 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS 

A. An experienced Crew Supervisor(s) shall be present at all times work is being performed. 

Said experienced supervisor(s) must have verifiable work experience as a full time direct 

supervisor of shade tree maintenance and felling work crews. 
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B. All tree workers shall, through related training and on the job experience, be familiar with 

the technical aspects and hazards of tree maintenance work and equipment used in such 

operations. All tree workers shall abide by any code of ethics or professional conduct 

established by the Tree Care Industry Association and the International Society of 

Arboriculture. 

1.5 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS 

A. All equipment must meet all federal OSHA, state and local safety requirements and must 

be properly licensed. This includes equipment such as bucket trucks, aerial lifts, chipper 

trucks, wood trucks, stump grinders etc. which may be needed to correctly perform tree 

care operations in accordance with the specifications stated herein. 

1.6 CARE AND PROTECTION 

A. Protection of Existing Facilities: 

1. The Contractor shall be responsible for special care in moving materials and 

equipment and for providing protection necessary to prevent damage to existing 

features indicated to remain including existing structures, historic earthworks, 

vegetation, walkways, utilities and other landscape features. The contractor shall 

also be responsible for special care of materials temporarily removed and stored 

before their replacement. 

2. Protect facilities on adjoining properties and on the Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site property. 

3. Restore damaged facilities to their original condition, acceptable to parties having 

jurisdiction. 

B. Adjoining Property: Confine all operations to the property of the Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site. Protect abutting properties from construction activities at all times. 

DUE TO THE FRAGILE NATURE OF THIS HISTORIC LANDSCAPE, HEAVY 

EQUIPMENT WILL NOT BE PERMITTED BEYOND THE EXISTING ROADS AND 

DRIVES, AND DESIGNATED ACCESS ROUTES AND WORK AREAS UNLESS 

SPECIFICALLY DIRECTED BY THE CONTRACTING OFFICER. 

1.7 SCHEDULING AND COORDINATION 

A. Prior to commencing work the contractor is responsible for inspecting all affected trees to 

ensure that the prescribed work is in accordance with the scope of the specifications 

stated herein and unit prices of the contract bid schedule. 

B. The NPS shall hold a contractors meeting on ___________________ from ____ to ____ 

 to allow perspective bidders to view the scope of work and have any questions 

pertaining to the contract answered. 

C. The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) will be responsible for acting on behalf 

of the Contracting Officer on all matters of work within the scope of the contract. Approval 
173 

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02230-3 

of work beyond the scope of the contract (i.e.: wound treatment, technical removals 

requiring the use of a crane, etc.) is reserved for the Contracting Officer. The contractor 

is responsible for notifying the COR in writing of all work that is beyond the scope of the 

contract and include a proposal for performing the prescribed work that includes a 

breakdown with unit prices for labor, materials, and equipment required to ensure that 

the work can be completed safely and in accordance with industry standards. The COR 

will evaluate the proposal and if valid will seek approval from the Contracting Officer. 

Failure of the contractor to obtain the approval of the Contracting Officer for work beyond 

the scope of the contract will release the government from any obligation to pay for 

services claimed. 

D. The contractor shall commence work at a time that is beneficial for both the contractor 

and COR upon receipt of delivery order. Work shall commence and be completed during 

a period of time between _________ and _________. Work shall be performed during 

the hours of ____ a.m. and ____ p.m., Monday through Friday, Federal holidays 

excluded, unless authorized in writing by the COR. 

E. The Contractor shall submit a progress schedule for approval by the COR. 

F. Work shall be scheduled and arranged so as not to interfere with normal activities of the 

park. Advanced notice will be given to the contractor if a conflict is expected. Any plant 

debris, personnel or equipment that would interfere with an activity or event shall be 

removed prior to the activity. 

G. Once work begins the contractor is expected to be on the job site each day in which 

weather conditions are favorable as determined by the COR or designated park 

representative. 

H. If, at any time, the COR determines that the work is unsatisfactory or being conducted in 

an unsafe manner, the contractor will be notified and shall immediately cease all work 

activities. 

1.8 SAFETY 

 

A. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with ANSI Z133.1-2006 Safety 

Requirements for Pruning, Trimming, Repairing, Maintaining and Removing Trees and 

Cutting Brush and all federal OSHA, state and local safety requirements. 

1.9 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES 

A. The contractor shall provide a safe and healthful workplace for all employees while at 

Sagamore Hill NHS. 

 

B. The contractor shall provide a level of public safety, proportionate with exposure, while 

working at Sagamore Hill NHS. 

C. The contractor shall comply in rectifying all unsafe or unhealthy conditions called to 

his/her attention by the Contracting Officer or COR. 

 

D. The contractor shall allow for formal and informal, announced and unannounced safety 

inspections at the worksite. 

1.10 WORK AREA 

A. Contractor shall confine his work, the storage of materials and equipment, the parking of 

vehicles, and all other operations in connection with this contract to the specified hours 
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and work areas approved by the COR. The Contractor shall not permit heavy equipment 

or vehicles or the stock piling of heavy materials off hard surface roads without the 

expressed permission of the COR. 

1.11 CLEANUP, RESTORATION, AND DISPOSAL OF DEBRIS 

A. The contractor will be required to furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for daily 

cleanup and restoration of all disturbed areas or features, which have been damaged 

during the course of this contract. 

B. All waste, rubble, and other debris created by clearing and stump grinding work shall be 

disposed of at an approved rubbish disposal area away from the National Park Service's 

property. All disposal fees shall be paid by the Contractor. 

C. No material shall be disposed of by burning. 

D. Materials shall be entirely removed and disposed of off site. Such material shall not be 

deposited in rivers, streams, or other bodies of water. If the material is to be wasted, 

then it shall be disposed of at an approved dump or other approved location. 

1.12 RESPONSIBILITY REGARDING EXISTING STRUCTURES, UTILITIES, EXISTING PLANT 

MATERIAL, AND OTHER LANDSCAPE FEATURES 

A. The contractor will be held responsible for any damages to, and for maintenance and 

protection of existing structures. Contractor shall repair or replace any damage resulting 

in connection with work under this contract or as a result of operations there under. 

Materials and methods shall conform to the current standards for the area damaged, 

match existing on-site materials, shall meet the approval the approval of all cognizant 

officials and the COR. All damaged areas shall make smooth, satisfactory, and 

imperceptible transitions to existing adjacent work, and shall be performed without 

additional expense to the NPS. 

B. The contractor will be held responsible for any damages to, and for maintenance and 

protection of existing utilities. 

C. The contractor shall preserve and protect all existing vegetation such as trees, shrubs, 

and grass areas on or adjacent to trees being pruned or removed which do not 

reasonably interfere with work. The contractor shall be responsible for all unauthorized 

cutting or damage to trees and shrubs, including damage due to careless operation of 

equipment, stockpiling of materials or tracking of grass and other surfaced areas by 

equipment. Such damaged areas or materials shall be restored, repaired or replaced by 

the contractor, as directed by the COR, at no additional cost to the Government. 

Unauthorized cutting or damage to trees will be subject to liquidated damages in 

accordance with the Guide for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000). 

1.13 MONETARY ADJUSTMENTS FOR INADEQUATE PERFORMANCE 

A. It is mutually agreed that failure to satisfactorily accomplish work in accordance with the 

specifications and provisions stated herein when due to the fault of the contractor, shall 

constitute a deficiency under this contract. All work will be regularly inspected by the 

COR and any deficiencies will be reported in writing to the contractor. Corrective action 

by the contractor shall be taken promptly and the work satisfactorily accomplished. 

Deficiencies in daily tasks shall be completed within the day the deficiency is noted. The 

Contracting Officer will make the sole determination as to the existence of a deficiency in 

performance, the corrective action(s) to be taken, and the timeliness of deficiency 

correction. If deficiencies are not corrected in a satisfactory and timely manner, work will 
175 

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SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING

02230-5 

not be accepted for payment and/or a monetary deduction will be made. Irreversible 

damage to the tree(s) will be subject to liquidated damages in accordance with the Guide 

for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000) authored by the council of Tree and Landscape 

Appraisers. The 2000 value is $42.50 per cross sectional square inch putting a base 

value for a 32 inch “specimen” elm at $34,600. 

