Book Review: Elsie's Paradise: The Reford Gardens

Elsie Reford began transforming the camp into a garden in 1926 when she was in her 50s. It was a passion that she would pursue for the next 30 years. From the very beginning, the gardens reflected her bold innovative style that drew upon English traditional garden design. They attract thousands of visitors a year, as much for the cutting edge garden installations as for the beauty of the site, which is located just south of the 49th parallel.

In addition to being testament to the garden's development over the decades, the book is lavishly illustrated with previously unpublished photos taken by Elsie's husband, who captured her work and the beauty of her gardens over the early years. It includes lush coloured recent photographs by renowned Quebec photographer, Louise Tanguay.

Alexander Reford, who has managed the gardens since 1995, is an historian by profession, having written numerous articles on Canadian history. This is clearly demonstrated in the elegant prose of the book. 

Elsie's Paradise, The Reford Gardens, is a must have for all who love gardening and are proud of our Canadian horticultural history.

Please contact the OHS or the author if you wish to republish these articles. © Ottawa Horticultural Society

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