The Robinson Gardens and Their Tie to San Marino April 22, 2013

What could be more appropriate for Earth Day than a talk on gardens! Heirs to the Robinson’s Department store, Harry and Virginia Robinson’s financial fortune allowed them to build the first estate and world class garden in Beverly Hills. This set the stage for Beverly Hills becoming one of the garden centers of the world. Henry Huntington, Dorothy Chandler and Leslie Brand were the Robinson's contemporaries in the early part of the twentieth century and collectively, they were a force that shaped the cultural landscape of Southern California.

This fascinating lecture will also provide the historical connection between the Robinson's and San Marino. For example, Mr. Robinson's two sisters married and lived in San Marino, one to W. L. Valentine, a founding father of San Marino and chairman of the Board of the Robinson’s Department Store.

TIM LINDSAY, currently in charge of the ongoing restoration, preservation and programming of the Virginia Robinson Gardens, is a well-known teacher, historian, lecturer and landscape restorer. His gardens and writings have appeared in various publications, including Sunset Magazine and other scientific and garden journals. Home and Garden television has featured his garden restoration work and subsequent design work on multiple programs.

Tim and his fellow speaker, MARCELLA RUBLE, recently authored the book, Beverly Hills' First Estate, The House and Garden of Virginia and Harry Robinson.

Seating is limited and attendance to this free monthly series has been to capacity so arrive early!
San Marino Centennial books will also be available for purchase at 6:00 p.m.