Category: The Trials of Doris

Yes, there have been strides of energy conservation, environmentally-conscious innovation, and attention to modernized detail taking place at Duke Farms. What has DORIS brought to the surface this time? The litter on the property is surprisingly high, reportedly ‘new’ technology for the LEED standards of buildings have been used before, and plant life is not solely indigenous as they say.

First off, we begin with the litter problem. This is probably the most visible problem for the general public to identify, but not without truly observing the landscape. Duke Farms has a curious attitude toward people staying on the path most traveled by. While they encourage guests to learn and become better stewards of the land, they do not indicate that all guests are to remain obediently on the paths, ask no curious questions, and refrain from all research about the history of the land aside from what they produce for you. Upon a very light inspection of the lakes, hills, and other locations that stray less than 10 feet from most paths, any guest can identify flakes of plastic from previous research tents, construction efforts, and other additional work done by the foundation. Litter of any kind can become fatal for wildlife such as fish, turtles, waterfowl, and land-dwelling creatures. If ingested, animals can suffer organ damage or failure, and suffer tremendously. For some reason, the environmental stewards at Duke Farms find it acceptable to leave bits and pieces of their projects behind. No self-sustaining habitat has a place for plastics, construction materials, or waterlogged tarp. While the technology and green building that the site is known for are used extensively across the property, the more basic protocol for the environmentally conscious seems to be cast aside. Does no one pick up after themselves? Do the staff at Duke Farms perceive themselves as ‘above’ providing such a service to the land?

Next, the technology that Duke Farms uses is indeed state-of-the-art, but it is not the first time it was implemented. According to research, while these technologies like geothermal heating apparatuses and solar powered waterfalls are indeed environmentally conscious, they have been used by other locations before Duke Farms applied the concepts in their ‘revival’ of the sprawling estate. Geothermal energy specifically, has an extensive history dating back as far as the 1800s. Click Here for Info about Geothermal Energy
Let’s keep in mind that these changes to the now-visitor’s center took place in 2012, not 1904.
Another powerful component of Duke Farms’ energy conservation and renewable energy is their expansive use of solar panels. But, these two have been used for years prior to their renovations. Although discovered in 1876, solar cell energy didn’t gain practical applications until 1953 when the industries began using the energy source in toys and radios. For another history synopsis, please Visit The Site Here

So let’s move on to the plant life: the very mission statement from article 2A1-2 in Miss Duke’s will delegates that the ‘parks area’ should be used to protect and encourage the growth of endangered flora and fauna. Why then, is this so viciously cherry-picked too? Instead of seeing the estate as Doris maintained it, (with her and her father’s choice of plant life), it has been left to indigenous weeds… or so the foundation claims. Upon closer inspection from those who have a horticultural background, dozens of trees, shrubs, and other assorted foliage have no such roots in New Jersey: and that’s the way the Dukes wanted it. Hosting foreign plants in the Gilded Age was a way to display wealth, describe travels, and learn about nature as it occurs in different localities. In a vicarious way, these non-native plants served to educate visitors and guests of the Dukes about faraway places.

Much has yet to change at the Duke Estate. We look forward to following the journey it will take to bring back similar splendor to the property. Until next time, stay curious, darlings! We hope to see some of you at the Afternoon with Doris event this Saturday at the Somerville United Reformed Church at 2pm. For more information, please email dorisduke1932@gmail.com

In this exclusive column of the Trials of Doris, we have taken a severe interest in the blemishes that the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation gave itself. Of these, we are going to explore two conversation starters: noncompliance with the last will and testament of its benefactor, and the curious case of a loan from the state, even though this private charity doesn’t accept money.

The first portion, regarding non-compliance to the final will and testament of Doris Duke herself, is probably the most inappropriate of all their actions. Think of it in simplest terms: a tenant (the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, DDCF) signs a contract (the will in which the foundation was created). The will is a legal document. So if we abide by basic laws, failing to adhere to a contract means that deviant actions are subject to penalty. By that very generic legal staple, several aspects of Miss Duke’s will have been violated.

First, 2A2 of the will indicates that the ‘parks area’ which we are all familiar with, is to be used to “provide an enclosure to protect endangered species of all kinds, both flora and fauna, from becoming extinct”. Why then, was there a hunt permitted after her death to remove the animals from her farm? Albino deer, swan, other waterfowl and creatures disappeared. Congruent with this discovery, any visitor to the farms can see the deer fence erected around the entire property that now forbids deer entry to the area, where they once roamed freely. We don’t ever hear of the Doris Duke Foundation for the Preservation of Wildlife. It should, but doesn’t, exist. Ironically, the directions for the Somerville estate (Duke Farms) are first on the will, probably indicating that it was her greatest priority, regardless of what the tabloids suggest. Reference her will here.

