Friends of RHP 2026
Two migratory bird hikes on Saturday, May 9, 2026, 7:00-9:00 a.m. and 9:30-11:30 a.m., at Richfield Heritage Preserve. Attendees will meet by the Summer Barn (4225 Oviatt Road park entrance). Professional birder Fred Dinkelbach will review some basic birding skills and then lead attendees on a 1-1/2 mile hike through the different park habitats. The hikes will be held rain or shine so dress for the weather. Suitable hiking footwear, insect repellant, binoculars, and a reusable water bottle are recommended.
While the event is free and open to the public, attendees are asked to RSVP via Eventbrite at: https://2026MigratoryBirdHike.eventbrite.com. Walk-ins, however, are always welcome.
While the event is free and open to the public, attendees are asked to RSVP via Eventbrite at: https://2026MigratoryBirdHike.eventbrite.com. Walk-ins, however, are always welcome.
Mill Docent Training - FREE for the Mill-Curious of all ages
Mill Docents are volunteers stationed near Kirby's Mill on Sundays, May through October from 2pm to 5 pm. They may work alone or with a buddy. Most people have never seen a mill with a turning water wheel. Docents give interested visitors a welcome and a short introduction. You do not have to be an expert! Although the session material is geared to adults and potential volunteers, interested kids and teens may attend with a responsible adult.
Training will take place on two different dates. It's your choice which one you would like to attend: either Saturday, May 9th at 4pm OR Sunday, May 17th at 5pm. Led by Friends of RHP Historian, Lynn Richardson. The first part of the training is an introduction to the story of inventor Jim Kirby and his mill. The second part covers the logistics of being a docent. There is no obligation to volunteer afterwards! Meet at KIrby's Mill. Dress for the weather and BRING A CAMP CHAIR.
IF you are already a trained docent you do not need to attend- but you are welcome if you want a "refresher". Let Calista know which days you would like to be at the mill.
Further questions? contact [email protected] / 440-667-3367
Mill Docents are volunteers stationed near Kirby's Mill on Sundays, May through October from 2pm to 5 pm. They may work alone or with a buddy. Most people have never seen a mill with a turning water wheel. Docents give interested visitors a welcome and a short introduction. You do not have to be an expert! Although the session material is geared to adults and potential volunteers, interested kids and teens may attend with a responsible adult.
Training will take place on two different dates. It's your choice which one you would like to attend: either Saturday, May 9th at 4pm OR Sunday, May 17th at 5pm. Led by Friends of RHP Historian, Lynn Richardson. The first part of the training is an introduction to the story of inventor Jim Kirby and his mill. The second part covers the logistics of being a docent. There is no obligation to volunteer afterwards! Meet at KIrby's Mill. Dress for the weather and BRING A CAMP CHAIR.
IF you are already a trained docent you do not need to attend- but you are welcome if you want a "refresher". Let Calista know which days you would like to be at the mill.
Further questions? contact [email protected] / 440-667-3367
Our guided wild flower walk led by Jennifer Windus was followed by a self-guided wildflower hike with online interpretation produced by Beth Sanderson and Terry Duncan.
Friends of RHP Advisory Panel member Chris Naizer promoted in h RHP's connection with wider local history in the following article published in the march issue of Hinckley, Sharon, and Granger Living magazine (published by Best Version Media)
As we begin 2026, we have a few projects proposals that have been submitted to RJRD:
- Repair of the suspension bridge at Kirby's Mill - part of the overall restoration. RJRD placed this part of the restoration on hold pending an in-depth review of construction drawings during the summer of 2025 and insurance review in April 2026.
- Repairs to, and painting of, Mill siding. On hold per the park director.
- Repair of the of the RHP perimeter fence - RJRD placed on hold until additional insurance obtained. Insurance issues were clarified in April; followed by as-yet-unspecified park requirements for worker certification for the project.
- Reconstruction of North House porch - waiting until RJRD decides what they wish to do with the structure.
- Hosting the 2026 regional conference of SPOOM* - Dependent on RJRD obtaining occupancy permits. * Society for Preservation of Old Mills.