Post IV: Sunken Gardens

Driving through Lincoln several days ago I stumbled upon the Sunken Gardens. I only saw it in passing but I was instantly interested. The gardens stood out not only because of their beauty but also because they are so unexpected. In the middle of a bustling city one would normally not expect to find such a haven. When given this assignment, I knew that I wanted to return to the Sunken Gardens and spend a little more time exploring them. At the entrance to the garden the first thing that I noticed was the large elaborate metal dome engraved with a saying from one founder of the gardens, Ernest Bair. The inscription reads "I expect to make this spot the most beautiful place in the city, either in or out of the parks. The ground lends itself perfectly to the making of a sunken garden, and at the same time a spot rich in beauty.” In the time I have spent in Lincoln this is the most beautiful spot that I have seen in the city.
The gardens also have a very unique history. The project was started during the winter of 1930-1931 during one of the worst times of the Depression era. This project provided 200 jobs, helping men support for their families during difficult times. The garden was originally designed as a rock garden, featuring many rocky structures and waterfalls. A cast concrete sculpture, “Rebecca at the Well” was installed in 1936 and soon became a central element of the garden. Retired in 2004 because of deterioration, it was replaced by a similar sculpture by a local artist. Another striking area was the Healing Garden. Inspired by the famous White Gardens at Sissinghurst Castle in Kent, England, the white blossom are said to inspire calm, serenity and recreation. The gardens did not have quite that effect on me, but I really enjoyed visiting them and learning about their history.