The weather was perfect for the beginning of yesterday’s celebration to honor the Mother of Balboa Park. The opening presentation was dry as SOHO President Jaye MacAskill welcomed nearly 100 guests to the Marston House. Nancy Carter then shared a bit of history about the everblooming and perennial Kate Sessions. Afternoon showers on the guided tours may have left heads damp, but spirits high as the gentle rain could have been a birthday wish for the renowned gardener.
The activities also included a tour of the urban forest surrounding the Marston House with Fausto Palafox; a talk and walk to the Kate Sessions statue with Ranger Kim Duclo; a plant sale; and tours of the historic Marston House and gardens.
Katherine Olivia “Kate” Sessions (1857-1940) began her long career in San Diego as a teacher before becoming a world-recognized horticulturist, florist, nurserywomen and landscape designer, Kate imported, introduced, propagated and popularized hundreds of trees, palms, vines, shrubs and succulents.(Photo by Sande Lollis >)
Three organizations with strong ties to Kate and Balboa Park joined together for Saturday’s fun-filled party — Save Our Heritage Organisation (SOHO) which maintains the historic Marston residence and gardens and is committed to raising awareness of historic preservation; the San Diego Floral Association which helped develop Balboa Park and continues to preserve native groves of oak and Torrey pines (they also donated tote bags with goodies to the first 50 guests); and the Friends of Balboa Park which funds projects that enhance, protect and preserve Balboa Park’s legacy.
