United States of America -- Iowa -- Linn County -- Cedar Rapids
Scope and Contents:
The folders include a worksheet, a garden plan, a detailed narrative description of the property and garden, a plant list, geological survey, copies of articles on Grant Wood, and photocopies of articles about the garden.
General:
The gardens at Pleasant Hill were inspired by the early architecture of the area and the designs of regionalist painter, Grant Wood. The residence was constructed in 1932 to reflect the architectural history of Iowa, using original structral elements from other houses and antique furniture. On December 20, 1989, the home was designated as a National Historic Site. At the entrance to the garden, Grant Wood designed a grape arbor. Stones from a quarry near Stone City, Iowa and a grist mill stone were incorporated into garden seats. The owner chose species of flowers and trees that are either indigenous to the zone or have proven successful through the harsh Iowa winters, producing a continuous show of color in summer, spring, and fall.
Persons and firms associated with the property and garden include: Bruce McKay (architect, designer, builder, 1932-?); Grant Wood (artist, 1933); and Mrs. E. W. Spence (landscape architect).
Related Materials:
Pleasant Hill related holdings consist of 2 folders (4 35 mm. slides)
Collection Restrictions:
Access to original archival materials by appointment only. Researcher must submit request for appointment in writing. Certain items may be restricted and not available to researchers. Please direct reference inquiries to the Archives of American Gardens: aag@si.edu.
Collection Rights:
Archives of American Gardens encourages the use of its archival materials for non-commercial, educational and personal use under the fair use provision of U.S. copyright law. Use or copyright restrictions may exist. It is incumbent upon the researcher to ascertain copyright status and assume responsibility for usage. All requests for duplication and use must be submitted in writing and approved by Archives of American Gardens. Please direct reference inquiries to the Archives of American Gardens: aag@si.edu.
Smithsonian Institution, Archives of American Gardens, The Garden Club of America collection.
Sponsor:
A project to describe images in this finding aid received Federal support from the Smithsonian Collections Care Initiative, administered by the National Collections Program.
