The Aslan Foundation Property Team has continued transforming the grounds of the Eugenia Williams House. We checked in with Coy Blair, the Eugenia Williams House Property Manager, for insights into the property’s progress and his favorite features to enjoy this spring and summer.
What is your background? What do you do as Property Manager at the Eugenia Williams House?
Coy: “My background is in wildlife and wildlife rehabilitation. I have a B.A. in biology from Maryville College and a M.S. in wildlife and fisheries science from the University of Tennessee. As Lead Curator/Operations Director of the Appalachian Bear Rescue for over 10 years, I accumulated a plethora of knowledge about caring for injured American black bears and orphaned cubs and yearlings. I was also tasked with keeping our facilities and grounds maintained and constructing new enclosures. Before that, I worked as a microbiological lab analyst after receiving my undergraduate degree and worked as a landscaping crew leader while in college.
As the Property Manager, my responsibilities include maintaining the 24 acres of the grounds and the structures. Currently, I am focused on site-related activities -historical trail restoration, planting, removing unwanted vegetation, etc. – and facilitating new construction/existing structure renovation where needed.”
What is a project you recently completed with the Property Team that you are proud of?
Coy: “Honestly, I am so proud of every project we have been a part of, but if I had to pick just one, I would say the Millstone Garden. There has been so much work to complete, but finishing this project was really cool. In a short time, we brought an area that will be a focal point for future guests back to life by planting over 7,000 plants. I cannot wait to see it next spring!”
What is the property team currently working on?
Coy: “Most days, we go 1,000 miles per hour trying to close out small tasks or chip away at the larger ones, so it’s all over the place. At EWH, specifically, we see the light at the end of the tunnel. We are focusing on finishing touches within the house and onsite and planning future work to stay ahead of the maintenance of the large property.”
What is your favorite part of your work at the Eugenia Williams House?
Coy: “My favorite part of working at the EWH is bringing historical features back to life and discovering their remnants after they have lain dormant for over 80 years.”
What are your favorite parts of the Eugenia Williams Property?
Coy: “The riverfront view is breathtaking while looking out over the newly emerging Pasture Savannah. Still, one of my favorite areas is along the west side of the property, along the Cane Patch Trail. This area is cool and secluded, and walking through the tunnel of river cane overhead just makes me feel at home as an outdoorsman used to hiking off-trail in some of the most remote locations. ”