1.14 FIRE HAZARD 

A. The Contractor shall not allow trash or debris to accumulate about the work site. No 

trash may be burned on the site. Fire safety precautions must be observed at all times 

when working near existing buildings. Portable fire extinguishers must be present at 

points of hazardous work. All Federal, state, and/or city codes or requirements 

pertaining to trash disposal must be observed. 

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

2.1 BACKFILL MATERIAL 

A. Backfill material shall be imported topsoil as specified in Section 02926 

HYDROSEEDING. 

PART 3 - EXECUTION

3.1 PROTECTION OF EXISTING TREES AND PLANTS TO REMAIN 

A. Protection of existing trees and plants to remain shall be as specified in Section 02100 

SITE PREPARATION. 

3.2 CLEARING 

A. Remove all trees, brush, and vegetation from areas designated to be cleared marked 

with orange flagging tape. As directed by the Contracting Officer, prune unsound, or 

unsightly branches on trees and shrubs designated to remain along edge of cleared 

area. Make cuts flush with trunk or branch. Pruning work shall be in accordance with the 

American National Standard for Arboricultural Operations – Pruning, Repairing, 

Maintaining and Removing Trees and Cutting Brush – Safety Requirements ANSI 

Z133.1-2000.

3.3 STUMP GRINDING 

A. Remove all stumps, roots, and debris a minimum of 3 inches below original ground using 

a stump grinder. Grubbing with a backhoe is not acceptable. Use hand methods for 

grubbing stumps of shrubs and vines with stumps less than 4” diameter to a depth of 3” 

below grade that are within the drip line of trees to remain, also referred to as the root 

protection area in Site Preparation (02100, Section 3.3, B). For tree stumps greater than 

4” in diameter and within the drip line of the trees to remain, the Contractor will seek 

approval from the CO before using a stump grinder inside the drip line area. Fill stump 

and root holes as specified in Section 02926 HYDROSEEDING. 

3.4 DISPOSAL 

A. Dispose of debris and excess material at an approved rubbish disposal area away from 

the National Park Service's property. All disposal fees shall be paid by the Contractor. 
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PART 4 - MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT

4.1 CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING 

A. Measurement will be the number of acres, to the nearest 0.01 acre, of the area to be 

cleared and stumps to be ground with a stump grinder within the limits shown on the map 

specified above on site. The trees at the edges of the clearing area for removal have 

been marked with orange flagging tape. The trees outside of the clearing area to remain 

should not be damaged and are marked with yellow flagging tape. No deduction will be 

made for clear areas within the designated limits. Payment will be made at the contract 

unit price. 

END OF SECTION 
177 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL

02231-1

SECTION 02231 

SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE 

A. The Contractor shall furnish all equipment and sufficient personnel for removal of 

eighteen trees and stump grinding in locations identified as #5 and #6 on the Drawing 

entitled “Scope of Work Map, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site” as in accordance with 

the bid schedule and specifications stated herein. Any items not specifically noted, but 

necessary for performance in accordance with accepted tree industry standards, shall be 

furnished under this contract. 

B. The trees are located adjacent to developed areas containing high densities of 

pedestrians, vehicles, utilities, and structures. 

C. The contractor shall not subcontract any work required by this contract without the 

express written approval of the Contracting Officer (CO). If the CO approves the 

Contractor to subcontract any part of the work required under this contract, a copy of any 

such subcontract shall be provided to the CO. 

1.2 EXAMINATON OF SITE AND DOCUMENTS 

A. The following items of related site work are specified and included in other Sections and 

Divisions of the Specifications: 

02100 SITE PREPARATION 

02230 CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING 

B. The Contractor shall have a clear understanding of existing conditions of the site before 

submitting his/her bid, and shall be fully responsible for carrying out all site work required 

to execute the work of the Contract fully and properly. 

C. Examine Drawing, “Scope of Work Map, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site” for 

locations of trees to be removed, labeled areas #5 and #6 and all other Sections of the 

Specifications for requirements therein affecting the work of this trade. 

1.3 DEFINITIONS 

 Standards and Definitions: The following standard(s) as referenced herein are applicable in their 

entirety to work of this Section. 

A. Guide for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000) authored by the Council of Tree and 

Landscape Appraisers. 

B. Mid-Atlantic Tree Species Rating Guide developed by the Mid-Atlantic Chapter of 

International Society of Arboriculture. 

C. American National Standard for Tree Care Operations — Tree, Shrub, and Other Woody 

Plant Maintenance — Standard Practices (Management of Trees and Shrubs During Site 

Planning, Site Development, and Construction). ANSI A300 (Part 5).
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SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL

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1.4 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

A. An experienced Crew Supervisor(s) shall be present at all times work is being performed. 

Said experienced supervisor(s) must have verifiable work experience as a full time direct 

supervisor of shade tree maintenance and felling work crews. 

B. All tree workers shall, through related training and on the job experience, be familiar with 

the technical aspects and hazards of tree maintenance work and equipment used in such 

operations. All tree workers shall abide by any code of ethics or professional conduct 

established by the Tree Care Industry Association and the International Society of 

Arboriculture. 

1.5 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS 

A. All equipment must meet all federal OSHA, state and local safety requirements and must 

be properly licensed. This includes equipment such as bucket trucks, aerial lifts, chipper 

trucks, wood trucks, stump grinders etc. which may be needed to correctly perform tree 

care operations in accordance with the specifications stated herein. 

1.6 CARE AND PROTECTION 

A. Protection of Existing Facilities: 

1. The Contractor shall be responsible for special care in moving materials and 

equipment and for providing protection necessary to prevent damage to existing 

features indicated to remain including existing structures, historic earthworks, 

vegetation, walkways, utilities and other landscape features. The contractor shall 

also be responsible for special care of materials temporarily removed and stored 

before their replacement. 

2. Protect facilities on adjoining properties and on the Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site property. 

3. Restore damaged facilities to their original condition, acceptable to parties having 

jurisdiction.

B. Adjoining Property: Confine all operations to the property of the Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site. Protect abutting properties from construction activities at all times. 

DUE TO THE FRAGILE NATURE OF THIS HISTORIC LANDSCAPE, HEAVY 

EQUIPMENT WILL NOT BE PERMITTED BEYOND THE EXISTING ROADS AND 

DRIVES, AND DESIGNATED ACCESS ROUTES AND WORK AREAS UNLESS 

SPECIFICALLY DIRECTED BY THE CONTRACTING OFFICER. 

1.7 SCHEDULING AND COORDINATION 

A. Prior to commencing work the contractor is responsible for inspecting all affected trees to 

ensure that the prescribed work is in accordance with the scope of the specifications 

stated herein and unit prices of the contract bid schedule. 

B. The NPS shall hold a contractors meeting on ___________________ from ____ to ____ 
179 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL

02231-3

to allow perspective bidders to view the scope of work and have any questions pertaining 

to the contract answered. 

C. The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) will be responsible for acting on behalf of 

the Contracting Officer on all matters of work within the scope of the contract. Approval of 

work beyond the scope of the contract (i.e.: wound treatment, technical removals 

requiring the use of a crane, etc.) is reserved for the Contracting Officer. The contractor is 

responsible for notifying the COR in writing all work that is beyond the scope of the 

contract and include a proposal for performing the prescribed work that includes a 

breakdown with unit prices for labor, materials, and equipment required to ensure that the 

work can be completed safely and in accordance with industry standards. The COR will 

evaluate the proposal and if valid will seek approval from the Contracting Officer. Failure 

of the contractor to obtain the approval of the Contracting Officer for work beyond the 

scope of the contract will release the government from any obligation to pay for services 

claimed. 

D. The contractor shall commence work at a time that is beneficial for both the contractor 

and COR upon receipt of delivery order. Work shall commence and be completed during 

a period of time between _________ and _________. Work shall be performed during 

the hours of ____ a.m. and ____ p.m., Monday through Friday, Federal holidays 

excluded, unless authorized in writing by the COR. 

