The Bait Box

The Bait Box. BUILT: 1923-1926. , ORIGINAL USE: Built as a playhouse for Gifford and Cornelia Pinchot's only child, Gifford Bryce Pinchot, the Bait Box is a stone and frame structure that, in later years, served as a tea room for Cornelia., Named for the family's love of fishing, the Bait Box provided a quiet respite from the activities of the main residence. (Photo: circa 1960s), TODAY'S USE , Multiple use of the Bait Box today includes exhibit space for artifacts that help tell the story of the Pinchot family and Grey Towers and meeting space for those who want a retreat-like setting away from the activities of the main house to accomplish their natural resource, conservation and leadership work., OUTSTANDING FEATURES: , The stone wall on the east side of the small courtyard features an oval aperture overlooking the grounds., In the spring, this opening frames a blooming cherry tree planted by Cornelia Pinchot., [Top right] Original massive iron ring door knockers; two cast-concrete spiral columns; carved stone cartouche with dauphins above the door; stone forecourt with elliptical openings in each wall; porch with original decorative wrought iron railing., [Bottom right] Cornelia Pinchot's Long Garden with narrow pool was designed to draw the eye to the Bait Box and create a natural "hallway" to the "room"., FUN FACT: A blacksmith forge was set up in the basement for Gifford Bryce Pinchot who created a number of iron objects installed throughout the estate.