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Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar: A Historic Oasis

Discover a hidden gem in Wilmington: a meticulously restored historic garden designed by a pioneering female landscape architect.

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Escape to the Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar, a meticulously restored early 20th-century landscape designed by Marian Cruger Coffin, one of America's first female landscape architects. Located in Wilmington, Delaware, these gardens offer a serene retreat with vibrant flower beds, classical statues, and formal walkways, all set against the backdrop of a historic mansion.

A brief summary to Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring to see azaleas, bluebells, and tulips in full bloom, adding vibrant colors to the greenery.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the gardens feature winding paths and original stone walkways that may require careful footing.
  • Check the Preservation Delaware website for seasonal events, guided tours, and volunteer opportunities.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Wilmington City Center, head east on Market Street towards 9th Street. Continue until you reach 18th Street, then turn left. Walk until you reach Greenhill Avenue, then turn right. Continue for about 0.5 miles; the gardens will be on your left at 1405 Greenhill Ave. There is no admission fee to enter the gardens.

  • Public Transport

    From Wilmington City Center, take the DART First State bus route 5. Board at the nearest bus stop on Market Street and stay on for about 15-20 minutes. Get off at the stop near Greenhill Avenue and 18th Street. Walk east on Greenhill Avenue for about 0.2 miles; the gardens will be on your right at 1405 Greenhill Ave. A single fare for DART First State is $2.00.

  • Parking

    Limited parking is available. The courtyard parking lot may be used for drop-off and pick-up, but street parking along Greenhill Avenue is encouraged. Be careful not to block any driveways. Street parking is free.

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Discover more about Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar

The Marian Coffin Gardens at Gibraltar offer a unique glimpse into the Country Place Era of landscape design. Commissioned in 1916 by Hugh Rodney Sharp and his wife, Isabella du Pont Sharp, the gardens were designed by Marian Cruger Coffin, a pioneering female landscape architect. Coffin envisioned the gardens in the Italianate Beaux Arts style, creating a series of terraces that cascade down from the Gibraltar estate. Each terrace presents a unique theme, showcasing a colorful array of flowers, shrubs, and trees. The gardens feature meticulously restored stonework, statues, and marble staircases. The Sharps, avid travelers, collected the 35 statues that grace the gardens from their trips to Italy, England, Hong Kong, and France. The swimming pool was converted into a reflecting pond with lotuses and koi fish. After falling into disrepair following the death of Hugh Rodney Sharp Jr. in the 1990s, Preservation Delaware stepped in to save the gardens from demolition. The gardens have been carefully restored to reflect Coffin's original designs, making it one of the most accurate recreations of her work. Visitors can explore the Main Flower Garden, the Reflecting Pool, the Bald Cypress Allee, and the Woodland Walk. The unrestored Gibraltar mansion, teahouse, and carriage house add to the historical atmosphere.

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