The Lilac Lady

"Hulda Klager was two years old when her parents brought her to

America from Germany in 1865. The family moved to Woodland, WA.

and purchased a farm in 1877 when she was thirteen.  Her home,

built in 1889, is located on four acres of the original farm.

Even though Hulda was busy with the demands of home, marriage, and

family she was able to make time for her flowers.

While she was recovering from an illness in 1903, she received a book

about Luther Burbank.  His work to improve plants through propagation

caught Hulda's attention. Her own first tests began with an apple tree

at the farm. Hulda's work with lilacs began in 1905. By 1910 she had

14 new varieties to show for her efforts.

In 10 years she had enough varieties to host her first open house during

the spring bloom. She continued this event until her death in 1960.

As her reputation grew, Hulda became known as the Lilac Lady."

The sitting room above is where she greeted guests and served tea.

Tea served in her bedroom.

In the closet there were several dresses and quilts on display.

There were quilts displayed throughout the home.

It was beautiful day to walk in Hulda's garden.

I could definitely sit and dream here in that distant chair.

www.lilacgardens.com for more information

It was a perfect day to smell the flowers.