Walter D. Bellingrath, who had the inspiration to en-
vision a miracle of color and design in the woods sur-
rounding their rustic fishing camp on the Isle-aux-Oies
(Fowl River). Mrs. Bellingrath first planted azaleas
among the pines, oaks, magnolias, dogwood and hun-
dreds of other trees native to the region.

When spring came and splashes of brilliance flamed
through the quiet woodland, the Bellingrath's hearts
were lost, and they virtually dedicated the rest of their
lives to creating "The Charm Spot of the Deep South."

Today the Gardens have one of the world's largest
collections of azaleas and camellias, which still blend
happily with their naturally picturesque setting. Spring
flowers romp through the woods and are found in
formal, strikingly beautiful groupings. Summer blos-
soms and brilliant foliage plants give the Gardens a
semi-tropical lushness in the summer months, and
favorite autumn perennials join with camellias to give
fall its special poignance.

THE BELINGRATH HOME

Upon his death Mr. Bellingrath bequeathed the Gar-
dens and the old brick mansion which he and his wife
had built to replace the frame fishing camp to a Founda-
tion, whose profits go to help maintain schools and

churches. The Home had been filled by Mrs. Bellingrath,
before her death, with a fabulous collection of antique
furniture, priceless silver, rare porcelains, and fine china
gathered from all over the world. The Bellingrath Home
and The Bessie Morse Bellingrath Collection are now
opened to the public, perfectly complementing a tour
of Bellingrath Gardens.

View-Master Reel 335
Bellingrath Gardens' Azalea Extravaganza

1. THE GROTTO

The handsome stone grotto at the edge of Fowl River
has become almost a trademark of Bellingrath Gardens.
A small waterfall plays over the mouth of the grotto,
behind which may be seen a colorful floral display of
seasonal flowers or plants. Lining the terraced steps
which lead down to the grotto and on to the river are
giant stone urns filled with blooming shrubs or gaily
colored foliage plants.

2. THE BELLINGRATH HOME

The facade of the Home "suggests the baronial
splendor of the old brick mansion elaborately decorated
with iron lace. The house faces Fowl River, and the

glassed-in sun porch shown here overlooks a series of
terraces descending to the river. Seasonal floral displays
are kept on the terraces the year around. Azaleas, canna
lilies and Easter lilies are seen here.

3. MIRROR LAKE

Pink, white and red azaleas line Mirror Lake. The
lake reflects the glory of each changing season, as white
swans drift idly on its unruffled surface.

4. REBECCA AT THE WELL

A fine bronze bas-relief plaque depicts the famous
scene from the Bible. The plaque is mounted in pink
marble and is placed at the end of a large fountain. Sur-
rounding it here are azaleas, calla lilies and Easter lilies.

5. FLOWER-LINED WALK

Some idea of the size which azaleas reach may be
gained from those bordering this flagstone path through
the Gardens. A shower of white bridal wreath on the
other side of the path sets off the vivid color of the
azaleas, which range from white to crimson.

6. DEDICATION PLAQUE TO MR. AND MRS.
WALTER D. BELLINGRATH
This stunning pink marble monolith near the center ETC ETC