A celebration of roses at Wyck House & Gardens with our social media storyteller.
Photos in this article by Charity Sage
Looking back on this summer, one of my favorite days was a warm, sunny afternoon at Wyck House and Gardens in Germantown for the Celebration of the Roses. Of course all the flowers were in full bloom, and I couldn’t help but stop and smell each one. The air here, too, was filled with a vibrant floral fragrance, like the freshest perfume ever.
I got to join a short garden tour with Jackson Warren, who is in charge of all the plants at Wyck. He had so many interesting things to say about the different types of roses in the garden. One of the most unique roses there is the “Lafayette” rose. It’s named after the Marquis de Lafayette, who visited Wyck in 1825, and it’s only available at this garden. Blew my mind to think that it was planted almost 200 years ago!
Jackson also told us about other special roses, like the “Pink Leda,” which was brought to America by some of the first European settlers. Then there was the “Celsiana,” also known as the Germantown Damask or Tobacco Rose, because people used to mix its petals with tobacco. And the “Apothecary Rose,” which has been around since the Crusades, was known for its use in old-time medicine. I loved hearing all the stories behind these flowers — they all have their own unique history!
After the tour, I wandered around, checking out the different vendors and feeling good about all the wonderful artists and makers we have here in Germantown. I treated myself to a tasty iced tea from the Random Tea Room, and noticed others enjoying cold beer from Attic Brewing. There was a real sense of community, with everyone coming together to enjoy the day.
Before I left, I took a peaceful walk through the community-run garden. It was such a nice way to end a day full of beauty, history, and the simple joys of summer. I hope to make this a tradition to start off the season immersed in heirloom blooms and the warmth of neighbors.
🌸Wyck House & Garden🌸
6026 Germantown Ave (at W. Walnut Lane)
Grounds open thru November 16 *FREE*
Tues – Friday, 10am – 4pm; Saturdays 12 – 4pm
Wyck’s roses bloom through late October
PRO TIP: Check out September’s calendar at wyck.org for great events including the famous Philadelphia Honey Festival on the 7thth 🐝🍯😋.
☑️ Don’t forget to get your passport stamped! See below 👇👇👇
🙌 GAME ON! Historic Germantown challenges every Philadelphian to visit all 19 of their celebrated landmarks for special goodies and eye-opening encounters with the city’s past that you’ll never see at Independence Mall. Here’s where you’ll find ancient forests, colonial industry, and period furnishings of all classes, including a 19th century schoolhouse as well some exquisitely-preserved mansions and even an Underground Railroad hub. And yes, George Washington slept here too!
STAMP RALLY 2024: From now to October 12th, every time you come out to Historic Germantown you’re competing with other guests to fill your passport with stamps – one from each site. At the end of the rally, there’ll be a party where everyone’s stamps get tallied, and fun prizes are given out. The more stamps you get, the better your rewards! The best part is, a lot of these sites are free and also most of them host regular tours, events, and activities. For more information and a full list of attractions, see @historicgermantownpa Now let’s get out there and play with heart!
Be the first to comment