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Garden Lovers, Rejoice! Spring Tours Resume!
By Alana Coons
March/April 2023
It’s important not to overlook the therapeutic power of beauty. Beauty is a form of emotional nourishment. – Dr. Sue Stuart-Smith, the New York Times, March 16, 2022
Get ready to step into a world of beauty with a SOHO garden tour that's sure to captivate your senses. Experience the delight of our Californian Arts and Crafts period landscape set amidst the stunning backdrop of the Marston House.
The 45-minute tour starts with a journey through time, taking you back to the early 1900s, when Samuel Parsons, Jr., and George Cooke first laid out the original landscape plan. Explore the historic plantings and see the first steps towards creating one of San Diego’s most intact historic gardens.
As you wander through this urban estate, the landscape evolves, revealing the beauty and elegance of a formal garden that was introduced in 1928. Historic amenities, like wrought-iron brought from Spain, colorful tile, and a tea house, enrich the garden’s ambience.
“At first the house stood alone in the midst of the ten acres of brush and native shrubs. The nearest access from a city street was at Sixth and Upas, but Mr. Marston built a road from there, graded the land, and set about establishing a garden. The ten acres was reduced to four when two additional homes were built on the northern portion, but so skillfully were these houses blocked out by trees and flower-covered walls, that the impression—even despite the often roaring freeway at the bottom of the canyon—is still one of spaciousness and peace.”
-Alice W. Heyneman, California Garden, December/January 1962
This tour is perfect for those who want to escape the hurried pace and demands of everyday life and immerse themselves in the tranquility of a lovely garden. You'll be able to relax, breathe in the fresh air, and let your senses be filled with the sights and smells of nature as you learn about the Marston family’s love of horticulture and landscape design.
Whether you're a seasoned gardener or someone who savors the beauty of the outdoors, this tour is a must. So come on, put on your walking shoes, and let us take you on a journey that's sure to inspire and delight.
And, if you are a history and garden lover who would like to join our volunteer garden docent educators, please reach out! Docent Application Form.
PURCHASE ADVANCE TICKETS
Cost $20
Online HERE
In Person Marston House Museum Shop · 3525 Seventh Avenue
Walk up tickets subject to availability
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