Rancho del Descanso. That’s what E. Manchester Boddy called his working ranch. Today we know it as Descanso Gardens. This 150-acre botanical garden in La Cañada Flintridge offers a peaceful escape. It is often referred to as simply “Descanso” by locals.
Descanso Gardens has a rich history. In 1784, the first Spanish governor of California deeded this land. It was part of a 36,000-acre rancho. Corporal José María Verdugo received it for his loyal service. The Verdugo family owned the property until 1869.
In 1937, E. Manchester Boddy purchased the property. He owned The Los Angeles Illustrated Daily News. Boddy built a 22-room mansion. Beverly Hills architect James E. Dolena designed it. Boddy also bought more land north of the original property. This provided mountain streams for Descanso Gardens’ water.
During World War II, a dark chapter unfolded. People of Japanese ancestry were forced into internment camps. Boddy purchased up to 100,000 camellia plants. He bought them from two Japanese-owned nurseries. The Uyematsu and Yoshimura families owned these nurseries. Boddy was assisted by horticulturist J. Howard Asper and hybridizer Dr. Walter E. Lammerts.
In 1953, Boddy sold the property to Los Angeles County. Four years later, local volunteers formed the Descanso Gardens Guild. Today, the Guild manages garden operations. It is a public-private partnership with Los Angeles County. Descanso Gardens was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2021.
Descanso Gardens features diverse collections. These include the Ancient Forest, California Garden, and Camellia Forest. You can also explore the Japanese Garden, Lilac Garden, and Rose Garden. The gardens are home to various animal species. Deer, mountain lions, birds, snakes, and squirrels live here.
The Boddy House stands as a reminder of the past. This 22-room mansion was built in 1937. It was designed in the Hollywood Regency style. Today, it houses a Heritage Exhibit. Exhibits detail the gardens, Manchester Boddy’s life, and important donors.
The Sturt Haaga Gallery opened in 2011. It presents contemporary art exhibitions. These exhibitions relate to Descanso Gardens’ setting. Before entering the gardens, you can grab a bite at The Kitchen at Descanso. Some menu items include ingredients grown in the gardens.
Descanso Gardens offers various activities. The Enchanted Railroad is a small train that circles the promenade garden. In the Japanese Garden, a tea house hosts events. An amphitheater sits on the main lawn.
Descanso Gardens hosts many events. These include yoga, tours, and members-only events. Large events include Enchanted and Carved. Enchanted is a light and art show. Carved is a Halloween-themed event with carved pumpkins.
Descanso Gardens is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm. It is closed on Christmas Day. General admission tickets are fifteen dollars. Senior and student discounts are available. Children under five enter free. Members enjoy free admission and early entry. Descanso Gardens offers a serene escape. It is a place where history, nature, and art intertwine.