Manteo, NC – The Elizabethan Gardens will release 70 butterflies, as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, on Tuesday, September 27th at 1:30 p.m. at the Great Lawn. The event will be free with regular garden admission. Details and ticket information can be found at https://www.elizabethangardens.org/tribute-queen-elizabeth-ii/
Queen Elizabeth II recognized the historical significance of Roanoke Island in 1984 on the 400th anniversary of the arrival of English explorers. Princess Anne represented the Queen and traveled to North Carolina to join the celebration, reflecting the Queen’s interest in the exploration and colonization of the Island. Princess Anne was interested in the design as well as the history of the Gardens. “She had a meeting with the head Gardener and asked him to send her seeds for some of the plants in the Garden,” explained Gardens’ Executive Director Theresa Armendarez. “Later, when the Gardens established a Rose Garden, the Gardens received the gift of a Queen Elizabeth Grandiflora Rose from Her Majesty which has thrived in our formal walled garden.”
Last year, the Gardens celebrated its 70th anniversary, paralleling the celebration of Queen Elizabeth’s seventieth year on the throne. “We were pleased to have with us members of the North Carolina chapter of the Daughters of the British Empire who planted an oak at the Great Lawn in honor of the Queen’s reign,” said Gardens’ Board President Linda Davenport. “With this special tribute, we join all those in our country and beyond who celebrate her inspiration and achievements over 70 years as Queen.”
About The Elizabethan Gardens
Over seven decades have passed since the Garden Club of North Carolina adopted The Elizabethan Gardens as a project in 1951. Their inspired vision remains a growing testament to the women who adopted the project and the valiant Elizabethan explorers it was intended to honor. The Gardens is dedicated to sharing its unique history, providing educational opportunities, enhancing the quality of the visitors experience and preserving the beauty and tranquility of The Elizabethan Gardens. The attraction is located on the north end of Roanoke Island at 1411 National Park Drive Manteo, NC 27954. For more information on happenings at The Elizabethan Gardens call 252.473-3234 or visit elizabethangardens.org.
Queen Elizabeth Grandiflora Rose 1954. This lovely rose was a gift from Her Majesty to The Elizabethan Gardens. Photo courtesy of The Elizabethan Gardens.
Princess Anne (pictured at front left) greeting guests at her visit to The Elizabethan Gardens in 1984. Photo courtesy of The Elizabethan Gardens.
