Sunday Visit

 

 Sunday was a beautiful day! The weather was cool but with a warm breeze! Perfect for being outdoors and doing something special. We decided after Church to go to Old Westbury Gardens. This is such a nice way to spend an afternoon. It's about a half hour from my house and although Billy and I have been there many times, the kids were there several years ago and Caitlin has
no recollection of visiting at all. There is a mansion and gardens tour; all self guided.

 

 So pretty! Acres and acres of flowers and gardens. There was even a thatched cottage playhouse for the little girl who grew up here. Her name was Margaret Phipps. Her Dad built the home in 1906. Margaret (Peggy) Phipps turned the house and grounds over for all to enjoy to the County in 1958. The family was very successful in the steel industry. They were a very well known family here on Long Island along with the Hicks family. You've seen my posts where I visit Hicks Nursery for many events throughout the year.

The flowers are amazing. Billy and I buy some at the annual Old Westbury Garden Plant Sale in April.

We spent about two hours just enjoying all the paths and walks.

The mansion had a ballroom and separate sitting rooms for the parents. There was a grand foyer and a beautiful glass enclosed sun porch. Years ago I had gone to a high tea in that room for a special event of viewing "play costumes" that Peggy Phipps and her brother wore to put on little shows for their parents and their parents' friends at parties. They showcased all types of costumes from the Statue of Liberty to a Milk Maid. It was fun sitting in the room and viewing these incredible mementos from the early 1900's and hearing Peggy herself tell of the grand garden parties of the 1920's. A great day I'll never forget. Peggy died at the age of 99.

 

 Thanks for sharing your home with us!A great piece of Long Island history!