E. The Contractor shall submit a progress schedule for approval by the COR. 

F. Work shall be scheduled and arranged so as not to interfere with normal activities of the 

park. Advanced notice will be given to the contractor if a conflict is expected. Any plant 

debris, personnel or equipment that would interfere with an activity or event shall be 

removed prior to the activity. 

G. Once work begins the contractor is expected to be on the job site each day in which 

weather conditions are favorable as determined by the COR or designated park 

representative. 

H. If, at any time, the COR determines that the work is unsatisfactory or being conducted in 

an unsafe manner, the contractor will be notified and shall immediately cease all work 

activities. 

1.8 REPORTS 

A. The contractor shall note and report to the CO in writing the presence of any structural 

weakness, girdling roots, disease conditions, decayed trunk or branches, and split 

crotches or branches or any other hazardous condition that has the potential for personal 

injury or damage to property, that can not be corrected within the scope of work 

described herein. 

1.9 SAFETY 

A. All operations shall be conducted in accordance with ANSI Z133.1-2006 Safety 

Requirements for Pruning, Trimming, Repairing, Maintaining and Removing Trees and 

Cutting Brush and all federal OSHA, state and local safety requirements. 

1.10 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES 

A. The contractor shall provide a safe and healthful workplace for all employees while at 

Sagamore Hill NHS. 
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02231-4

B. The contractor shall provide a level of public safety, proportionate with exposure, while 

working at Sagamore Hill NHS. 

C. The contractor shall comply in rectifying all unsafe or unhealthy conditions called to 

his/her attention by the Contracting Officer or COR. 

D. The contractor shall allow for formal and informal, announced and unannounced safety 

inspections at the worksite. 

1.11 WORK AREA 

A. Contractor shall confine his work, the storage of materials and equipment, the parking of 

vehicles, and all other operations in connection with this contract to the specified hours 

and work areas approved by the COR. The Contractor shall not permit heavy equipment 

or vehicles or the stock piling of heavy materials off hard surface roads without the 

expressed permission of the COR. 

1.12 CLEANUP AND RESTORATION 

A. The contractor will be required to furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for daily 

cleanup and restoration of all disturbed areas or features, which have been damaged 

during the course of this contract. 

1.13 RESPONSIBILITY REGARDING EXISTING STRUCTURES, UTILITIES, EXISTING PLANT 

MATERIAL, AND OTHER LANDSCAPE FEATURES 

A. The contractor will be held responsible for any damages to, and for maintenance and 

protection of existing structures. Contractor shall repair or replace any damage resulting 

in connection with work under this contract or as a result of operations there under. 

Materials and methods shall conform to the current standards for the area damaged, 

match existing on-site materials, shall meet the approval the approval of all cognizant 

officials and the COR. All damaged areas shall make smooth, satisfactory, and 

imperceptible transitions to existing adjacent work, and shall be performed without 

additional expense to the NPS. 

B. The contractor will be held responsible for any damages to, and for maintenance and 

protection of existing utilities. 

C. The contractor shall preserve and protect all existing vegetation such as trees, shrubs, 

and grass areas on or adjacent to trees being pruned or removed which do not 

reasonably interfere with work. The contractor shall be responsible for all unauthorized 

cutting or damage to trees and shrubs, including damage due to careless operation of 

equipment, stockpiling of materials or tracking of grass and other surfaced areas by 

equipment. Such damaged areas or materials shall be restored, repaired or replaced by 

the contractor, as directed by the COR, at no additional cost to the Government. 

Unauthorized cutting or damage to trees will be subject to liquidated damages in 

accordance with the Guide for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000). 

1.14 MONETARY ADJUSTMENTS FOR INADEQUATE PERFORMANCE 

A. It is mutually agreed that failure to satisfactorily accomplish work in accordance with the 

specifications and provisions stated herein when due to the fault of the contractor, shall 

constitute a deficiency under this contract. All work will be regularly inspected by the 

COR and any deficiencies will be reported in writing to the contractor. Corrective action 

by the contractor shall be taken promptly and the work satisfactorily accomplished. 

Deficiencies in daily tasks shall be completed within the day the deficiency is noted. The 
181 

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SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL

02231-5

Contracting Officer will make the sole determination as to the existence of a deficiency in 

performance, the corrective action(s) to be taken, and the timeliness of deficiency 

correction. If deficiencies are not corrected in a satisfactory and timely manner, work will 

not be accepted for payment and/or a monetary deduction will be made. Irreversible 

damage to the tree(s) will be subject to liquidated damages in accordance with the Guide 

for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000) authored by the council of Tree and Landscape 

Appraisers. The 2000 value is $42.50 per cross sectional square inch putting a base 

value for a 32 inch “specimen” elm at $34,600. 

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

NOT USED 

PART 3 - EXECUTION

3.1 REMOVALS 

A. The work to be performed under this section shall include removing trees in accordance 

with the American National Standard for Arboricultural Operations – Pruning, Repairing, 

Maintaining and Removing Trees and Cutting Brush – Safety Requirements ANSI 

Z133.1-2000.

3.2 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 

A. For trees specified to have all wood, chips and debris removed, the contractor shall, on 

the same day the tree is removed, chip all materials and remove all remaining wood and 

debris from the park and dispose of legally off site, unless approved otherwise by the 

COR. Removal from the park and disposal is the responsibility of the contractor. There 

shall be no sale of wood on government property. 

B. The contractor shall take all reasonable precautions to avoid damaging surrounding 

vegetation or lawn areas and prevent gouging and erosion of soils as a result of tree 

removal operations. 

3.3 EXECUTION 

A. Trees shall be felled only when there is an adequate felling area at least equal in radius 

to the height of the tree.

B. Trees that can not be felled due to proximity of the roadways, buildings, structures, 

utilities, and/or lack of an adequate felling area shall be topped and/or sectioned. 

C. The contractor is responsible for taking all precautions to ensure that the tree will fall 

where desired. If a tree can not be felled safely in one piece, the tree shall be topped 

and/or sectioned. 

D. All stumps shall be cut to a height not to exceed 2” from grade unless directed otherwise 

by the COR. Stumps shall then be ground as specified below. 

3.4 STUMP REMOVAL 

 

A. Stumps of trees indicated for removal shall be ground with a stump grinder to a depth of 

3 inches below grade with the depression shall be refilled with the waste material. 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

182

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL

02231-6

PART 4 - ACCEPTANCE, MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT

4.1 ACCEPTANCE 

A. The contractor shall submit an invoice for payment at the completion of the work. The 

COR will sign the invoice certifying that all work performed conforms to contract 

requirements. The signed invoice will then be forwarded to the CO for payment 

processing. 

4.2 MEASUREMENT / VERIFICATION OF QUANTITIES 

A. Removals: Shall be based on individual trees measured by the diameter at breast height 

(dbh) and the type of removal in accordance with the bid schedule and specifications. 

B. Stump Grinding: Shall be based on individual trees measured by the diameter at breast 

height (dbh) in accordance with the bid schedule and specifications. In the absence of the 

tree, the stump size shall be the diameter of the cut wood surface measured across the 

narrowest portion. 

TREE MAINTENANCE BID SCHEDULE 

Item Size Quantity Unit Price Total 

A. REMOVALS 

REMOVE AND DISPOSE OF ALL WOOD, CHIPS AND DEBRIS

1. 6 – 11” DBH (b. locust, N. maple) 7 X ________ ________ 

2. 12 – 17” DBH (birch, cherry, fir) 11 X ________ ________ 

TOTAL REMOVAL _________ 

B. STUMP GRINDING/REMOVAL 

1. 6 – 11” Across the Narrowest 7 X ________ ________ 

 Portion 

2. 12 – 17” Across the Narrowest 11 X ________ ________ 

 Portion 

 TOTAL STUMP GRINDING __________ 

 TOTAL FOR TREE MAINTENANCE (Bid Items A-B) __________ 

END OF SECTION 
183 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE DOUBLE POST SPLIT RAIL FENCE 

02826-1

SECTION 02826 

DOUBLE POST SPLIT RAIL FENCE

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE: 

A. The work of this section consists of furnishing and installing 870 linear feet of split rail fencing 

and furnishing and delivering 50 posts and 75 rails for the park to stockpile for future fence 

replacement as shown on Drawing entitled “Fence Details, Sagamore Hill National Historic 

Site” in locations identified as Areas A, B, C and D on Drawing entitled “Scope of Work Map, 

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site” as in accordance with the bid schedule and 

specifications stated herein. 

