At the beginning of the 20th century, visionary Marcus L. Ward Jr. made a decision that would have historic consequences. He set up the considerable estate he had received from his late father, New Jersey Governor Marcus L. Ward (1865-1868), to create a place where mature gentlemen could enjoy their retirement years.
The executors of the estate soon acquired 50 acres in Maplewood, New Jersey, because of its scenic beauty and superior location. They traveled abroad to research the architectural masterpieces of Europe. They engaged the services of New York architect John Russell Pope, who designed the Jefferson Memorial in Washington, D.C. And they selected the landscape architecture firm of Frederick Law Olmsted, which had designed Central Park in New York City.
The result of this extraordinary vision and generosity was Ward Homestead. Opened on August 31, 1927, the community has since grown from a superior residence for 80 gentlemen to the present Winchester Gardens. A Continuing Care Retirement Community for people of all faiths. And of both genders.
With its mission to provide mature adults an active lifestyle that fosters dignity, privacy, individuality and independence in a caring environment, Winchester Gardens has far exceeded the dreams of Marcus Ward. And continues to do so. With a flourish.