The Fells Historic Estate and Gardens is one of more than 2,000 museums across America to participate in Blue Museums, a collaboration among the National Endowment for the Arts, Blue Star Families, and the Department of Defense, to offer free admission to military personnel and their families this summer. The program runs through Labor Day, September 2, and provides military families an opportunity to enjoy the nation’s cultural heritage and learn more about their new communities after completing a military move. The complete list of participating museums is available at Arts.gov/BlueStarMuseums.

The Fells is proud to participate in this program. John Milton Hay, who established The Fells in 1891 as a summer retreat, was active in international government affairs and made many noteworthy contributions. He was a private secretary to Abraham Lincoln and Secretary of State under Presidents William McKinley and Theodore Roosevelt. On October 25, 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt established John Hay Air Station setting aside land in Benguet for a military reservation under the United States Army.

A visit to The Fells includes a guided tour of the early 20th Century house; an exhibit that highlights the unique relationship between Lincoln and Hay; five acres of beautifully restored gardens; art exhibits; a fairy village; and nature trails. Guests can also relax on the veranda and enjoy distant views of Lake Sunapee and Mount Sunapee. Open weekends through June 16; and Wednesdays through Sundays, June 19 through Labor Day. For more information, visit TheFells.org.