B. The contractor shall not subcontract any work required by this contract without the express 

written approval of the Contracting Officer (CO). If the CO approves the Contractor to 

subcontract any part of the work required under this contract, a copy of any such subcontract 

shall be provided to the CO. 

1.2 EXAMINATION OF SITE AND DOCUMENTS 

A. The following items of related work are specified and included in other Sections of the 

Specifications: 

02100 SITE PREPARATION 

02230 CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING 

02926 HYDROSEEDING 

B. Examine Drawings, “Fence Details” and “Scope of Work Map, Sagamore Hill National 

Historic Site” for designated areas for fence installation, labeled areas A, B, C and D and all 

other Sections of the Specifications for requirements therein affecting the work of this trade. 

1.3 SAMPLES AND SUBMITTALS 

A. At least thirty (30) days prior to intended use, the Contractor shall provide the following 

samples and submittals for approval. All samples, if approved may be incorporated into the 

final work. Do not order materials until approval of samples, certifications, or test results has 

been obtained. Delivered materials shall closely match the approved samples. 

1. Material Sample: 

a. Black locust posts 

b. Black locust rails 

2. Provide one sample panel of the double post split rail fence, including two sets of 

posts complete in place. 

1.4 PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS 

A. An experienced Crew Supervisor(s) shall be present at all times work is being performed. 

Said experienced supervisor(s) must have verifiable work experience as a supervisor of 

fence installation work crews. 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

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SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE DOUBLE POST SPLIT RAIL FENCE 

02826-2

1.5 SCHEDULING AND COORDINATION 

A. The Contracting Officer’s Representative (COR) will be responsible for acting on behalf of 

the Contracting Officer on all matters of work within the scope of the contract. Approval of 

work beyond the scope of the contract is reserved for the Contracting Officer. The 

contractor is responsible for notifying the COR in writing all work that is beyond the scope 

of the contract and include a proposal for performing the prescribed work that includes a 

breakdown with unit prices for labor, materials, and equipment required to ensure that the 

work can be completed safely and in accordance with industry standards. The COR will 

evaluate the proposal and if valid will seek approval from the Contracting Officer. Failure 

of the contractor to obtain the approval of the Contracting Officer for work beyond the 

scope of the contract will release the government from any obligation to pay for services 

claimed. 

B. The contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer (CO) 48 hours prior to beginning any 

work on a delivery order. Work shall be performed between the hours of _____ a.m. and 

_____ p.m. Monday through Friday, legal holidays excluded, unless authorized in writing 

by the CO. 

C. Work shall be scheduled and arranged so as not to interfere with normal activities of the 

park. Advanced notice will be given to the contractor if a conflict is expected. Any plant 

debris, personnel, or equipment that would interfere with an activity or event shall be 

removed prior to the activity. 

D. Once work begins the contractor is expected to be on the job site each day in which 

weather conditions are favorable as determined by the COR or designated park 

representative. 

E. All work within a designated area as specified on the delivery order shall be completed, 

inspected, and accepted in accordance with the procedures stated herein before 

beginning work in another area. 

F. If, at any time, the CO determines that the work is unsatisfactory or being conducted in an 

unsafe manner, the contractor will be notified and shall immediately cease all work activities. 

G. The time stated for completion shall include final cleanup of the premises. 

H. All approvals will be in writing. 

1.6 CONTRACTOR RESPONSIBILITIES 

A. The contractor shall provide a safe and healthful workplace for all employees while at 

Sagamore Hill NHS. 

 

B. The contractor shall provide a level of public safety, proportionate with exposure, while 

working at Sagamore Hill NHS. 

C. The contractor shall comply in rectifying all unsafe or unhealthy conditions called to his/her 

attention by the Contracting Officer or COR. 

 

D. The contractor shall allow for formal and informal, announced and unannounced safety 

inspections at the worksite. 
185 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE DOUBLE POST SPLIT RAIL FENCE 

02826-3

1.7 WORK AREA 

A. Contractor shall confine his work, the storage of materials and equipment, the parking of 

vehicles, and all other operations in connection with this contract to the specified hours and 

work areas approved by the COR. The Contractor shall not permit heavy equipment or 

vehicles or the stock piling of heavy materials off hard surface roads without the expressed 

permission of the COR. 

1.8 CLEANUP AND RESTORATION 

A. The contractor will be required to furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for daily cleanup 

and restoration of all disturbed areas or features, which have been damaged during the 

course of this contract. 

1.9 RESPONSIBILITY REGARDING EXISTING STRUCTURES, UTILITIES, EXISTING PLANT 

MATERIAL, AND OTHER LANDSCAPE FEATURES 

A. The contractor will be held responsible for any damages to, and for maintenance and 

protection of existing structures. Contractor shall repair or replace any damage resulting in 

connection with work under this contract or as a result of operations there under. Materials 

and methods shall conform to the current standards for the area damaged, match existing onsite materials, shall meet the approval of all cognizant officials and the COR. All damaged 

areas shall make smooth, satisfactory, and imperceptible transitions to existing adjacent 

work, and shall be performed without additional expense to the NPS. 

B. The contractor will be held responsible for any damages to, and for maintenance and 

protection of existing utilities. 

C. The contractor shall preserve and protect all existing vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and 

grass areas adjacent to fence lines. The contractor shall be responsible for all unauthorized 

cutting or damage to trees and shrubs, including damage due to careless operation of 

equipment, stockpiling of materials or tracking of grass and other surfaced areas by 

equipment. Such damaged areas or materials shall be restored, repaired or replaced by the 

contractor, as directed by the COR, at no additional cost to the Government. Unauthorized 

cutting or damage to trees will be subject to liquidated damages in accordance with the Guide 

for Plant Appraisal (9th edition, 2000). 

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

2.1 POSTS 

A. Species Robinia pseudoacacia, Black Locust, without bark, seven feet (7’) long. Posts shall 

be split (not sawn) to a rough half-round shape, 6-inches (6”) in diameter. 

B. Posts shall be spaced at ten feet (10') on center minimum to twelve feet (12') on center 

maximum. All posts shall be unstained and left to weather naturally. 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

186

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE DOUBLE POST SPLIT RAIL FENCE 

02826-4

2.2 RAILS 

A. Species Robinia pseudoacacia, Black Locust, without bark, 11 feet six-inches (11’-6”) long 

minimum to 13 feet six-inches (13’-6”) long maximum. Rails shall be split (not sawn) with 

tapered ends to allow a 1 foot six-inch (1’-6”) overlap. 

B. All rails shall be unstained and left to weather naturally. 

2.3 STEEL SUPPORT ROD 

A. Round steel bar stock, 1⁄4” diameter, conforming to ASTM Designation A36. 

B. Bar stock shall be unfinished and left to weather naturally. 

2.4 DENSE GRADED AGGREGATE 

A. Dense graded aggregate shall consist of inert material that is hard, durable stone and coarse 

sand, free from loam and clay, surface coatings, and deleterious materials. Gradation shall 

conform to the following: 

 

U.S. Sieve No. Percent Passing by Weight

1-1/2" 95-100 

3/4” 70-92 

3/8” 50-70 

#4 35-55 

#30 12-25 

#200 0-8 

B. Maximum size of stone in dense graded aggregate shall be two inches (2") largest 

dimension 

2.5 POSTS AND RAILS FOR THE PARK TO STOCKPILE 

A. In accordance with the specifications above, the Contractor shall provide fifty (50) posts and 

seventy-five (75) rails for the park to stockpile for future fence replacement work. 

B. Twenty (20) rails shall be at no less than 11 feet six-inches (11'-6") long and fifty-five (55) rails 

shall be at no less than 13 feet six-inches (13'-6") long. 

C. Fence posts and rails shall be delivered to a location approved by the Contracting Officer. 

The material shall be neatly stacked on skids and not come into direct contact with the 

ground. 