Furthermore, what has become of the Duke Gardens Foundation? This Foundation was cited in the will also. Similarly to the foundation established specifically catered to the preservation of endangered species, this subdivision of the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation has mysteriously faded as of 2008. Why? The Princeton Packet reported on April 11, 2008, making the erroneous statement that, “According to foundation sources, the day of the display gardens is past. They consume an inordinate share of financial and staff resources, they would require a very expensive modernization…” (Citation here) Certainly the storage shed it is used for now far better  reflects the love that the Duke family had for nature and its beauty. What gives the DDCF the authority to cherry-pick and terminate programs that were set forth to be adhered to?

Now let’s talk about that loan. One of the greatest and most timeless characteristics we advocate for at the Retro Revival is authenticity. Here, we observe something contradictory: $55 million dollars is nothing to scoff at, even for a charitable entity worth close to 2 billion dollars presently. This loan and bond deal was set up by Duke Farms to pay for the ENTIRETY of the work for the restoration of the Farm Barn orientation center and other changes made to accommodate visitors in 2009. The New Jersey Economic Development Authority was used to acquire these funds, which were our tax dollars. The Farms did not raise any money for these renovations. So is this a private charitable foundation, or is it truly supported by state-generated loans? Unfortunately, it can’t be both. If we use this logic and ask them to borrow more money, why aren’t the greenhouses or her residence being restored and preserved for visitors in the same, equal, and just fashion?

Let’s just say the financial inconsistencies don’t stop there. The foundation refuses to charge fees for tours of the mansion as suggested by the public, and during the destruction of the Garden of Nations, they also claimed to be in the process of a completely free visitor’s experience. Why then does their website advertise programs that people can sign up for? These programs aren’t cheap either!

Now, dear readers, the half-truths become whole truths. Keep up the good work, DORIS.

In the eleventh article revolving around the inappropriate antics of the internationally acclaimed Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, DORIS makes a rousing comeback in the process to save Duke Mansion. The estate, still intact in Hillsborough NJ, has suffered some serious internal changes since December. Although the Duke Farms Foundation did receive permission from the township’s historic preservation commission to demolish the iconic home (the last of the industrial barons’ estates nationwide), the DFF did not apply for a permit until fairly recently. Instead, they chose to dismantle the home from the inside out. In doing so, several doors, windows, and mantles made their way to an architectural salvage firm in Barnegat, NJ. Research is being done to determine the connection between the DFF and the salvage firm, Recycling The Past.

The ancient Arabic fountain once located in the palm room has reportedly been sent to Rough Point in Rhode Island for safekeeping with the rest of the un-auctioned Doris Duke collection. Confirmation of its whereabouts is pending…

The Retro Revival is also very pleased to announce that merchandise for the DORIS group will be readily available soon.

Extended comparative research also brought the DORIS group to analyze other ‘rogue’ nonprofit groups, such as the one responsible for Muhlenberg Hospital. While an analysis by an independent is available here, some similarities in behavior by the foundations in charge include the expanse of land that each is responsible for. More information is slated to follow.

Please also mark your calendars for February 20th; the DORIS group will be hosting a large event. Further details will be published as they are announced.

Another great stride was made this week in the filming of the emotional “Bring Doris Home” video, provided by DORIS members. The entire process was devised and executed through amateur means, and we look forward to the next in its series to be released at a later date. Although not promotional, this video expresses the loss that this community has felt every step of the way in this heart-wrenching process. Quite honestly, there is no need for a specific message here; the emphasis throughout the video was trying to find what’s missing from the estate. What we miss and long for the most is the one thing we have to fight for. So please, if you are reading this for the first time, help this noble grassroots movement bring Doris home. Save Duke Mansion. This is the clip:

Our next newsletter will include the investigation on several curious actions that the DDCF has spearheaded over the years. Further details will emerge by the end of the week. In the meantime, please feel free to sign up to receive email updates for the Retro Revival, like us on Facebook, and add your comments here. We are also pleased to announce that Harpie has learned to embed media for your convenience.

In a most recent update from DORIS and the fight to save Duke Mansion, the Retro Revival is pleased to announce that on Friday (tomorrow) there will be a conference held between parties and a judge that can delegate a ‘stay’ against all actions made in attempts to demolish or further dismantle the historic main residence at Duke Farms.

