UPPERVILLE, Va. — Rachel Lambert Mellon, widely known as Bunny Mellon, was a renowned philanthropist, environmentalist, and fashion icon. She was also a close friend of the Kennedys, with a deep passion for sustainable agriculture and gardening.
Mellon’s influence is still felt today, particularly through the Oak Spring Garden Foundation, which operates from her former estate in Upperville. She played a key role in designing the Rose Garden and the Jacqueline Kennedy Garden at the White House, a testament to her love for horticulture and landscape design.
Sir Peter Crane, a plant scientist and the President of the Oak Spring Garden Foundation, explains the mission of the foundation:
“Our focus is on plants, gardens, and landscapes. We emphasize practical horticulture, plant conservation, and landscape design. Additionally, our farm produces vegetables for local consumption and donations to food banks. Our goal is to promote the understanding and appreciation of plants and the natural world,” said Crane.
The foundation makes use of the extensive resources Mellon left behind, including her rare book library, to offer a range of educational courses. These programs are designed to deepen public knowledge about plants and the environment.
Crane highlighted the variety of classes available, from lighthearted wreath-making and flower arranging to more in-depth courses on botanical illustration and the history of plant art. “We also offer practical lessons on topics such as invasive species control, gardening techniques, landscape management, and biodiversity,” he added.
The foundation offers a unique opportunity to learn about nature while immersed in the stunning landscapes of Virginia. To visit the estate or participate in one of the foundation’s courses, visitors must sign up through the Oak Spring Garden Foundation website.
Through its educational initiatives and the preservation of Mellon’s legacy, the foundation continues to inspire a new generation to appreciate and care for the natural world.
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