Turning a Love of Birds and Volunteer Commitment Into a Lasting Legacy

Doris Countryman was one of a small but dedicated group of volunteers who helped run Wellfleet Bay Sanctuary during what's known as the "Farmhouse Days". The farmhouse was a rambling summer home of the Austin family, who operated a bird research station on the property before it was acquired by Mass Audubon in 1958. In its early days as a Mass Audubon Sanctuary, the house served as an office and gift shop.

In the 1980's and 1990's Doris served in what was one of the most demanding roles at the time: manning the sanctuary admission booth near the parking lot at field which is now occupied by the camp classrooms. "The booth was small, it got hot in the summer and it had those biting green-head flies." Described Bob Prescott, Sanctuary Director emeritus of those years of his tenure. It was also crowded with visitors asking questions about the sanctuary and about birds.

Doris was undaunted by the challenges and flourished in sharing her knowledge and love of birds with visitors. She volunteered for more than 20 years and her commitment of time and expertise helped Wellfleet Bay become what it is today.

When Doris passed away in 2019 at the age of 94, her son-in-law, David Podell shared with Mass Audubon that she had left a generous bequest to Mass Audubon for Wellfleet Bay to carry on her support of the sanctuary in perpetuity. Her bequest adds to Wellfleet Bay's endowment and helps it to continue to be welcoming place for future generations to visit and to learn about nature. In addition, it has left a legacy of caring for nature with her grandchildren, Sam and Kate, who were eager to visit the Sanctuary to learn more about what captured her interest and abiding attention to the place upon learning of her gift.

We would welcome the chance to hear from you if you have made plans for Mass Audubon in your estate or if you would like to learn about ways to have a positive impact through a bequest to Mass Audubon. Please get in touch with Betsy Townsend, Director of Gift Planning at: btownsend@massaudubon.org or by calling 781-259-2136 for more information or with questions.