COURTESY SEVEN SPRINGS
CULTURAL LANDSCAPE
changing array of gorgeous flowers from the comfort of a gazebo just off of the path . Standout pieces from the diverse collection of American and Canadian sculptures at Seven Springs include the “ Belladonna ,” “ Continuum ,” and “ Venata II ” bronze sculptures by Richard Erdman , and “ Gallant Bess ,” a driftwood horse sculpture by Rita Dee .
The property where Seven Springs Garden & Sculpture Park is located has a history that is every bit as compelling as the statues themselves . The land was first settled in the 18th century . The land was farmed by local families for several generations , and was then acquired by the Doubleday family in the 1920s . In 1931 , the Doubleday Family sold the estate to Lowrie and Hortense Childs . Hortense Childs was a knowledgeable and dedicated gardener .
He passed on his love of gardening to his grandson , Pete , who continued to develop the gardens . In 1997 , Stan and Sylvia Stroup purchased the property from Pete Childs and his wife , Jane . In the years that followed , the Stroups made several additions to the gardens ,
and began installing sculptures throughout the property . Four years after his wife , Sylvia , passed away ( 2017 ), Stan Stroup opened the gardens - to the delight of Manchester ’ s visitors and residents alike . Members of The Garden Club of Manchester helped to facilitate the transitional phase when the sculpture park was first opening , and they have also served as greeters for visiting guests while working in a volunteer capacity . Seven Springs Garden & Sculpture Park is open on Thursdays and Saturdays from June to September . There is no admission fee , but donations are strongly encouraged , and reservations are required in advance . Reservations can be made through their website , and guided tours are also available upon request .
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