2bnMaine

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 that explains why in 1636-37, these folks got swept up in the first documented financial bubble. It was so intense, they established the very first Futures Market. Prices change, markets change, but human nature remains constant.

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.