Professionally designed gardens were uncommon in the early 20th century, and female landscape architects extremely rare in a field that was traditionally dominated by men. Learn more about Amy Cogswell, one of the first female landscape architects in the United States and designer of the Colonial Revival Garden at the Webb Deane Stevens Museum. Cogswell attended the first American institution for women studying in her field, the Lowthorpe School of Landscape Architecture, Gardening, and Horticulture for Women, in Groton, Massachusetts. She graduated in 1916 and served as the school’s headmistress from 1916 – 1923. When hired by the NSCDA-CT in 1919, Cogswell’s plans for the Webb House Garden included classical elements, quaint arbors, and a wide assortment of the “old fashioned” flowers that were popular in the early 1900s. Garden Angels Coordinator Ann Foley will share details about Cogswell and her vision, the history of the garden, and how today a team of dedicated volunteers assist in tending to this beloved community treasure.

Registration is required.

About Ann:

Ann Foley is the Garden Angels Volunteer Coordinator for the Webb Deane Stevens Museum, a role she’s held for over 12 years. She leads a team of garden enthusiasts who assist head gardener Peter Winne in caring for the Museum’s gardens. She is also a former guide for the Museum. Ann plans the Garden Angels’ Annual Reception and festivities for the annual Connecticut’s Historic Gardens Day. She actively recruits new members and enjoys talking with visitors about her favorite plants in the garden, including the flowering almond, peonies, verbena, hostas, and sea holly.