To some, it might have seemed an unruly patch of tangled pinewood wetland. But when Theo and Barbara Harvey looked out the back windows of their Christwood residence, they imagined the possibility of transforming it into a sanctuary where nature could be quietly enjoyed along rustic trails dotted with inviting benches.
The Harveys spent much of their time working to transform this treasured space for their Christwood neighbors. Seeing this, members of the Harvey family thought a meaningful way to remember Theo and Barbara would be to continue their work. To finance the creation of a more permanent and accessible destination for nature lovers or for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience, the family created a matching-fund challenge to the Christwood Foundation. What was once known simply as The Trace aptly became the Harvey Trace.
Continuing the legacy of Barbara and Theo Harvey and their family, Barbara Beauchamp has also been a key contributor to the successful transformation of an acre of dense woods and wetlands at Christwood. The nature sanctuary’s design included additional elements — an elevated walkway and pavilion, an entrance archway and additional work on the trails — that still needed funding. A frequent hiker of the Harvey Trace, Barbara set out to find a way to make those additional enhancements a reality.
After exploring her options, Barbara made a generous donation to the Foundation. In 2020, the principal elements were completed. By giving the Foundation a portion of her refundable entrance fee, Barbara created a lasting legacy in Harvey Trace to be enjoyed by residents and their families for generations.
To enhance the nature sanctuary, the friends and family of Scutter Murphy honored the long-time resident and Christwood Board Member by funding the creation of a new outdoor pavilion and naming it after him. It offers a sheltered place for residents and their families to relax and enjoy the wildlife, fresh air and lovely wooded surroundings.
Residents are grateful for the opportunity to enjoy a quiet moment, a peaceful stroll, an outdoor lunch or evening wine and cheese on the Harvey Trace. It was made possible by the vision and determination of some very special people.
2025 Update: In spring 2025, the Beauchamp Bridge was dedicated to honor Barbara Beauchamp’s legacy and contribution to the Harvey Trace project on our campus. Christwood residents, friends and family members who attended the celebration enjoyed touring Harvey Trace while honoring and reminiscing about all the wonderful residents who have had a hand in creating this beautiful nature sanctuary on our campus.