We also confirm at this time that further actions to prove unjust activity at the Farms and by the hands of the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation will be taken by members of the DORIS group and beyond- several activists agree, summarizing that “we will not stop until the right things begin to happen for Dukes, and we won’t stop until we feel that goals will continue to be met in the likeness of the Dukes, not the big shots in charge now”. Other DORIS members also released that the recent pro-Foundation press is likely being used to repair the tarnished reputation of the DDCF, but don’t be fooled. The actions at the estate in Hillsborough will not be forgotten, and things have only just begun to change for the better at the ever-beautiful Duke Estate.

Just as things are about to get exciting for 2016, STAY TUNED! New updates and big reveals are coming up in 1 week!

This week marks a Christmas milestone in the progress of the DORIS group. Reporter Gene Robbins of the Hillsborough Beacon, a local paper that has followed our story since its conception, sums it up perfectly in his latest composition here:http://www.centraljersey.com/news/hillsborough_beacon/hillsborough-final-curtain-about-to-fall-on-duke-mansion/article_3003c5dc-a8fe-11e5-8bf5-e362e9a4a699.html

We consider this his best yet! A thorough analysis has been conducted by Gene that catalogues the highlights of the plaintiff and defendant perspectives. Just in time for the holiday season, the Trials of Doris will resume in 2016. Thank you for your continued support!

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!

On this day, November 22nd, one hundred three years ago, Doris Duke was born of Nanaline Inman Duke and James Buchanan Duke in New York City. The couple decided to raise her here in Hillsborough (Then often called South Somerville), and the rich young girl fell in love with her environment. It was this location she called home ever since. Her life was filled with adventure, expedition, livelihood, happiness, and celebration. But, like any other human, she also lamented, lost, experienced sadness and hurt. Whenever she needed reprieve from the turbulence of life, (whether overwhelming in a good or bad way), Miss Duke would retreat home, encompassed in 2,760 acres of familiar land, far from the inconveniences of fame and interested reporters.

Why, in the wake of its destruction, does it matter that today is Doris’s birthday? The answer is deceptively simple. Instead of thinking about Doris Duke as an image of fame and paparazzi, we can also consider her for who she was to Hillsborough. We talk about pride in our roots, but that also means we must honor our roots. Miss Duke serves as a magnificent example of using wealth in beneficial ways to all persons who have lived their lives in this area and went off to make a difference in this world. For instance, many of my own peers from years ago in high school talked about their ambitions to see the world and pursue grand careers that affect the lives of others. Doris was before my particular cohort’s time, but her story outlasts time. We all have the power within ourselves to make a name for our hometown here, and we all can find ways to impact the lives of others. Our names will be remembered not only by what we’ve done, but also by how we made others feel. Miss Duke’s legacy lives on in her father’s likeness; when I interviewed her former employees and friends, I realized how easy it was to connect with her selflessness and ambition to make others happy.

This year on Doris Duke’s birthday, the locals of Hillsborough, Somerville, Bridgewater, Raritan, and all localities across the globe can honor her legacy in two ways. Of course, you can choose to participate in the saving of her home #SaveDukeMansion by signing our change.org petition or donating to our funds at GoFundMe (or directly to our new account for DORIS), but there is more. To truly pay homage to the philanthropic icon herself and her undying spirit of generosity: take time to give to others. In the face of so many events happening everywhere, what better way to change the world than by changing one life at a time? This is especially true in being a part of the community. She longed for a community and a family. Maybe it’s time we show her that this is possible from wherever my dear readers are.

November 22nd. It’s just another day. But every day is only as meaningful as you make it. In this tumultuous time of betrayal and uncertainty, I think that showing her that people still care is the greatest way to honor her legacy. Why not start our own stories out right? History teaches us amazing things, after all. This is why it should never be allowed to be erased. Especially by the hands that were entrusted to preserve it. My advice for the DDCF and all its affiliates as of this lovely 103rd celebration? Start thinking of others instead of yourselves and your personal visions, because this is not meant to be about you. Everyone deserves to know they will always be cared about by someone so let’s keep her spirit alive in our selflessness and kindness. Happy Birthday, Doris Duke.

And so with the quick swipe of a pen (or in this modern age, the gentle cadence of a pattering keyboard), the Trials continue into a new chapter of determined advocacy to save the Duke mansion at Duke Farms. Instead of being ‘gracious losers’, the grassroots movement has decided to be a righteous persistence. DORIS and its members have just recently filed a legal appeal against the decision to demolish the historic house of Doris and James Buchanan Duke to the local board of adjustment. What is next? Many people ask where things will be headed from here and whether or not the cause is dead.

