So we all know that two weeks ago was the birthday of Doris Duke. But what was truly done in celebration? The DORIS group strikes again! Another milestone was reached on December 6th at another of the Duke’s properties; Duke Island Park. A lively rhythm from decades past filled the air, the sweet scent of buttercream icing radiated from the pavilion, and guests gathered, following the iconic lawn signs of the group to the party.
On behalf of the Retro Revival, we want to congratulate the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and its close affiliate, Duke Farms Foundation on receiving the inaugural Doris Duke Historic Demolition Award! You have truly made history with your negligence of a famous philanthropist’s final wishes. Actions are always remembered, and we will never allow it to be forgotten. If only you were to partner with us to find less destructive means to preserve her homestead in its entirety.
The overall party was a splendid get-together, but with less press admittedly than originally expected. Instead, we were greeted with a wellspring of amazing information and pictures delivered by a devoted DORIS supporter. Albums emerged, showing the truest colors of the Duke’s bustling family estate. A cake even featured the grand estate’s back-facing facade, best known for the palm room’s windows. All the members of DORIS, which have been cited as volunteers in all that they do. Everyone in attendance was thrilled to be there, despite the cold weather. With every party, of course, comes a marvelous after-party too!
Following the distribution of cake and other goodies, some members elected to visit Duke Farms to tread the grounds a bit. It appears that DORIS is more than welcome here, and it is exceptionally lovely at dusk. This has been the first of many events to follow in 2016. In the early wake of the inaugural Doris Duke birthday party for the Somerset area, we can only expect to grow from here in numbers and in celebrations. Thank you, readers, for staying tuned!
Retro Curious Rebellious: The Revival 
As one who was truly lucky enough to grow up and be able to ride on Ms.Duke’s property, to get close enough to feel like I was one with the wildlife (albino deer,brown deer, fox,and other such animals) I was indeed blessed. Later in life again thankful to live on her estate for about 12 years. Sadly in the decade I see no wheat, corn or hay growing her fields for the animals, nor the wildlife that she cared for so very much. Today in those very fields only weeds and overgrown brush. Where there was no paved roads now there are some and more to come I’m sure. How this is natural with traffic lights, paved roads and a cafe I have no idea I must of went to a different school. I was happy to see the gathering today to honor Ms. Duke I only wish we could add Hillsborough to the wall of shame.
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Thank you, URHome! We couldn’t agree more. A natural habitat with historic (or even antique) structures like fountains and gardens can easily find a balance between environment and preservation. After all, environmentally sound practices should use what resources they have, not knock them down! The Retro Revival writers agree that much work needs to be done to revise Duke Farms enough to make everyone happy.
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