Plants and butterflies inspired Frank Lloyd Wright when he designed the Dana-Thomas House, so it’s only fair for the state historic site to help others plant gardens and attract butterflies.
On May 19, experts will explain how to grow in planters and other containers. The presentation from 5:30 to 7 p.m. will offer something for everyone from home gardeners to folks tending large planters on commercial properties.
The talks will be followed by a live planting demonstration of five small urns, followed by refreshments in the courtyard.
Speakers include Lori McWilliams of CopperTree, Harry Lewis from the Governor’s Mansion and U of I Extension Master Gardener volunteer Karen Grant.
Then on June 16, the Dana-Thomas House offers a presentation on butterflies, moths and bees. Experts will explain why these insects matter and how to attract them to your garden.
The hour-long presentation begins at 5 p.m. A brief garden tour and refreshments will follow in the courtyard and cottage area.
The Dana-Thomas House was built between 1902 and 1904. It is perhaps the best-preserved of Frank Lloyd Wright’s “Prairie Style” homes, with more than 400 pieces of specially made art glass and original furnishings.
Wright designed the house with music in mind, creating spaces with performance balconies and architectural elements that support live musical presentations.
The Dana-Thomas House, located at 301 E. Lawrence Street (Fourth and Lawrence) in Springfield, is open Wednesday to Sunday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
The home is operated by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (www.IllinoisHistory.gov). IHPA protects the state’s historic resources, which contribute to education, culture and the economy. IHPA sites include ancient burial mounds, forts and buildings erected by settlers, and homes connected to famous Illinoisans.
