Connections Across the Country: Bloedel Reserve and Old Saybrook, CT
–Written by Jane Carlin, Archives Volunteer
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of meeting Emma Burbank, Museum Coordinator at “The Kate”, the Katherine Hepburn Cultural Arts Center in Old Saybrook, Connecticut.
Emma Burbank, reviewing Katherine Hepburn’s thank you letter.
While planning a trip home to the Pacific Northwest, Emma came across our newsletter story about discovering Katherine Hepburn’s thank-you letter to Prentice Bloedel. Intrigued, she immediately reached out to arrange a visit and to see the letter in person.
The museum had no record of Hepburn visiting Bloedel Reserve, making the discovery especially exciting for Emma. It was a delight to share this unique piece of the Reserve’s history with her and make a new connection across the country.
Of course, the Reserve is grateful for every guest who takes the time to explore and revel in the beauty of this magical place. Emma’s visit also reminded me of another famous visitor who came to visit 13 years ago—domestic diva Martha Stewart!
In 2013, Stewart made a largely personal trip to the Pacific Northwest to attend the wedding of dear friends. During her visit, she toured the Reserve as well as several other private gardens in the region.
Martha Stewart, from The Martha Blog, at Bloedel Reserve in the Moss Garden
Steward returned to the Pacific Northwest several times, drawn to the area’s remarkable gardens. You can learn more about her visits on The Martha Blog, including a wonderful video of her walking through Bloedel Reserve’s Moss Garden with then-Director Richard Brown. She described the garden as “mysterious and magical” and we couldn’t agree more!
We’d love to hear from anyone who remembers Stewart’s visit or was involved in making it happen. If you have a story or recollection to share, please contact [email protected].
It’s always wonderful to discover the unexpected connections that link the Reserve to people and places far beyond Bainbridge Island!
