Most Rochesterians know of Mr. Eastman but very few know of Dr. Henry Durand. Mr. Butler will explore the fascinating life of Henry Durand, his relationship with George Eastman, and the shocking twist that occurs once they donate their land to the City of Rochester. Durand Eastman Park takes on a life of its own in the years that follow. A tree museum, a beach house, a zoo, a golf course, and the “White Lady” ghost, all helped to create the Park that Dr. Durand had envisioned as “world class.”

In 2023, Jack Butler co-authored Mendon Ponds Park, Fairchild’s Dream with Diane Ham. Raised in Irondequoit, Jack decided to research the origins of Durand Eastman Park next. Its amazing history and promising future has resulted in a colorful 2024 publication, Durand Eastman Park: Yesterday and Today.