Anne Spencer Garden

Lynchburg, Virginia

This garden is of national significance as a witness to an important period of African American history. It was a place of inspiration for the Harlem Renaissance poet Anne Spencer and a gathering spot for family, friends and distinguished African American visitors.  The garden was rehabilitated in the 1980s but by the 2000s had again deteriorated. Working for the Garden Conservancy, I organized a team of experts who identified readily achievable priorities and helped lay the groundwork for new support.  Recent achievements include restoration of the pergola and pool, renewed plantings, and Lessons Learned from a Poet’s Garden, a guide to restoring a garden.