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Kiftsgate Court Gardens

Just right down the road from Hidcote is Kiftsgate Court Gardens. This garden was created by Heather Muir beginning in the 1920s. Muir's daughter, Diany Binny, came to live at Kiftsgate in 1954. She would add the half-moon pool and redesigned the white garden. She also first opened the garden to the public. Today, the tradition continues as granddaughter Anne Chambers and her husband maintain the gardens.    Heather Muir was a friend and neighbor of Hidcote's Lawrence Johnston (their houses are within one mile of each other), and he inspired her in the garden's design. However, the two gardens differ in character and have their own unique characteristics. While Johnston's garden is laid out in strict geometric lines, Muir took a more naturalistic approach. Muir added many heirloom shrub roses to the garden and is famous for the 'Kiftsgate' rose, which occurred from a seedling in the garden. Unfortunately, we were too early for the roses. There were a few like t...

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

I don't know where Portland ranks when it comes to public parks but they have to be near the top of the list. According to Wikipedia, there are at least 279 public parks covering more than 10,000 acres. Pier Park, located in the St. Johns neighborhood, covers around 87 acres. It is characterized by mature evergreen trees. Our friends - Todd, Rebecca and McKenzie, who moved to Portland from Florence, Alabama last year - live just a few blocks from this park. Rebecca walks her neighbor's dogs here every day. The park is popular for walkers, joggers and fans of frisbee golf. The NBC televison series "Grimm" also films scenes here.


Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon

Pier Park, Portland, Oregon



Text and photos by Phillip Oliver, Dirt Therapy

Comments

  1. A beautiful park! Those trees, the incredible bark, the fern covered roof of the brick building are wonderful. When will you be calling Portland your home?

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  2. Picture #4 is a work of art! Great job, Phillip!

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  3. Another wonderful park in Portland! My lucky son lives there and likes to show me all the great places when I visit. There is never enough time!

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