Little Moments Like That: Rockome Gardens Field Trip

Friday, May 13, 2011

Rockome Gardens Field Trip

Both Annah and Sylvia had class field trips today. Jeremy went with Sylvia to Lincoln's New Salem State Historical Site, and they had a great day! I went with Annah's class (and took the camera) to Rockome Gardens in Arcola, IL.

We learned that there has been an excess amount of rain (We can empathize!) and also some wind damage from a major storm that has kept them from planting their flowers as early as they would like. It looked like they had just planted many of them within the past couple days, but a few were blooming and beautiful...

Poppies

The rock fences and structures throughout the garden were very unique and interesting.

There were many parent chaperones along on the trip, so I was only responsible for Annah and one of her friends.

The 3 of us had a good time exploring together.

There were some cute sayings on signs around the property. ;)

Many of the stone structures had repurposed glass and other items in them.

This spot in the gardens made me think of my favorite book and musical, The Secret Garden.

The property was purchased by new owners last year, and they are working very hard to refurbish it. The play area is looking nice, and the kids spent quite a bit of time playing there this afternoon.

Engineer Annah

checking in on The 3 Bears

It was really fun to watch Annah and her friends enjoy playing and just being kids!!

Stables.

In one of the gift shops, we found this antique weaving loom. A partially made rug was on it, and it seemed fully operational.

shuttles

There is a lovely one-room schoolhouse here.

The piano in the classroom was made by Newman Bros. Co.
Chicago, IL.

The Candy Shop on site is currently in bad shape, needing a new roof and lots of work inside too. We saw shingles ready to be installed, and quite a mess inside. But, I thought this door on the outside was just gorgeous.