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Dumbarton Oaks Garden Tour (Members-Only)
June 10, 2022 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Fountain Terrace. Courtesy of Dumbarton Oaks
DC Preservation League Members are invited to join us on Friday, June 10th from 10:00am – 12:00pm for an in-person tour of the gardens at Dumbarton Oaks, led by Director of Gardens and Grounds, Jonathan Kavalier.
Purchased by Robert and Mildred Bliss in 1920, Dumbarton Oaks is a Harvard University research institute, library, museum, and garden located in Georgetown. The Blisses were art and book collectors who gifted their collection and estate to the University in 1940. Dumbarton Oaks supports research and learning internationally in Byzantine, Garden and Landscape, and Pre-Columbian studies.
After purchasing the 1801 Federal-style house in 1920, the Blisses made significant renovations and added new expansions to the property, including its 53-acre landscape. The gardens were designed by renowned landscape architect Beatrix Farrand, who would work in close collaboration with Mildred Bliss for about 30 years, beginning in 1921.
Farrand was the only woman founder of the American Society of Landscape Architects and a prolific designer. She completed more than 100 residential works during her lifetime, as well as commissions for the White House, public parks, and several college campuses. According to Dumbarton Oaks, this garden may be the last remaining landscape in the country still adhering closely to Ferrand’s original design.
Space is limited for this tour and registration is required. This is a DCPL Members-only event. Note that you need to be signed in to your Neon account in order to successfully register. Not a member? Become one here or during registration.
Note on Accessibility: In keeping with its topography and historic design, Dumbarton Oaks’ hillside gardens present several challenges to visitors with mobility impairments, including steep inclines, slippery surfaces, loose gravel walkways, staircases, and other impediments. Accessible restrooms are located in the museum lower level and can be reached by elevator. Please contact DCPL in advance of your visit, if you require a specific accommodation.