PART 3 - EXECUTION

3.1 GENERAL 

A. Examine final grades and installation conditions. Do not start work of this section until 

unsatisfactory conditions are corrected 

B. Line of fence shall be installed straight and true. All posts shall be set plumb and level and 

rails shall be installed parallel and true. 
187 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE DOUBLE POST SPLIT RAIL FENCE 

02826-5

3.2 POSTS 

A. Establish the location of each set of posts and the number of posts that will be used. The 

minimum spacing between sets of posts is ten feet (10’) on center. The maximum spacing 

between sets of posts is twelve feet (12’) on center. 

B. Drill post holes for the installation of each set of posts as follows; 

1. Hole diameter: Minimum three times post diameter. 

2. Hole depth: Minimum six inches deeper than post setting depth. 

3. Post depth: Minimum 2’-0’ deep for fences up to 5’-0” high, minimum 3’-0” for fences up 

to 6’-0” high, and minimum 3’-6” for fences up to 8’-0” high. 

C. Dense graded aggregate shall be placed in two (2) layers of four inches (4") loose depth each 

and then compacted to three inches (3") for a total aggregate base of six inches (6”). 

D. Set posts on six inch (6”) depth of dense graded aggregate. Fill remaining void with 

compacted earth fill. Slope top surface away from post. 

E. Half-round posts shall be set so that the rounded surface faces out and the split surface (flat 

side) faces the split surface (flat side) of the opposite post. 

F. Align each post both vertically and laterally and plumb with tops properly aligned. Secure in 

position during earth fill placement. 

3.3 STEEL SUPPORT ROD AND RAILS 

A. Drill posts as shown on drawings to accept 1⁄4” diameter steel bar stock. 

B. Cut steel bar stock in field to adequate length to span the two half-round posts and allow a 

maximum protrusion beyond each post of two inches (2”). Position steel bar stock equidistant 

between posts. Bend protruding ends of bar stock down to a flush or nearly flush condition 

with the posts. Grind smooth any burs or sharp edges on bar stock. 

C. Set rail between a pair of posts resting the rail on the steel bar stock. Tapered ends of rails 

shall overlap 1 foot six-inches (1’-6”). 

3.4 CLEAN-UP 

A. Perform cleaning during installation of work and upon completion of the work. Remove 

from site all debris and equipment. Repair all damage resulting from work of this Section. 

PART 4 - MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT

4.1 DOUBLE POST SPLIT RAIL FENCE 

A. Measurement will be the number of linear feet measured along the top of the fence in 

place. Payment will be made at the contract unit price. 

END OF SECTION 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

188

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-1

SECTION 02926 

HYDROSEEDING

PART 1 - GENERAL

1.1 SCOPE 

A. The work to be performed under this contract shall consist of providing all materials, labor, 

equipment, tools, and services necessary to complete hydroseeding in accordance with the 

specifications and drawings herein, but is not limited to, the following: 

1. Fine grading 

2. Hydroseeding 

3. Maintenance 

4. Guarantee 

B. The contractor shall not subcontract any work required by this contract without the express 

written approval of the Contracting Officer (CO). If the CO approves the Contractor to 

subcontract any part of the work required under this contract, a copy of any such subcontract 

shall be provided to the CO. 

1.2 EXAMINATION OF SITE AND DOCUMENTS 

A. The following items of related work are specified and included in other Sections of the 

Specifications: 

02100 SITE PREPARATION 

02230 CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING 

02231 SELECTIVE TREE REMOVAL 

B. Examine Drawing, “Scope of Work Map, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site” for designated 

areas to be hydroseeded, labeled areas #1, #2, #3 and #4 and all other Sections of the 

Specifications for requirements therein affecting the work of this trade. 

C. All areas to be hydroseeded shall be inspected by the Contractor before starting work and 

any defects such as incorrect grading, etc., shall be reported to the Contracting Officer prior 

to beginning this work. The commencement of work by the Contractor shall indicate his/her 

acceptance of the areas to be seeded, and he/she shall assume full responsibility for the 

work of this Section. 

1.3 DEFINITIONS 

A. The following standards and definitions shall apply to the work of this Section. 

1. AOAC: Association of Official Agricultural Chemists 

2. USDA: United States Department of Agriculture, latest requirements for "USDA 

Textural Classification." 

1.4 WORK AREA 

The contractor shall confine his/her work, the storage of materials and equipment, the parking of 

vehicles, and all other operations in connection with this contract to the areas approved by the CO. 
189 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-2

The public ways shall not be encumbered with any of the above or any unusual traffic situations 

created by reason of operations under this contract without special permits obtained by and at the 

expense of the contractor from cognizant local officials. 

1.5 HEAVY EQUIPMENT: 

Contractor shall not permit heavy equipment or vehicles or the stock piling of heavy materials in the 

desired root protection area. The root protection area is defined as an area equal to a radius of 1.5 

feet for each inch of diameter at breast height (dbh) (ie: a 10 inch dbh tree will require protection 15 

feet from the main trunk in all directions). Limited activity of this sort may take place with the 

expressed permission of the CO in areas determined to be safe from excessive damage, however, 

under no conditions shall this activity take place within the root protection area without mitigation to 

protect the tree trunk and roots. If construction activities are to take place within the desired root 

protection area, prior to any construction, tree trunks must be protected with chain link fence and the 

entire root protection area covered with double layered plywood, AlturnaMats® or similar, or a 

geotextile fabric and mulched with a minimum of 4-5 inches of wood chips. Pruning, fertilization, 

aeration, and irrigation may also be required if directed by the CO. Any damage resulting from such 

practices shall be made good to the satisfaction of and without additional expense to the Government. 

1.6 RESPONSIBILITY REGARDING EXISTING PLANT MATERIAL AND OTHER LANDSCAPE 

FEATURES: 

The Contractor shall preserve and protect all existing vegetation such as trees, shrubs, and grass on 

or adjacent to the site. Trees and shrubs that may be subject to construction activities within the root 

protection area shall be boxed and protected with vinyl, plastic mesh, or wood fencing material as 

directed by the CO. The Contractor shall be responsible for all unauthorized cutting or damage to 

trees and shrubs, including damage resulting from careless operation of equipment, stockpiling of 

materials, or tracking of grass and other surfaced areas by equipment. Such damaged areas or 

materials shall be restored, repaired, or replaced by the Contractor, as directed by the CO, at no 

expense to the Government and within 5 days prior to Initial Acceptance. 

1.7 PATCHING OF PUBLIC SIDEWALKS, CURBS, GUTTERS, AND STREETS: 

Contractor shall patch, repair, or replace portions of sidewalks, curbs, gutters, streets, manholes, and 

the like that are damaged in connection with work under this contract or as a result of operations 

thereunder. Materials and methods shall conform to the current standards for the area damaged, 

match existing on-site materials, and shall meet the approval of all cognizant officials and the CO. All 

damaged areas shall make smooth, satisfactory, and imperceptible transitions to existing adjacent 

work, and shall be performed without additional expense to the Government. 

1.8 WARNING SIGNS: 

The Contractor shall provide, erect, and maintain all necessary barricades, traffic cones, suitable and 

sufficient red lights, warning and danger signals and signs, and provide a sufficient number of 

watchmen and flagmen to insure the safe flow of traffic, protection of the work area, and safety of the 

public in accordance with "Work Zone Traffic Control, Standards and Guidelines", U.S. Department of 

Transportation, Federal Highway Administration. All open excavations shall be barricaded overnight 

and warning lights shall be clearly visible. All roadways must remain open to the public unless 

approved by the CO. 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

190

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-3

1.9 AIR AND WATER POLLUTION CONTROL: 

The Contractor shall take all necessary measures to prevent soil erosion, air and water pollution by 

any material and/or equipment used during construction. The Contractor shall keep the site clean and 

free of trash and debris including, but not limited to, loose construction and materials such as; sand, 

cement, lime, wood pieces, building paper, etc. The Contractor shall place all trash and debris in 

approved containers. These containers shall be removed from the site daily to a location where it will 

not be possible for water to reach them, or for it to be dispersed in any way. No burning of trash or 

debris will be permitted on site. When excavation, obliterations, and demolitions are made, resultant 

loose earth and debris shall be immediately disposed of, off the site, unless otherwise specified. 

