From the Archives: Bloedel Welcomes a Star

Since the Bloedel Reserve first opened its gates, it has welcomed thousands of visitors. Each guest is appreciated, but every so often, someone truly unique arrives. In 1981, the Reserve played host to an iconic figure of stage and screen: Katharine Hepburn.

A Remarkable Discovery

While researching in the archives last winter, I came across a personal letter tucked away in the third-floor rooms of the Bloedel Residence. It was addressed to Mr. Bloedel from none other than Katharine Hepburn herself. At first, I could hardly believe my eyes. A second look confirmed the truth — Hepburn had visited the Reserve, and the letter in my hands was her expression of gratitude for that unforgettable day.

A Chance Encounter

At the time, Hepburn was in Seattle for a theatrical performance. Her visit to Bainbridge Island is documented in a Seattle Times tribute by Ann Seiverton, owner of the Island Delicatessen and Creamery:

“When the glass door opened on the usual busy lunch hour at the Island Delicatessen and Creamery, I don’t remember who first noticed the unmistakable figure framed in the doorway, but we all froze and stared in astonishment.

There was Katharine Hepburn poised in the doorway, assured of her impact on all of us. As the owner of the gourmet food store, I introduced myself and welcomed her and Phyllis, her secretary, who at that moment was fussing over Katharine’s wispy hair.

They were going to picnic at an old friend’s house and would need sandwiches for lunch. Both Katharine and Phyllis were gracious and deferred to our food choices. We, of course, packed a banquet that Paul, their driver, put into the light-blue limo, already an attraction in Winslow.”

Ann recalls that Katharine enjoyed the ferry ride and mentioned Bainbridge reminded her of Connecticut. Phyllis even hinted they might return another day. A week later, Ann received a call asking for a suggestion for another picnic spot.

“It was pouring rain and very gloomy, but I settled on the Bloedel Estate, with which I was familiar,” Ann said. “I called the estate office with some misgivings. Mr. Bloedel himself returned the message, warmly inviting Ms. Hepburn to visit.”

A Memorable Visit

The visit was soon arranged. Cars were organized, guests coordinated, and the approach to the estate carried a sense of quiet anticipation.

“Miss Hepburn was speechless as we drove to the tea house, where a fire was burning in the fireplace and a lovely tea service awaited on the table,” Ann later recalled.

Hepburn insisted on meeting her hosts. As they drove down the main drive, they encountered the Bloedels coming up. Hepburn leapt from the car, and in a moment of grace, Mr. Bloedel reached for her hand, kissed it gently, and promised a walk through the gardens after lunch.

A Letter of Gratitude

The day clearly left a lasting impression. Shortly after, Mr. Bloedel received a handwritten letter from Katharine Hepburn:

Dear Mr. Bloedel,

What can I say to you which would adequately thank you for the really glorious time you gave us yesterday? It was a real treat walking those paths with you and seeing what you have done to make ponds, waterfalls, and remarkable vistas and color effects. From the moment we walked into the teahouse and found a fire going, I thought — this is going to be something.

Then the coffee, then meeting your wife by the redwood. Then your enormously tactful willingness to sit on the mat too — and, if you’ll forgive me for being personal — your wonderful face and expression. From beginning to end, it was an experience none of us will ever forget.

The remarkable simplicity of the long pond moved all of us. The colors of the rhododendrons and azaleas, the sweet little flowers like starflowers at the base of the trees, the candelabra primrose which I had not met before — all of it. The overall vision, of course, is the fundamental thing. What a real contribution you and your wife are creating.

Thankfully! I won’t forget it — or you.

Katharine Hepburn

(Note: Portions of the handwritten letter were difficult to decipher, so this is not an exact transcription.)

A Lasting Legacy

Katharine Hepburn said it best when she wrote, “This is going to be something… What a real contribution you and your wife are creating.” We couldn’t agree more.

–Written by Jane Carlin, Bloedel Volunteer

Sources

Photo of Ms. Hepburn by Len Tavares