2008 Tour Highlights
The 2008 tour was one of Garden Day's finest.
Twenty-two gardens were on display, and owners of thirteen of these properties
graciously agreed to also open their homes to tour attendees.
- Homes clustered between "The Avenue" and the Brandywine tell the story of Wilmington's prosperous mill villages and early suburbs. Visit the mill owner's mansion, his carriage house and modernized worker's homes, as well as beautiful gardens here and near Delaware Avenue.
- Nearby Wawaset, named "...one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the area" by Delaware Today magazine, is a National Register District-and the site of another Garden Day cluster-featuring large and small gardens in a mature setting. Even the public islands and circles are gardeners' delights!
- In Centreville, you'll find three very different gardens-all near the historic village-one with rare specimen trees and serene water features; one that integrates children's play areas with lush plantings; and one that is a professional landscape designer's own haven for creativity.
- Park the car and hop on our free shuttle to visit five country estates surrounding Hoopes Reservoir. History abounds-as do spacious gardens and beautiful views. Each home in this cluster will be open, so visitors can enjoy the well-planned integration of indoor design and outdoor gardens.
- At the Fell Historic District, you will see how four different home owners have met the challenge of gardening on the terraces and steep slopes next to Red Clay Creek. Visit 19th century country homes and their neighbor-a dramatic 1970s deckhouse. Our free shuttle will take you to each site.
- Two other properties-each a 'must see'-are located outside cluster areas, but still close by. In Brandywine Hundred, an ever-changing, nationally recognized garden and conservatory celebrates its 20th year on tour. Near Hockessin, a very special 'Cottage Garden' lights up its suburban neighborhood with thoughts of the English countryside.