1.10 CLEANUP AND RESTORATION: 

The Contractor will be required to furnish all labor, materials, and equipment for daily cleanup and 

restoration of all disturbed areas or features which have been damaged during the course of work. If 

so directed, the Contractor shall be prepared to sweep and wash paved surfaces daily or as needed. 

The Contractor shall also be responsible for replacing all damaged turf areas to the satisfaction of the 

CO. 

1.11 LAYOUT OF WORK: 

Final grades and all planting locations shall be subject to adjustment and approval on-site with the 

concurrence of the CO or designated representative. 

1.12 SCHEDULING AND COORDINATION 

A. The contractor shall notify the Contracting Officer (CO) 48 hours prior to beginning any work 

on a delivery order. Work shall be performed between the hours of _____ a.m. and _____ 

p.m. Monday through Friday, legal holidays excluded, unless authorized in writing by the CO. 

B. Work shall be scheduled and arranged so as not to interfere with normal activities of the park. 

 Advanced notice will be given to the contractor if a conflict is expected. Any plant debris, 

personnel, or equipment that would interfere with an activity or event shall be removed prior 

to the activity. 

C. Once work begins the contractor is expected to be on the job site each day in which weather 

conditions are favorable as determined by the COR or designated park representative. 

D. All work within a designated area as specified on the delivery order shall be completed, 

inspected, and accepted in accordance with the procedures stated herein before beginning 

work in another area. 

E. If, at any time, the CO determines that the work is unsatisfactory or being conducted in an 

unsafe manner, the contractor will be notified and shall immediately cease all work activities. 

F. The time stated for completion shall include final cleanup of the premises. 

G. All approvals will be in writing. 
191 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-4

PART 2 - PRODUCTS

2.1 IMPORTED TOPSOIL 

A. Any depressions greater than three (3) inches depth created during the tree clearing work 

should be brought to level grade with added topsoil. Topsoil shall be natural, surface soil, 

free of any man-made materials, in a friable condition and contain less than 3 percent subsoil. 

 It shall match the existing parent soil in composition and texture. When tested, the topsoil 

shall have a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. The topsoil shall be free of hardpan material, stones and 

clods larger than 1/2 inch in diameter, sticks, tree or shrub roots, debris, toxic substances (i.e. 

residual herbicides) and other material detrimental to plant growth. The area and the topsoil 

shall be free of plant or plant parts of undesirable plants such as, but not limited to, 

bermudagrass, nut sedge, mugwort, johnson grass, quack grass, Canada thistle or noxious 

weeds as set forth in the Federal Seed Act. 

B. Contractor shall notify CO of location of all sources of the topsoil and furnish the CO a 

certified report from the agricultural experiment station or approved agricultural laboratory of 

an analysis performed not more than 60 days prior to the date of submission. The CO shall 

inspect a sample of the topsoil. 

C. Agricultural limestone at not more than 5 pounds per cubic yard of topsoil may be used to 

adjust an acidic condition if necessary following soil tests and with approval of the CO. The 

limestone, if needed, shall be thoroughly mixed by volume. 

D. Amended topsoil is not acceptable. Topsoil which has been synthesized by blending 

materials which individually do not meet the requirements of this specification will not be 

accepted even though the resulting blend meets the organic matter, mechanical analysis, pH 

and soluble salts requirements. 

E. The CO must inspect and sample all topsoil at the source and at the time of delivery. These 

inspections will be made without cost to the Contractor. 

F. Topsoil must not be delivered or handled in a frozen or muddy condition. 

G. Shipment and delivery - All soil must be approved by the CO before delivery to site. Any 

material not meeting requirements of this specification will be rejected on or after delivery. 

2.2 SOIL ADDITIVES 

A. Agricultural limestone or other additives shall be used to counteract soil deficiencies as 

recommended by the soil test analysis and as directed by the CO. Nitrogen fertilizers shall 

not be used unless soil nutritional conditions are extremely poor, as may be the case on sand 

dunes or gravel pits. 

B. Acidic soils greater than 5.5 pH shall be adjusted with ground limestone meeting the following 

specifications: Limestone shall be calcic or dolomitic agricultural ground limestone containing 

at least 85% of total calcium and magnesium carbonates with 40% passing a No. 100 sieve 

and 95% passing a No. 8 sieve. 

2.3 SEED MIXTURES FOR HYDRODSEEDING 

A. Seed mixtures shall be fresh, clean, new crop seed. Grass shall be of the previous year's 

crop and in no case shall weed seed content exceed 1% by weight. The seed shall be 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

192

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-5

furnished and delivered in the proportion specified below in new, clean, sealed and properly 

labeled containers. All seed shall comply with State and Federal seed laws. Submit 

manufacturer's Certificates of Compliance. Seed which has become wet, moldy, or otherwise 

damaged will not be acceptable. 

B. Seed shall be labeled in accordance with USDA Rules and Regulations under the Federal 

Seed Act and applicable state seed laws. Seed shall be from the same or previous year’s 

crop; each variety of seed shall have the following: 

Percentage of germination ≥ 90% 

Percentage of purity ≥ 85% 

Percentage of weed seed ≤ 0.02% 

Percentage of inert material < 2% 

Within thirty (30) days of award of the contract, the Contractor shall provide the CO with 

written certification from the supplier of the seed to ensure that the required plant species 

are available. 

The seed mix should yield an open meadow plant community which is low maintenance, 

requiring no more than one to two mowings per year once the vegetation is established. 

The plant community should also be relatively resistant to invasion by non-native plant 

species so that there is not a constant need for spraying, pulling, or hand-weeding. 

The following native grass species are found at Sagamore Hill and can be purchased 

commercially, which makes them desirable candidates for the seed mix, depending on the 

site conditions. However, other native grasses can be considered and some are listed 

after this section. 

• Agrostis perennans, Perennial or autumn bentgrass 

• Andropogon gerardii, Big bluestem: should comprise <3% in the mix unless a 

cultivar is selected that is proven shorter and less invasive. 

• Deschampsia flexuosa, Wavy hairgrass 

• Dichanthelium clandestinum, Deertongue 

• Elymus virginicus, Virginia wildrye 

• Schizachyrium scoparium, Little bluestem 

• Sorghastrum nutans, Indiangrass: should comprise <3% in the mix unless a 

cultivar is selected that is proven shorter and less invasive. 

• Tridens flavus, Purpletop: should comprise <3% in the mix unless a 

cultivar is selected that is proven shorter 

Other grass species that are native to Long Island, but not found at Sagamore Hill, can be 

considered: 

• Festuca rubra ssp. rubra, Red fescue: Only this subspecies is acceptable; other 

subspecies have been listed as invasive in New York. If ascertaining the 

subspecies cannot be done with certainty, this grass should not be 

included. 

• Koeleria macrantha (cristata), Prairie junegrass 

• Sporobolus heterolepis, Northern prairie dropseed 

In all cases, taller and/or more aggressive species should be a smaller percentage of any 

seed mix. 
193 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-6

Ten percent or less of the mix should contain forbs which are beneficial to native 

pollinators, insects, and other wildlife. Some native forbs to consider are: 

• Asclepius tuberosa, Butterfly milkweed 

• Chamaecrista fasciculata, Partridge pea: The seed for this must be inoculated 

with the correct Rhizobium species prior to planting. 

• Monarda fistulosa, Wild bergamot: This species should be a very small 

percentage of the seed mix as it can become weedy. 

• Monarda punctata, Spotted (dotted) beebalm 

• Rudbeckia spp., Black or brown-eyed Susans: This species should comprise a 

very small percentage of the mix as certain species can get weedy. 

C. Prior to the start of work, the Contractor shall furnish the CO with a certified statement as to 

the number of pounds of materials to be used per 1000 square feet at least thirty- (30) days 

prior to starting work. 

 

2.4 HYDROMULCH 

A. Hydromulch shall be 100% Virgin Wood Fiber Mulch with tackifier shall be for use in 

hydraulically planting grass seed, either alone or in combination with fertilizers and other 

approved additives, and shall consist of specially prepared wood fibers as manufactured from 

whole wood chips by Weyerhaeuser under the brand name of Silva-Fiber or approved equal. 

