The Colonial Garden Heritage at Rockingham
This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast:
November 7, 1783
On this day, General George Washington penned his historic Farewell Address to his troops at Rockingham, marking a pivotal moment in American history.
Today, this historic site continues to tell its story not just through its architecture, but through its meticulously maintained period gardens that offer visitors a living connection to our nation's past.
The story of Rockingham's gardens is as much about preservation as it is about historical accuracy. In the 1960s, dedicated historians and gardeners worked to recreate an authentic 18th-century herb garden, bringing to life the types of plants that would have sustained the Berrien family, their staff, and their distinguished guests - including General Washington himself.
Today's kitchen garden at Rockingham State Historic Site presents a practical glimpse into colonial life. Surrounded by a period-appropriate fence, raised rectangular beds burst with historical varieties of vegetables, berries, herbs, and flowers - each chosen not just for decoration, but for their culinary, household, and medicinal purposes. Climbing beans create natural tepees, while roses embrace the fencing with historical authenticity.
The site's horticultural heritage continues to grow, quite literally, through its expanding orchard. Eighteen trees representing three heirloom apple varieties now grace the east side of the property. A particularly touching addition is an apple tree grown from a sapling by longtime supporter Adra Fairman. Near the garden stands a historically significant Hawthorn tree, donated by the Children of the American Revolution - its thorns once served as clothing pins when metal ones proved too costly for colonial women.
For history enthusiasts and gardeners alike, the site offers a detailed plant guide in a wooden box near the mansion's staff entrance. This guide provides fascinating insights into the plants and their historical uses, perfect for visitors to peruse while waiting for tours or exploring the grounds.
Currently, Rockingham seeks to preserve this living history through its "Adopt-a-Bed" program, inviting individuals, families, and organizations to become hands-on participants in maintaining these historic gardens. Participants can help tend to beds that feature plants Washington himself might have seen during his stay, using period-appropriate varieties that have stood the test of time.
