What is considered the oldest commune in Vermont did not see itself as a commune. We learned this recently when Isabelle Fiske Calhoun died at the age of 94. Her death reminded us of the community in Rochester called Quarry Hill that she and her husband, Irving Fiske, founded in the 1940s. Quarry Hill is still there, and VPR’s Steve Zind visited recently to talk with the couple’s daughter. Isabella Fiske McFarlin, about Quarry Hill's legacy.
'A Paradise For Souls': Legacy Of The Quarry Hill 'Commune'
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A studio built by Fiske McFarlin's father Irving Fiske above the pond at Quarry Hill in Rochester.
Steve Zind / VPR
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Ladybelle Fiske McFarlin in front of her house at Quarry Hill.
Steve Zind / VPR
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Ladybelle Fiske McFarlin with a photo of her late mother, Isabelle Fiske Calhoun.
Steve Zind / VPR
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One of the rental rooms in the community building.
Steve Zind / VPR
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Rooms are availabe for rent in the Quarry Hill community building.
Steve Road / VPR
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The main room in the community building.
Steve Zind / VPR
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Two of the houses at Quarry Hill.
Steve Zind / VPR
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Steve Zind / VPR
