Parterre 2, Hampton Falling Gardens


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1879

On Parterre 2 to the west, Eliza Ridgely “being influenced by the prevailing fashion of the day” in Europe had the box-garden removed and introduced “bright colored coleus beds.” The distinctive plant in the center is an Abyssinian banana. Both images show Hampton’s staff of professional gardeners who maintained the formal gardens where literally thousands of blooming plants were displayed.

Gelatin Print on Paper. H 34.5, W 44.5 cm
Hampton National Historic Site, HAMP 15471