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Restoration and Evolution of the Historic Gardens

The existing gardens were created primarily between 1920 and 1936 and while such notable designers as the Olmsted Brothers Firm, Florence Yoch, and Paul Howard were involved, the guiding influence was Florence Bixby the last of the Bixby family to call the ranch home. The elegant gardens are notable for the way in which they extend a modest domestic tranquility into the garden. There are no really rare plantings. Rather, the restrained palette in combination with the beautifully dimensioned spaces, gives quiet strength and character to the garden. Created in an age of flamboyance, the gardens represent a remarkable personal aesthetic at ease with the relaxed dictates of outdoor living.

In 1986 when Rancho Los Alamitos Foundation assumed responsibility for the restoration and operation of the site, the gardens were quite deteriorated. As part of its Master Planning Program, the Foundation created a nationally recognized comprehensive Plan for the restoration and maintenance of the garden based on extensive research using the archives at the site. The Plan has been steadily implemented over the years and its principles continue to guide the sensitive management of the landscape.

The following series of slides illustrates the evolution of the gardens over time. To pause the slideshow, roll your mouse over an image or onto its navigation button (circles below the slide show). To resume the slideshow, move your mouse off of the image or any of the navigation buttons.

  • Cutting Garden Before Restoration
  • Cutting Garden Today
  • Cypress Patio 1928
  • Cypress Patio Today
  • Friendly Garden 1928
  • Friendly Garden Restoration
  • Friendy Garden Today
  • Geranium Walk 1928
  • Geranium Walk Today
  • Grape Arbor 1928
  • Grape Arbor 1975
  • Grape Arbor with Storm Damage
  • Tennis Court and Grape Arbor After Restoration 2008
  • Jacaranda Walk 1928
  • Jacaranda Walk Today
  • Native Garden 1928
  • Native Garden Today
  • Oleander Walk 1928
  • Oleander Walk Today
  • Rose Garden 1928
  • Rose Garden Today
  • Secret Garden 1928
  • Secret Garden 1984
  • Secret Garden 1986
  • Secret Garden After Restoration 2005
 

 


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