Paradise on the Hudson

After reading this book, I've learned about a historical figure I'd never heard of: Samuel Untermyer. He was what we'd now call a progressive, an attorney who defended both the wealthy and the average person and who just happened to have a passion for horticulture. This book reminded me of the old A&E series called "America's Castles" which each week focused on one or more architectural marvels, including a historical account of their owners' lives. It not only described Untermyer's professional life, but also his love for growing things, ultimately evidenced by his estate on the Hudson River in Yonkers, NY. This is the story of how that estate and its gardens came to be, how it deteriorated almost to the point of final ruin, and of the efforts of a few preservationists to restore the gardens to their original beauty. I was truly moved by this story, saddened by the neglect for so many decades, but then my hope restored again. The book is lavishly decorated with historical photos of the grounds and the people. The current photos seem just a bit fuzzy, not quite as clear or vivid as one would expect. But, perhaps in the actual book, that will be less obvious.

I have been lucky enough to visit the Untermyer gardens.  They are truly beautiful.  So, I was very excited to see this book about this speical place and the vision behind it. 

The Untermyer Gardens were created by Samuel Untermeyer.  I discovered that he was a very interesting individual.  Mr. U was a progressive thinker who supported women's suffrage.  Untermyer was Jewish and the founder of the first Jewish law firm in New York; his firm was  very successful.  Mr. U's wife was Christian ; she was a lover of art and music who helped bring Gustav Mahler to New York. 

The reader learns that Mr. U wanted to create a beautiful space for all to enjoy.  The inspiration for the landscaping was the Garden of Eden. The completed garden was enjoyed by many but fell into disrepair in the period of Mr. U's death.  How it was brought back to life is one of the subjects explored in this comprehensive volume that is filled with gorgeous photos.

I really enjoyed this book and will look for it when it comes out in the true book version.


Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this read in exchange for an honest review.

Untermyer Gardens are a marvel and Seebohm has done a good job of retelling their story. It’s a classic tale of rise, fall and resurrection, featuring some notable characters and some unsung heroes. Best of all it reveals the Gardens in their original glory, and pays tribute the restoration now taking place.

Paradise on the Hudson is a well written biography of the Untermyer gardens by Caroline Seebohm. Due out 03 March 2020 from Timber Press, it's 224 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats.

The history of the man behind the creation of the gardens and estate as well as his unorthodox life and relationships are well documented by the author. The book is enhanced by personal photos, documents, and drawings. The introduction is followed by chapters detailing the architecture, garden designs and completion, as well as the Algeresque decline, decay and finally resurrection of the gardens and grounds in the early 2000s. The book reads like a novel and the photos are such an integral and inspiring part of that narrative.

The sheer scope of the projects and the tireless dedication of the army of volunteers, workers, gardeners, engineers (for the water works and other permaculture features), laborers, and other folks just boggles the mind. Some of the photos included document just how heartrendingly decrepit and desolate parts of the gardens had become. This book is a lovely tribute to the love and passion which brought the original vision back to life again for new generations to enjoy.

Four stars. Recommended for gardening enthusiasts as well as lovers of garden history and design. The maps, indices, and bibliography are likely worth the cost of admission in their own rights.

I love to read about gardens and theirs story. This one was excellent and I appreciated the style of writing and how well the author tell the story.
It was an excellent read, highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

I enjoyed reading this book. The book traces the history of the Untermyer garden from it's beginning, to it's abandonment, to it's restoration. I enjoyed the history of the man who built the garden and the efforts to restore it. The text is accompanied with lots of photographs. Enjoy