The Val Late Garden of Memories is a lovely and relatively new addition to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden.
A Place for Reflection and Beauty:
- Location: You'll find this garden near the iconic DeGolyer House, one of the architectural highlights of the Arboretum. It's conveniently situated along the Paseo, the main walkway that meanders through the gardens.
- Design: The garden was thoughtfully designed by landscape architects Walter Dahlberg and Steve Dodd. Their aim was to create a vista garden that beautifully frames the DeGolyer House while offering a serene and inviting space for visitors.
- Features:
- Open Views: The garden provides an unobstructed view of the DeGolyer House, showcasing its architectural charm.
- Stone Elements: Limestone is incorporated into the seat walls, landings, and steps, echoing the materials of the DeGolyer House and creating a cohesive look.
- Water Feature: A small, circular seating area surrounds a gently bubbling water feature. The sound of the water adds to the peaceful ambiance.
- Plantings: The garden is adorned with flowering cherry trees, vibrant George Taber azaleas, and seasonal blooms that change throughout the year. There are also crape myrtle trees, hollies, and a persimmon tree that provides beautiful fall color.
- Seating: Stone bench walls offer ample seating, inviting visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
A Garden with a Story:
- Dedication: The Val Late Garden of Memories was dedicated to Val Late by her daughter, Jan McMillan, her son-in-law, Dick McMillan, and their children. It's a tribute to her memory and a gift to the community.
- "Tres Amigas": Interestingly, the garden's location was chosen by three friends who walked the gardens weekly. They wanted to leave a lasting gift to the Arboretum and selected this shady spot with a great view of the Alex Camp House fountain.
Visiting the Garden:
- Atmosphere: The Val Late Garden of Memories offers a tranquil escape within the larger Arboretum. It's a place where you can sit and reflect, admire the beauty of the plants and flowers, and enjoy the soothing sounds of the water.
- Seasonal Changes: Because the garden features seasonal plantings, it offers a different experience throughout the year. You might see cherry blossoms in the spring, colorful azaleas in the summer, and the warm hues of the persimmon tree in the fall.
- Accessibility: The garden is easily accessible from the Paseo, making it a convenient stop during your visit to the Arboretum.
The Val Late Garden of Memories is a testament to the power of nature to provide solace and inspiration. It's a place where you can connect with the beauty of the natural world and create your own lasting memories.