This year’s Homes of Distinction fundraiser, organized by the Bernardsville Library Foundation, puts an exciting spin on the usual idea of viewing a magnificent estate. In this case, the Foundation is providing its guests with a one-of-a-kind afternoon of entertainment and equestrian history presented in a perfect setting – the United States Equestrian Team stable and carriage barn at Hamilton Farm. Located in the horse country of Gladstone, Somerset County, the stable and carriage barn are part of the original 5,000-acre Hamilton Farm estate of financier James Cox Brady. Hamilton Farm is now celebrating its 100th anniversary, which adds historic significance to the event.
On Sunday, June 4th, guests will have the opportunity to view both the opulent stable and the carriage barn, notable for their distinctive architectural touches such as Guastavino ceiling tiles, brass fittings, terrazzo flooring, and a spectacular plate-glass ceiling for viewing from the second-floor trophy room. Live entertainment will be provided by jazz duo John Zweig and Rick Crane while guests enjoy appetizers provided by The Bernards Inn. Cocktails may be sipped in a conversation area designed by Jeffrey B. Haines, Butlers of Far Hills. A silent auction and wine pull will add to the festive atmosphere. As a pre-event special offering, guests who choose to purchase Benefactor level tickets will visit a nearby private estate to view an exceptional collection of antique carriages, coaches and sleighs, followed by specialty hors d’oeuvres, and a history presentation by local historian and author W. Barry Thomson in the Hamilton Farm Trophy Room. For more information on how to support Bernardsville Library through your attendance at this very special fundraiser, please refer to http://www.bernardsvillelibrary.org/events/.