It’s perfectly clear why the wealthy Dutch Calvinists, as opposed to the ostentatious Catholics, valued the tulip as much as a glittery 5 carat diamond, after visiting the annual tulip tour at WatersEdge, the exquisite 10 acre Somes Sound estate of Barbara and William Stewart on Sargent Drive in Northeast Harbor.
In 17th Century Holland, the tulip was considered an acceptable way to display one’s wealth, since the Calvinists didn’t adorn themselves, just their property, and only then, with great restraint. Tulips only bloom for a few weeks — a rare, but God made, spectacle. They were originally eaten as onions.
By 17th Century standards, the Stewarts have amassed a blooming fortune (no pun intended) — 85,000 bulbs. 40,000 of which are replaced annually. These photos don’t give the full effect.
Here’s an interesting Amazon review of the book Tulipomania
This year the tour will benefit Island Connections, which provides the elderly and disabled with necessary services. The $15 tour is open again next Saturday at 32 Sargent Drive, you’ll find it by looking for lots of parked cars. It should be even more spectacular if the sun is shining.
[...] This is the post from last year. This is a link to the photos from last year. This is the link to their site. This is a link to a preview of this years show. [...]
[...] This is the post from last year. This is a link to the photos from last year. This is the link to their site. This is a link to a preview of this years show. [...]