Thoughtful musings on various topics by interesting people at Blithewold
Household Staff at Blithewold
Blithewold and other large mansions of its era were designed on the assumption that there would always be a plentiful supply of servants. Bessie Van Wickle McKee could not have maintained her large residences without … Read more.
Wintertime Garden Inspiration
January often heralds the official arrival of the winter doldrums. Gail, Joe, Fred, and I are here to offer a cure – inspiration for your gardening plans this year. Last year, we started our series … Read more.
Greenhouse Trellis
This past fall, Garden volunteer Bill Knipps and I built a bamboo trellis on the greenhouse wall of the potting shed. Gail wanted to try something different to catch people’s attention this winter, and all … Read more.
Fresh Snow
I was so excited on my drive into work today because last night’s snow created the most beautiful winter landscape. There is nothing quite like a freshly fallen snow to make the world feel clean … Read more.
John DeWolf
John DeWolf, Blithewold’s landscape designer, was born in Bristol. He was intimately connected with the Blithewold property from childhood, his DeWolf ancestors having owned the land which, in the 18th century, ran from Mount Hope … Read more.
Merry, Warm, and Bright
It has been positively frigid this week, which makes the warm humid atmosphere of the greenhouse an even sweeter relief than usual. Staff and visitors aren’t the only ones enjoying this indoor climate. Blithewold’s tender … Read more.
Walk in the Snow
Blithewold received its second snowfall of the year earlier this week, and unlike after the first, I knew I had to go on a short walk around to take it all in before it washed … Read more.
New Garden Planner!
If you are an avid reader of the horticulture blogs, you will know that Gail, Joe, and I all love to share our passion for the gardens and grounds here at Blithewold. We do this … Read more.
A Very Merry Christmas
Blithewold has thrown open its doors for the Christmas season, bringing the excitement of the season to all its visitors. After you have toured the elegantly decorated Mansion, soaking up the festive atmosphere within and … Read more.
Thanksgiving Reflections
Since it’s that time of year for giving thanks, I wanted to make a list of the plants I am most thankful for in our gardens. It is not a perfect list, but here is … Read more.