The Trustees

The Trustees of Reservations, known as The Trustees, is a Massachusetts nonprofit that protects and shares places of exceptional scenic, historic and ecological value. Its holdings include more than 120 reservations across the state, including trails, gardens, beaches, farms and historic houses, spread through the Berkshires, the Connecticut River Valley, Central Massachusetts, MetroWest, the Northeast, the region south of Boston, Cape Cod and the Islands, and Metro Boston.

Founded in 1891 by landscape architect Charles Eliot, the organization is widely recognized as the world’s first land trust. Its properties range from Cape Cod beaches to Berkshire landmarks such as the Mission House in Stockbridge, a Colonial-era house museum and garden that tells the story of the Stockbridge Mohicans, and to green spaces in eight Boston neighborhoods. The organization’s mission rests on the idea that nature and culture can improve people’s lives.

What to Know

• A membership provides access to the reservations plus thousands of programs and events.
• Gift shops and farm stores sell products online.
• A downloadable property map and checklist helps visitors track places they have been.
• Fall brings pumpkin and Halloween programs to many properties.