Evelyn Poehler, Landscape Architect of Wethersfield

In the Summer of 2024 the Wethersfield Foundation partnered with the Sharon Historical Society and Museum to present an exhibition in Sharon, CT called Creating an Oasis at Wethersfield: Mrs. Poehler and Mr. Stillman

The exhibition focused on the female, pioneering 20th c. landscape architect who created the masterpiece at Wethersfield Estate & Garden in Amenia, NY for Mr. Chauncey Stillman. Considered among the finest classical gardens in America, this formal, Italian Renaissance garden sits atop one of the highest points in Dutchess County with sweeping vistas. The 1,000 acre property is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The exhibition explored the history of creating this formal garden between the landscape architect, Evelyn Poehler, and her client over decades. Unknown, due to their shared preference for privacy, this landscape design belongs in the legion of work done by others, namely Beatrix Farrand and Ellen Biddle Shipman. In fact, correspondence between Radcliffe College and Mr. Stillman illustrates the confusion that Beatrix Farrand was thought to have designed Wethersfield’s garden, when in fact, Evelyn Poehler designed it.

The exhibition featured original renderings, correspondence, drawings and notations from the Wethersfield archives. In addition, historic and contemporary photography of the garden were included for a fully immersive experience, as visitors learned about an often-overlooked, pioneering landscape architect from Sharon, CT. Visitors to the exhibition received a Complimentary Day Pass to Wethersfield Estate & Garden, located nearby in Amenia, NY to view the gardens in person.