Gathering honors Kathy Dean’s 37 years of dedication on Shakespeare Garden Society board
A beautiful summer evening provided the setting Sunday for a celebration 100 years in the making at Wessington Springs’ Shakespeare Garden.
Local residents, former residents, family and friends gathered for a Garden Party marking the centennial of Wessington Springs College English professor Emma Shay’s 1926 journey to England, which inspired the creation of Shakespeare Garden. The evening also honored Kathy Dean as she retires from the Shakespeare Garden Society after 37 years of helping restore, preserve and care for the historic garden and Anne Hathaway Cottage.
The first hour offered guests an opportunity to wander the garden and visit while hors d’oeuvres were passed and Lisa Edwards provided music from the garden arbor.
A program followed highlighting the garden’s beginnings, its restoration and the work of those carrying it into the future. Susan Dean Arnott, Gail Arnott, Dr. Tom Dean and Brenda Deines were among the presenters.
Dean was recognized for nearly four decades of dedication and inspiration to the Shakespeare Garden Society, with Arnott presenting her with a bouquet of flowers in appreciation for her service.
The celebration brought together several generations connected to a place that traces its beginnings to Shay’s trip across the Atlantic a century ago — and to the many volunteers who have ensured her vision continues to bloom on a Wessington Springs hillside.