The Council of Independent Colleges: Historic Campus Architecture Project

Rose Garden

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Institution Name: Southern Vermont College
Original/Historic Place Name: Rose Garden
Location on Campus: directly in front of Mansion, overlooking Mansion Dr.
Date(s) of Construction:

1914	original planting Olmsted, Frederick Law, Jr.

Designer: Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr.
Type of Place: Landscape site
Style: (Glossary)
Significance: architecture, history, landscape
Narrative: see below
References: see below

Function:

1914-present (2006)

gardens (planned)

Narrative:
The formal gardens of the Estate are a significant part of the overall conceptual design by American landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr., and at one time, the grounds of the Everett Estate were extensively landscaped, with well-maintained gardens, shrubs and walkways.

Although the plantings in the garden have all but disappeared and the remains of the stone paved walks are overgrown, the basic structure of the steps, terraces and the overall landscaped architecture are still evident. On the north, east and south side of the Mansion a low stone wall defines the perimeter of the main lawns of the house. The broad lawn, stretching out in front of the Mansion, is a transitional space between the raised terrace and the formal garden below. The garden is reached by wide, inward curving steps with large circular landings providing commanding views over the valley to the east. From the garden's main overlook, Everett's well-located mausoleum at the Park Lawn Cemetery is in clear view.

Today, the Rose Garden is enjoyed by the public for picnicking and for its scenic vistas. It is also a popular site for wedding ceremonies and photographs.

References:

Chessman, G. Wallace, and Curtis W. Abbott. Edward Hamlin Everett: The Bottle King. Granville, OH: Robbins Hunter Museum, 1991.

Keefe, Tom. Building Diagnostic Report [Southern Vermont College]. North Bennington, VT: Keefe & Wesner Architects, [n.d.].

Resch, Tyler. Deed of Gift, the Putnam Hospital Story. Burlington, VT: Paradigm Press, 1991.

Warren, Suzanne. The Orchards [Southern Vermont College]. National Register of Historic Places designation report. Washington, DC: U.S. Department of the Interior/National Park Service, 2000.