The Jane B. Francke Bird Sanctuary, located on Brookville Road across from Muttontown Road, was given to the Village of Brookville in 1955 by Ada Francke Whitaker, in memory of her mother, Jane B. Francke, a well known early conservationist. At the NYS Fair in about 1926, Mrs. Francke staged what was probably the first conservation exhibit in this country. Her life-long interest and activity in education and preservation led to her receiving the Garden Club of America’s highest conservation award, the Frances K. Hutchinson medal in 1953, the year after it was awarded to Rachel Carson. Mrs. Francke died soon after, and a woodland sanctuary seemed an appropriate memorial to a woman so dedicated to preserving the natural world.

The site, a piece of Mrs. Francke’s land, was chosen mainly for its varied terrain, unusual plants and large trees. However, at that time, the county was considering the area for a drainage sump at the intersection of Muttowntown and Brookville Roads. The Whitakers and Village officials convinced the country that with sound conservation practice, a natural area would provide adequate drainage. (And they were right!)

The Village agreed to accept the land provided it was fenced in and that the North Country Garden Club (of which there are a number of Brookville members), would be responsible for maintaining the Sanctuary. The Village agreed to contribute an annual sum towards the cost of maintenance and pay the costs of public liability insurance and workmen’s compensation. The agreement between the Village and the NCGC was signed in June 1956.      Yet few residents seem to know much about this 3.8 acre parcel of woodland  — year-round home to dozens of bird species and all kinds of wildlife. For over 65 years, NCGC members have lovingly maintained the Bird Sanctuary by repairing fences and bridges and caring for the pavillion. The birds are fed all winter long by members. 

Although the Sanctuary has been open to the public year round from dawn to dusk, until recently, the Sanctuary could only be accessed by a key held at the Old Brookville Police Station.

But now that has changed. The Sanctuary has undergone a Phase 1 renovation which includes improved and safer parking for up to 5 cars. It also has a new walk-in, keyless pedestrian gate, new fencing and more woodland plantings and daffodils. Inside the Sanctuary, there are several walking paths of which one is currently open. (The Sanctuary’s underuse has made the paths a bit “rough” to navigate, but path clean ups will be part of Phase 2 to begin next year.) And even though the sign currently says “No Dogs,” we are experimenting with allowing them to enjoy a bit of nature, too. But they must be on a leash, under your control at all times and clean up is required — BYOB (bring your own bags).