Whitney Park Auction Features Unique Items
As one of the largest privately owned land parcels seeks a buyer, many items from the historic Whitney Park in the Adirondacks are set to be auctioned off soon.
Blanchard’s Auction Service in Potsdam is managing an online auction later this month. The auction features items like old hickory furniture, numerous guideboats, a variety of duck decoys, fine art, and more from Whitney Park.
The 36,000-acre estate near Long Lake has been on the market for over a year now, with a listing price of $125 million. A Texas developer was interested in purchasing Whitney Park last year, but that sale did not go through.
Kip Blanchard, the auction organizer, has made several visits to the property to gather items for the sale.
BLANCHARD: Whitney Park holds a lot of significance. Not many have ventured back there. This land has remained in the same family since the late 1800s, and it’s wonderful just to explore. There are several impressive camps as well as lakes and rivers.
RUSSELL: So, you visited a few times to gather these items. What was that experience like?
BLANCHARD: Yes, indeed. We made a couple of trips to survey the items and finalize our proposal. Reaching the site was quite the journey—about a half-hour drive along a dirt road. It was definitely more challenging than usual.
RUSSELL: What caught your attention while you were there, particularly regarding the furnishings?
BLANCHARD: It was a bit overwhelming to see how much needed organizing. We ended up taking 25 boats along with over a hundred pieces of old hickory furniture from various buildings; it was a substantial haul.
RUSSELL: Can you share more about particular items that will be auctioned?
BLANCHARD: Among the most remarkable pieces are paintings by Marylou Whitney of fish caught on Salmon Lake. They have a folk art style that adds charm, as they portray the guide who was fishing that day. Also, there’s a silver-engraved walking stick belonging to William Whitney, the founder of Whitney Park. It’s quite fitting, don’t you think?
RUSSELL: How accessible are these items? Could locals afford anything in this auction, or is it more for those furnishing grand retreats?
BLANCHARD: There’s a broad spectrum of items. Some are for everyday folks looking for a souvenir, while others cater to the higher end. Prices range from $50 to $50,000, offering something for nearly every budget.
RUSSELL: What’s one of the most valuable items in the auction?
BLANCHARD: A standout piece is definitely a Ralph Cahoon painting. Though it’s not from the Adirondacks—it’s actually from Palm Beach—it’s very sought after. His work is highly collectible, and there’s a museum for it in Cape Cod; it will surely be a highlight of the auction. Also, some guideboats are noteworthy; while some are in good condition, others need restoration but carry historical significance from Whitney Park.
RUSSELL: Can you elaborate on how the auction will work and when people can visit the items?
BLANCHARD: Sure! People can preview the items online, but we’ll have an in-person viewing on August 11th to 13th in our auction hall in Potsdam. Everything will be displayed, from artwork to furnishings. There are buyers from all over the country who can also bid online. The actual auction will take place online on August 14th at 10:00 a.m., starting with closing out the lots—expect it to last around 8 to 10 hours. Just remember, it will be entirely online; there won’t be an in-person auction.
