A Hoosier Homestead Since 1838

A Living Legacy of Forest, Water, and Wonder

Our Roots

In 1838, when much of Indiana was still dense forest, our family’s story with this land began. Over the generations, White Deer Woods has been lovingly stewarded through the McCutchan/Clutter family line — from our Great Grandmother Emily McCutchan Clutter and Great Grandfather Ray Clutter, to our grandfather Raymond Orion Clutter, to his children Carol Clutter Gormley and Dr. Robert Clutter–and their brother, Dr. David Clutter–and now into the hands of R.O. Clutter’s seven grandchildren.

Though David’s life was cut tragically short, his love for these woods was profound. His memory remains part of the spirit of this place, carried forward in his honor, through his children and grandchildren–a guiding spirit in every walk among the trees.

This homestead has seen farming, hunting, and hard labor across the centuries; it has also stood as a place of memory, resilience, and renewal. Today, with the care of family and friends — from parents to siblings to the next generation — White Deer Woods continues as both a homeplace, a heritage farm, and a conservation forest.

A Rare Oasis

Once, forests covered nearly all of Indiana. Today, only 21% of those original forests remain. In that context, White Deer Woods is more than family land — it is a green sanctuary.

Our 300 acres of woodland, water, and wildlife form an oasis surrounded by farmland. Here, owls and eagles soar above the lake, and the rare white deer steps softly among the trees. Generations of wildflowers, songbirds, and native trees still find shelter here, just as families find a place of gathering and belonging.

White Deer Woods is more than a name: it is a symbol of the rare and precious life that persists when land is protected.

Our Vision for the Future

We believe the best way to honor our ancestors is to preserve this land for generations yet to come. White Deer Woods is growing into a place where heritage, ecology, and human spirit intertwine.

Legacy — establishing a conservation burial ground, where families can honor their loved ones in ways that protect the earth and restore the forest.

Conservation — safeguarding 300 acres of forest and water as lasting habitat for deer, birds, and countless native species.

Community — opening paths for retreat, reflection, and wellness; welcoming volunteers to help in wildlife rehabilitation; creating spaces to rest, heal, and reconnect with the land.

Our Vision for the Future

We believe the best way to honor our ancestors is to preserve this land for generations yet to come. White Deer Woods is growing into a place where heritage, ecology, and human spirit intertwine.

Legacy — establishing a conservation burial ground, where families can honor their loved ones in ways that protect the earth and restore the forest.

Conservation — safeguarding 300 acres of forest and water as lasting habitat for deer, birds, and countless native species.

Community — opening paths for retreat, reflection, and wellness; welcoming volunteers to help in wildlife rehabilitation; creating spaces to rest, heal, and reconnect with the land.

An Invitation

White Deer Woods is not just our family’s story. It is part of the living story of Indiana’s land and people. We invite you to join us — as a visitor, volunteer, retreat participant, conservation partner, or one who wishes to be remembered here.

Together, we can preserve a sanctuary of forest, water, and wonder for all who walk here — human and wild alike.