It shall contain a specified range of fiber lengths, with a minimum of 30% of the fibers 

averaging 0.15 inches or longer. All matter shall be non-toxic to plant or animal life. 

1. The Virgin Wood Fiber Mulch shall contain no growth or germination-inhibiting factors, 

and be colored green with a non-toxic dye to facilitate visual metering during application. 

 It shall disperse rapidly in water to form a homogenous slurry, and remain in such a state 

when agitated in the hydraulic mulching unit with any other specified and approved 

materials. 

2. The Virgin Wood Fiber Mulch and any specified additives, when applied, shall form an 

absorptive mat, but not a growth inhibiting membrane, to allow moisture, natural or 

mechanical, to percolate into the underlying soil. 

3. Fiber for mulch shall not be produced from recycled material such as sawdust, paper, 

cardboard or residue from pulp, paper or insulation factories. 

B. Hydromulch Virgin Wood Fiber With Tackifier shall be applied at a rate of 1,200-1,500 pounds 

per acre on 2.5:1 slopes or flatter, or at 1,500-2,000 pounds per acre on slopes steeper than 

2.5:1. 

2.5 SUBMITTALS 

A. Source for seed mixtures - Within 7 days of receiving a delivery order 

B. Topsoil - 2 pounds submitted 14 days after award. A soil analysis certificate conducted not 

less than 60 days before submittal shall accompany the sample. 

2.6 WATER 

A. If a water supply is not available or not functioning on site the Contractor will be held 

responsible to furnish adequate supplies of water to meet the watering requirements 

specified, herein, at his own cost. 

B. Any work injured or damaged due to the lack of water, or the use of too much water, shall 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

194

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-7

be the Contractor's responsibility to correct. Water shall be free from impurities injurious 

to vegetation. 

C. Any water trucks or mechanical pumping devices shall be appropriately sized to not damage 

existing structures, historic earthworks, pathways, or other site improvements. Contractor 

likewise shall not cause damage to any lawns or planting during the watering operation. Any 

damage to the site or adjacent sites caused by the Contractor shall be repaired in kind at his 

cost. 

PART 3 - EXECUTION

3.1 FINE GRADING 

A. The Contractor shall prepare all areas to be hydroseeded with a York® rake or equivalent 

landscape rake and light tractor to remove from the surface all stones greater than two 

(2”) inches and all debris or rubbish. Such material shall be removed from the site and 

legally disposed of. 

B. All depressions caused by tree clearing work greater in depth than three (3) inches below 

existing grade shall be filled with approved imported topsoil. The surface shall be 

regraded until presenting a smooth and even finish corresponding to level, adjacent 

grades. 

C. No subsoil or imported topsoil shall be handled in any way if it is in a wet or frozen condition. 

D. After approved imported topsoil has been spread, it shall be carefully prepared by scarifying 

and hand raking. Any large stiff clods, lumps, brush, roots, stumps, litter and other foreign 

matter, and stones over one inch in diameter shall be removed from the topsoil. Approved 

imported topsoil shall also be free of smaller stones in excessive quantities as determined by 

the CO. 

E. Contractor shall obtain CO's approval of fine grading and bed preparation before doing any 

hydroseeding. 

3.2 INCORPORATION OF ADDITIVES 

 

A. For areas to be hydroseeded, the soil additives shall be included in the hydroseeding mix. 

The mix composition shall be submitted for written approval of the CO. 

3.3 HYDROSEEDING 

A. Limit of hydroseeding shall be as indicated as areas #1, #2, #3 and #4 on the Drawing 

“Scope of Work Map, Sagamore Hill National Historic Site.” These areas shall be 

hydroseeded only after written approval of bed preparation by the CO. If areas are disturbed 

by the Contractor during his construction operations these areas shall be rehydroseeded by 

the Contractor at no increased cost, and shall be subject to the same quality control and 

guarantees as regular hydroseeding specified herein. 

B. Hydroseeding shall be done only during the period from April 1 to May 15 or August 20 to 

September 30. The actual planting of seed shall be done, however, only during periods 

within this season, which are normal for such work as determined by weather conditions and 
195 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-8

by accepted practice in this locality. At his option, and on his responsibility, the Contractor 

may plant seed under unseasonable conditions at no increased cost. 

C. Hydroseed only when the bed is in a friable condition, not muddy or hard. Any area 

inadequately covered shall be retreated until a satisfactory stand of grass is established. This 

shall include mowing, refertilizing, reseeding and remulching as required. 

D. Wood cellulose fiber mulch shall be added to the hydroseeding slurry at the rate of 1,200 

to 1,500 pounds per acre for 2.5:1 slopes or flatter slopes and 1,500 to 2,000 pounds per 

acre for slopes steeper than 2.5:1. 

 

E. Mobile sprayers shall be filled with water, virgin wood fiber mulch, and tackifier, in 

quantities so they may be sprayed in the specified proportions per unit of area to be 

seeded. The slurry shall be thoroughly mixed by means of positive agitation in the tank. 

The sprayer shall be equipped with a seeding nozzle of a proper design to insure even 

distribution of the hydromulch with tackifier over the area to be mulched and shall be 

operated by a person thoroughly familiar with this type of spraying operation. 

F. When applying hydromulch the equipment to be utilized shall be approved by the CO before 

arriving on the site. 

3.4 MAINTENANCE 

A. Maintenance shall begin immediately after any area is hydroseeded and shall continue for 

one (1) year following the completion of all seeding work, and until final acceptance of the 

project. 

B. Contractor shall mow entire hydroseeded grass areas and other areas identified on the 

Drawings for one (1) year after hydroseeding as detailed under 3.4.H below. 

C. Maintenance shall include reseeding or rehydroseeding, mowing, watering, weeding, and 

fertilizing. Maintenance shall also include chemical treatments as required for fungus, weed, 

and/or pest control. Submit all proposed chemical treatments for approval of the CO prior to 

application. 

D. During the maintenance period, any decline in the condition of seeded or hydroseeded areas 

shall require the Contractor to take immediate action to identify potential problems and to 

undertake corrective measures. 

E. Watering of Hydroseeded Areas: 

1. First Week: The Contractor shall provide all labor and arrange for all watering necessary 

to establish an acceptable lawn. In the absence of an adequate rainfall, watering shall be 

performed daily or as often as necessary during the first week and in sufficient quantities 

to maintain moist soil to a depth of at least two inches. 

2. Second and Subsequent Weeks: The Contractor shall water the lawn as required to 

maintain adequate moisture, in the upper two inches of soil, necessary for the promotion 

of deep root growth. 

3. Watering shall be done in a manner which will provide uniform coverage, prevent erosion 

due to application of excessive quantities over small areas, and prevent damage to the 

finished surface by the watering equipment. The Contractor shall furnish sufficient 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

196

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-9

watering equipment to apply one complete coverage to the hydroseeded areas in an 

eight (8) hour period. 

F. Protection: 

1. The Contractor is responsible for keeping people, animals, and vehicles off hydroseeded 

areas during the lawn establishment period until grasses are finally accepted. 

2. The Contractor is responsible for protection immediately after hydroseeding and for 

maintaining protection until acceptance. If security is required it shall be the responsibility 

of the Contractor at no additional cost to the Government. 

G. Rehydroseeding: 

1. After the grass in hydroseeded areas has appeared, all areas and parts of areas which, 

in the opinion of the CO, fail to show a uniform stand of grass, for any reason 

whatsoever, shall be reseeded and such areas and parts of areas shall be 

rehydroseeded repeatedly until all areas are covered with a satisfactory growth of grass. 

2. Rehydroseeding together with necessary grading, fertilizing, liming and trimming shall be 

done at the expense of the Contractor who shall spread the seed by a method approved 

by the CO and during an approved season. 

H. Mowing: The Contractor shall keep lawn areas mowed until written acceptance by the CO 

by cutting to a height of three (3) inches when growth reaches four (4) inches or as 

directed by the CO. Mowing shall be performed by a mulching deck. 

