In a poem, noted Harlem Renaissance writer Anne Spencer described her garden at 1313 Pierce Street as, “half my world.” An amateur horticulturist and landscape designer, Anne displayed a talent for garden structure and plant selection at her home in Lynchburg. The property has been designated a Virginia Historic Landmark and is included in the National Register of Historic Places
Hillside Garden Club undertook its restoration of the garden in 1983, providing financial assistance and labor. Currently the club has committed funds and manpower for a two-year project. Following recommendations from The Garden Conservancy assessment, we propose further commitment to the garden.
Our plans include: restoration of the fish pond and adjacent bench; replacement of the pergola with original turned-post design; redesign of the bed in from of the garden cottage; and installation of a digital auditory system. These projects will enrich the experience of visitors to a garden that was once frequented by such notables as George Washington Carver, Langston Hughes, Thurgood Marshall, and W.E.B. DuBois.
To complement earlier restoration and with recommendations from The Garden Conservancy Assessment in September 2008, Hillside seeks funds from the Common Wealth Award for implementation. It is our club’s mission to preserve Anne Spencer’s “world” as an inspiration for future generations of creative writers and horticulturists.
Please visit http://www.annespencermuseum.com/index.php
