All the Presidents' Gardens: Madison’s Cabbages to Kennedy’s Roses―How the White House Grounds Have Grown with America , by Marta McDowell

 

Publication January 2, 2024

Fascinating read. I've now been through this book twice and highly recommend it to anyone with an interest in gardening and/or history. Heck, just a curiosity about the White House itself apart from its multiple residents. That 18-acre site has an interesting, often complex history all its own. You'll read about each of its residents from Abigail and John Adams through modern times. Even George Washington, who never lived there, had a hand in the design and what went into the infant gardens at the time of the building's construction. Known by many as the "People's House," each resident has had a hand in the gardens' evolution and change. From basic gardens through more modern days when, say, watering is handled via modern technology rather than workers. As noted, each Presidential family's contributions and changes are noted but I particularly enjoyed that the largely unknown individuals in charge of keeping the gardens well and productive were highlighted and noted. 

I'll also note that the book's focus is the gardens themselves. The plants, flowers, landscaping, and such are the key. In other words, it's non-political. I could go on rather endlessly about the fascinating topics discussed, from the sheep used to mow at one point up through modern times, but will stop there. The author obviously knows gardening and how to research. There are also abundant charts of what is planted, where and when, as well as a detailed index. And, yes, there are photos. Again, I liked that the photos showing some Presidents and families were largely outnumbered by those solely of the gardens themselves and those in charge. A nice reminder that the White House gardens are always evolving, always changing. For instance, ways modern technology have impacted the gardens and their care is noted. And....so much more.

Bottom line, if you enjoy gardening and/or history, you will probably thoroughly enjoy this book. I came at it from the history buff angle and found plenty to like, not to mention learned a bit about gardening and flowers and plants as I read. While there were certainly slow moments, probably due more to personal interests and knowledge than any shortcoming of the book, it was an interesting look at a place I've only viewed from outside the fence. Thanks #NetGalley and #TImberPress for taking me on a virtual visit behind the fence. I thoroughly enjoyed that backstage look, so to speak, and will be recommending this book to my local library.