At the Retro Revival, we admire the unyielding efforts of a group driven to preserve the past and emphasize its echo for the future. This cause is far from being dead. In fact, the outreach and interest has been spread across 4 continents and a large charity event on the early horizon of 2016 is in its infancy. Still skeptical? Check out the latest media coverage! http://www.fios1news.com/newjersey/duke-home-preservation#.VkDDs7erTIV The Associated Press is also credited with producing another article on the appeals process. Several local internet newspapers have covered snippets as well. For more information, please contact dorisduke1932@gmail.com or post your comments on this blog for the editors!

Stay informed, stay active. DORIS members! Please take this time to post all your comments here and on the Retro Revival’s Facebook page! This is your time to be a part of history!

The momentum still hasn’t diminished in the internationally publicized Hillsborough NJ. As of the Pre-Halloween festivities in this charming rural town, there is more bustle than ever as the appeals process begins on a high note. The DORIS group, the grassroots organization that has taken the international community by storm, has made the unanimous decision among its members to pursue the Trials of Doris further in a grand attempt to save the mansion at Duke Farms.

In this first segment of the process, a few appointed members were asked to give brief segments about the crisis to a new committee; the township committee. These members are of different political backgrounds and are appointed by the people’s votes per election. With the new faces in the local courtroom, 5 members of DORIS began their speaking points. We asked for a 6-month moratorium to be imposed if not to rescind the vote for demolition entirely. Questions were raised by several members about the careless demeanor and bias that may have been present at past historic preservation commission meetings in hopes to bring to fuller light to the scenario presenting itself to the township’s subordinate committees.

Further investigation was offered by the township attorney to determine whether or not the township committee has legal authority to override the advise of the historic commission. Overall, the consensus was made that this group of officials is far more receptive and willing to engage than the last. Questions were asked, conversations were struck, and while not all points were agreed upon, the dialogues were healthily back and forth, reciprocal, and the exchanges were more open than what the DORIS group experienced before. The portrait of Miss Duke hung behind us all, patient as ever to observe the fate of the person it depicts.

Anyone who would like to assist in the appeals process can visit our GoFundMe site or if you haven’t already, please go onto the Change.org petition and add your name to our family of support.

Updates will be available by November 6th. Thank you dear readers for the patience you have with my sporadic posts. At this time, the process is broken up into bits and pieces, and so I can only give so much information out at a time. Stay tuned!

The postponement of the last meeting has brought us all together again on October 15, a meeting outside the normal agenda of the Hillsborough Historic Preservation Commission. Anxious, weary, or otherwise impatient, Duke Farms and the opposition (DORIS and the majority of the community) sat down in the courtroom again. The sense of urgency for genuine diplomacy from the farms radiated strongly through the air. In the last weeks, it was discovered that Duke Farms prohibits the Boy Scouts from the property, and that the supposed ‘cherry picking’ of information and other actions that are non-congruent with Miss Duke’s caliber of preservation have only been validated. The question of the mansion has erupted over into questions about the intentions of the Charitable Foundation and the Farms, the credibility of the overseers of the land, and even the legal appropriateness of the township for “not telling its residents enough about what’s going on until its too late”. So the question that Retro Revival is now asking: What now?

Unfortunately the decision of the historic commission was in agreement to allow the applicant its demolition permit, but the grassroots organization, DORIS, (whom the RetroRevival endorses) is still very active in the next stages of appeals and other community-rousing activities. What can you do? Check out DORIS’s sites online! Help us do the very best job we can in making history count!

https://www.change.org/p/duke-farms-foundaton-preserve-the-duke-mansion

https://www.gofundme.com/dorisdukemansion

This is a very feasible way to make a large difference. Thank you for your support!

In the meantime, for all my readers who were unable to make it to the fateful October 15th meeting, it was a whirlwind of events. The press swarmed the local courtroom… but so did local politicians, raising question in the grassroots organization and assorted residents as to whether or not this entire ordeal had political embers burning underneath it. The question of the integrity is still in question and is currently being investigated, but the information is limited at this time. The intentions of the DDCF, the mother-nonprofit of Duke Farms, is now also presenting itself after its president made himself appear as a speaker on behalf of the demolition on Thursday evening. The skepticism is still high, and steadily rising again after the vote to demolish was granted almost unanimously in the absence of documented evidence from the Farms.

Stay curious and stay active! This is a worthy cause!