3.5 INITIAL ACCEPTANCE 

Initial acceptance will be given by the CO after an inspection and verification of the work performed as 

defined in the contract specifications. Acceptance can be on partially completed work if approved by 

the CO. 

3.6 GUARANTEE 

The guarantee period shall begin after Initial Acceptance. During the guarantee period the contractor 

shall properly care for all hydroseeded grass areas as specified herein until final acceptance. The 

contractor is responsible for periodically inspecting the materials during the guarantee period and 

shall notify the Government in writing of any suspected problems. 

3.7 FINAL ACCEPTANCE 

Final Acceptance will be given at the end of the one (1) year maintenance period. At the time of final 

acceptance, hydroseeded grass areas shall be considered unacceptable if they fail to show a uniform 

stand of grass. The Contractor shall be responsible for a one time replacement only. 

3.8 MEASUREMENT AND PAYMENT: 

A. The Contractor shall include with all invoices for payment an acceptance report 

signed by the CO or designated park representative. Failure of the contractor to 

obtain signed acceptance report(s) will release the Government from any obligation 

to pay for services claimed but not documented by a signed acceptance report. 

B. The amount to be paid will be based on the actual bid items completed and 

accepted. Quantities so measured will be paid for at the specified item bid price. 
197 

Appendix B

SAGAMORE HILL NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE HYDROSEEDING 

02926-10

C. The National Park Service reserves the right to conduct any testing or 

inspection it may deem advisable to assure that all work conforms to the 

specifications herein. 

END OF SECTION 
Cultural Landscape Report for Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

198

Sagamore Hill National Historic Site

Class C Government Cost Estimate - December 2009

ITEMS AND ASSUMPTIONS QUANTITY UNIT UNIT COST TOTAL COST

Site Preparation

Clear wooded areas to restore historic fields and meadows

1) West Lawn

cut and chip large trees and brush 0.87 acre $14,050 $12,224

grind stumps 6"- 11" dbh 59 ea $80 $4,720

grind stumps 12"- 17" dbh 28 ea $100 $2,800

grind stumps 18"- 23" dbh 8 ea $150 $1,200

grind stumps 24"- 35" dbh 2 ea $200 $400

2) North field (area closest to parking lot)

cut and chip large trees and brush 0.36 acre $14,050 $5,058

3) North field

cut and chip large trees and brush 0.94 acre $14,050 $13,207

grind stumps 6"- 11" dbh 100 ea $80 $8,000

grind stumps 12"- 17" dbh 23 ea $100 $2,300

grind stumps 18"- 23" dbh 12 ea $150 $1,800

grind stumps 24"- 35" dbh 4 ea $200 $800

4) Southeast field (area north of composting locations 

and along fence line)

cut and chip large trees and brush 0.94 acre $14,050 $13,207

grind stumps 6"- 11" dbh 47 ea $80 $3,760

grind stumps 12"- 17" dbh 25 ea $100 $2,500

grind stumps 18"- 23" dbh 10 ea $150 $1,500

grind stumps 24"- 35" dbh 5 ea $200 $1,000

grind stumps 36"- 48" dbh 3 ea $300 $900

clear vines 30-feet beyond limit of clearing 0.31 acre $3,600 $1,116

remove wood pile 4.40 cu yd $22 $95

Remove trees & grind stumps near Gray Cottage

6"- 11" dbh 1 ea $155 $155

12"- 17" dbh 5 ea $300 $1,500

Remove declining trees & grind stumps near historic road trace

6"- 11" dbh 6 ea $155 $930

12"- 17" dbh 6 ea $300 $1,800

subtotal $80,971

Planting

York rake cleared areas 

1) West Lawn 0.87 acre $2,352 $2,046

2) North field (area closest to parking lot) 0.36 acre $2,352 $847

3) North field 0.94 acre $2,352 $2,211

4) Southeast field (area north of composting locations 

and along fence line) 0.94 acre $2,352 $2,211

Hydro-seed with Custom Native Grass and Forb Mix

1) West Lawn 0.87 acre $2,030 $1,766

2) North field (area closest to parking lot) 0.36 acre $2,030 $731

3) North field 0.94 acre $2,030 $1,908

4) Southeast field (area north of composting locations 

and along fence line) 0.94 acre $2,030 $1,908

subtotal $13,628

Maintenance

Mowing hydro-seeded areas for one year 1 allow $3,000 $3,000

subtotal $3,000

Site Furnishings

Double Post Split Rail Fence

1) Between south and southeast field 260 lf $31 $8,060

2) Across north field 300 lf $31 $9,300

3) From Gray Cottage to North Pasture 133 lf $31 $4,123

4) Between parking lot and garden site 177 lf $31 $5,487

Replacement posts 50 ea $34 $1,700

Replacement rails 75 ea $45 $3,375

subtotal $32,045

TOTAL $129,644

Prepared by:

Timothy W. Layton

Historical Landscape Architect

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

Charlestown Navy Yard, Quarters C

Boston, MA 02129
Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

LEGEND

NOTES

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

Scope of Work Map

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

1. Contour Interval = 5’-0” 

0’ 37.5’ 75’ 150’

1. Boundary Survey for Sagamore Hill National

 Historic Site, 2006

2. Town of Oyster Bay, Nassau County, Color

 Ortho Imagery, Captured 2007

3. Existing Conditions Plans for Historic Plant

 Inventory, 1995

4. Landscape Rehabilitation Plan, 1998

5. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

Drawing 1

Property Line

Limit of Vine Removal

Proposed Fence Installation

Limit of Clearing

#1

#2

#3

#4

#6

#7

#5

A

B

D

C

REMOVE AND COMPLETELY DISPOSE OF 12 MARKED

TREES (ORANGE FLAGGING) BETWEEN SAGAMORE

HILL ROAD AND PET CEMETERY 

REMOVE AND COMPLETELY DISPOSE OF 5 MARKED

TREES (ORANGE FLAGGING) AND 1 LARGE YEW

BETWEEN GRAY COTTAGE AND AREA #3

CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING

WEST LAWN 

CLEARING AND

STUMP GRINDING

SOUTHEAST FIELD

CLEARING AND STUMP GRINDING

NORTH FIELD

REMOVE AND COMPLETELY

DISPOSE OF EXISTING WOOD PILE

REMOVE AND COMPLETELY

DISPOSE OF EXISTING

EVERGREEN NEAR NEW BARN

REMOVE AND COMPLETELY

DISPOSE OF EXISTING VINES

30-FEET BEYOND LIMIT OF CLEARING

PROVIDE 6-FEET CLEAR ON BOTH

SIDES OF PROPOSED FENCE

PROVIDE 6-FEET CLEAR ON

EAST SIDE OF EXISTING FENCE

S A

G

A

M

O R E H I L L R

O

A

D

Oyster Bay, New York

National Park Service

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

SOURCES

DRAWN BY

SCALE

Tim Layton, AutoCAD 2002, Illustrator CS3, 2009

Sagamore Hill

National Historic Site

Fence Details

OLMSTED

for LANDSCAPE PRESERVATION

CENTER

www.nps.gov/oclp

As Noted

1. Field Inventory, Olmsted Center for Landscape

 Preservation, March-April 2009

Drawing 2

NOTES

1. New fence sections shall be installed at 10’-0” on center. 

At locations where the 10’-0“ on center spacing does not 

work out evenly, one section or more shall be increased to 

greater than 10’-0” on center. The rails shall be 11’-6” 

long for the 10’-0” on center spacing and maintain a 

minimum of 6” of overlap for longer sections.

2. In accordance with the documents, the Contractor shall 

provide 50 posts and 75 rails for the park to stockpile for 

future fence replacement work. Twenty (20) rails shall be 

at no less than 11’-6” long and fifty-five (55) rails shall be 

at no less than 13’-6” long. Fence posts and rails shall be 

delivered to a location approved by the Contracting 

Officer. The material shall be neatly stacked on skids and 

not come into direct contact with the ground.

National Park Service

U.S. Department of the Interior

Olmsted Center for Landscape Preservation

Boston National Historical Park

Charlestown Navy Yard, Quarters C

Boston, Massachusetts 02129

Phone: 617-241-6954

Fax: 617-241-3952

web: www.nps.gov/oclp/