Like so many institutions, the GCT is working hard to understand the history of the land we are so fortunate to steward. When we recently discovered two generations of enslavers were associated with the Moors Schoolhouse Site, we wanted to learn more. The discussions among trustees and advisory council members have been heartfelt, intense and uncomfortable at times, but the consensus of what to do, for now, is clear: we need to tell the story of the Moors family and the property we steward. In an article on the GCT website, we begin to tell this story. We also plan to revamp the schoolhouse site to include a more complete picture of the Moors family patriarch Abraham and his son Joseph, as well as the humans they owned: Titus and Zebinah.

As this is also part of the history of Groton, we hope to partner with others in town to tell a fuller story of slavery in Groton, of the schools, and how Indigenous Peoples and Blacks shaped Groton. We will be updating this work on our website. One thing is clear: the time is right to begin these discussions with facts and compassion.

We encourage you to read what we have discovered so far. A list of resources is also linked in the article so you can view the tremendous amount of research that went into this effort. If you know any of this history and can help tell a fuller story, please let us know.

At Groton Conservation Forum guest speaker, Sophie Ehrhardt, who coordinates the Wildlands Partnership at Northeast Wilderness Trust, gave a presentation on Why Wilderness. Many of you expressed interest in the other wilderness talks from NEWT including one coming up on May 5 featuring Bill McKibben.

Running through April 25, Bates is the home for an interpretive art in conjunction with the GrotonReads program at the Groton Public Library. The book is John Lewis' graphic novel March. In a printmaking event, children created art based on the book, which is now an open-air exhibit. Images include quotes from the book, and a Gees Bend quilt.

Be sure you visit to enjoy art in the beautiful surroundings of Groton nature. Photos (courtesy of Owen Shuman) are of Mairead Orpen with children Owen and Kelly.

Earth day is not just a single day celebration for us. We think about, and act on behalf of, our earth every day! Your membership says you are with us as we protect and preserve the open spaces in Groton, and work toward keeping our earth beautiful for generations to come!

As always, thank you for your support.

Many thanks to trustees Mark Gerath, Rick Muehlke and Chuck Vander Linden,

for property work this past month.

Mark and Rick were able to make the best of a downed BIG tree at Bates by creating an opening to allow access to the path.

Chuck and Rick "re-planted" the sign at The General Field after it was accidentally knocked down.

For the month of May 2021, Groton Conservation Trust will receive a $1 donation from each purchase of the $2.50 reusable GIVE BACK WHERE IT COUNTS Bag at the Shaw's store located at Shaw's 760A Boston Road, Groton MA.