A Lilac Sensation: Hulda Klager’s Floral Legacy
This botanical history post was featured on The Daily Gardener podcast:
May 2, 1928: A horticultural marvel unfolded as folks lined up to see the lilacs bloom at Hulda Klager's place in Woodland, Washington.
The air was thick with the intoxicating fragrance of lilacs, and a line of eager admirers stretched as far as the eye could see. They had come from near and far, drawn by the promise of a floral spectacle unlike any other.
At the heart of this botanical bonanza was the remarkable Hulda Klager and her exquisite lilac garden. As Jane Kirkpatrick eloquently penned in her novel Where Lilacs Still Bloom, Hulda's creations were more than just flowers; they were a testament to the enduring power of beauty.
"Beauty matters... it does," Hulda insisted. Her lilacs, with their vibrant hues and delicate petals, served as a reminder to slow down, to appreciate the simple joys of life, and to find solace in the natural world.
Hulda said,
God gave us flowers for a reason.
Flowers remind us to put away fear, to stop our rushing and running and worrying about this and that, and for a moment, have a piece of paradise right here on earth.
Word of Hulda's lilac gardens spread like wildfire, catching the attention of national publications. In 1928 alone, Better Homes and Gardens and the Lewis River News featured articles celebrating her horticultural achievements. The publicity was a resounding success, drawing thousands of visitors to Hulda's enchanting oasis.
On the day of the Lilac Days event, the garden was overwhelmed with admirers. Cars lined the road for nearly a quarter of a mile, and an estimated 2,500 people passed through the gates. The sheer number of visitors was a testament to Hulda's talent and the enduring appeal of her lilacs.
Today, Hulda Klager's legacy lives on in the Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing her remarkable collection. Visitors from around the world flock to the gardens each year, captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the lilacs that continue to bloom in her honor.
The gardens are open from 10 to 4 pm daily. There's a $4 admission fee - except during lilac season when the admission fee is $5.
