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newssweek · 7 months

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Top 25 Most Beautiful Colleges: Discover the Campuses of Distinction

Explore the top 25 most beautiful colleges according to Newsweek's 2016 rankings. Dive into the stunning architecture, picturesque landscapes, and rich histories that make these campuses truly exceptional.

Introduction

When it comes to choosing a college, prospective students often consider a multitude of factors, including academics, location, and campus beauty. Newsweek's 2016 list of the "Top 25 Most Beautiful Colleges" offers a captivating glimpse into campuses that effortlessly combine architectural splendor with natural charm. Join us on a journey through these prestigious institutions that not only excel in education but also boast breathtaking surroundings.

The Beauty of Education: Top 25 Most Beautiful Colleges

College Name Location

1 Stanford University Palo Alto, California

2 Santa Clara University Santa Clara, California

3 Harvard University Cambridge, Massachusetts

4 Princeton University Princeton, New Jersey

5 University of Miami Coral Gables, Florida

6 Duke University Durham, North Carolina

7 University of Chicago Chicago, Illinois

8 Georgetown University Washington, D.C.

9 University of Notre Dame Notre Dame, Indiana

10 Yale University New Haven, Connecticut

11 College of William & Mary Williamsburg, Virginia

12 Pepperdine University Malibu, California

13 University of Virginia Charlottesville, Virginia

14 University of Colorado Boulder Boulder, Colorado

15 University of California, Berkeley Berkeley, California

16 Smith College Northampton, Massachusetts

17 University of Hawaii at Manoa Honolulu, Hawaii

18 University of Oregon Eugene, Oregon

19 University of Washington Seattle, Washington

20 University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, North Carolina

21 University of San Diego San Diego, California

22 University of Southern California Los Angeles, California

23 Wellesley College Wellesley, Massachusetts

24 College of Charleston Charleston, South Carolina

25 University of Florida Gainesville, Florida

Stanford University: Where Innovation Meets Beauty

Stanford University, nestled in Palo Alto, California, takes the top spot on Newsweek's list. With a campus that combines modern architecture with lush greenery, Stanford offers a learning environment like no other. From the Hoover Tower to the Rodin Sculpture Garden, every corner exudes sophistication and elegance.

Santa Clara University: A Hidden Gem

Santa Clara University, ranked second, enchants visitors with its classic architecture and serene atmosphere. Located in Santa Clara, California, this university boasts historic buildings, including the Mission Santa Clara de Asís, and picturesque gardens that create an ideal backdrop for education.

Harvard University: Where History and Beauty Converge

Harvard University, situated in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is renowned for its timeless charm. The iconic Harvard Yard, historic brick buildings, and the scenic Charles River make it a visual masterpiece. A walk through Harvard Square is like stepping back in time.

Princeton University: Colonial Elegance in New Jersey

Princeton University, in Princeton, New Jersey, combines colonial-style architecture with natural beauty. The Nassau Hall, with its distinct bell tower, stands as a symbol of the campus's historical significance. The enchanting Princeton University Chapel is another must-visit.

University of Miami: A Tropical Paradise

The University of Miami in Coral Gables, Florida, is a tropical oasis. Mediterranean-inspired architecture, lush palm trees, and proximity to the beach make it a haven for students seeking both academic excellence and natural beauty.

Duke University: Gothic Grandeur

Durham, North Carolina, is home to Duke University, known for its stunning Gothic-style buildings. The Duke Chapel is a masterpiece, and the Sarah P. Duke Gardens provide a peaceful escape within the campus.

University of Chicago: Modern Marvel

The University of Chicago, situated in Chicago, Illinois, balances modernity and beauty. The Robie House, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, and the Rockefeller Memorial Chapel showcase architectural excellence.

Georgetown University: Colonial Charm in D.C.

Georgetown University, located in Washington, D.C., boasts colonial-inspired buildings that overlook the picturesque Potomac River. The campus is a blend of history and natural splendor.

University of Notre Dame: Spiritual and Serene

Notre Dame, Indiana, is home to the University of Notre Dame, famous for its awe-inspiring Basilica of the Sacred Heart. The Golden Dome and tranquil lakes add to the spiritual ambiance.

Yale University: Historic and Picturesque

Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, is a blend of historic buildings and picturesque landscapes. The Sterling Memorial Library and Beinecke Rare Book & Manuscript Library are architectural gems.

Top 25 Most Beautiful Colleges: FAQs

Q: How were these colleges selected as the most beautiful? A: Newsweek's rankings considered factors like architecture, landscaping, and overall aesthetic appeal to determine the most beautiful campuses.

Q: Are these colleges only known for their beauty? A: No, these colleges excel academically and offer a well-rounded educational experience in addition to their stunning campuses.

Q: Can visitors explore these campuses? A: Yes, many of these colleges welcome visitors to explore their campuses and experience their beauty firsthand.

Q: Do these colleges offer scholarships? A: Most of these colleges offer various scholarships and financial aid options to help students pursue their education.

Q: How can I apply to these colleges? A: To apply to these colleges, visit their respective websites and follow the application instructions provided.

Q: Can I visit these colleges virtually? A: Yes, many of these colleges offer virtual campus tours on their websites, allowing you to experience their beauty from anywhere.

Conclusion

The "Top 25 Most Beautiful Colleges" according to Newsweek provide not only exceptional education but also the opportunity to immerse yourself in stunning surroundings. From the classic charm of Harvard to the tropical paradise of the University of Miami, these campuses offer a diverse range of beauty and experiences. Whether you're a prospective student or simply an admirer of architectural marvels, exploring these campuses is a delightful journey worth taking. more click here

#Beautiful Colleges #college #Santa Clara University

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davidnajewiczphotography · 8 months

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Sarah P. Duke Gardens , Durham NC - adjacent to the Duke University campus - some kind of succulent - almost perfect symmetry

#photographers on tumblr #original photography #b&w photography #b&w #macrophtotography #botanic garden #durham #northcarolina

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slytherin-x-aesthetic · 1 year

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I was meandering through Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham, NC with my friend José a few weeks ago. It had rained that morning, so the leaves were all covered in droplets. I spent the better part of two hours exploring the beauty of the post-rain gardens.

by Robert Nelson

Sarah P. Duke Gardens, Durham, United States

Free to use under the Unsplash License

buy me a coffee

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forsythiahill · 3 years

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Quick trip through the Sarah P. Duke Gardens in Durham North Carolina

#duke #duke university #duke hospital #durham #north carolina #gardens #gardens to visit #public gardens #duke gardens #sara P duke #sarah p duke

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kevinnance · 7 years

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(Sarah P. Duke Gardens, Duke University)

#Duke University #reflections #Sarah P. Duke Gardens #photographers on tumblr #artists on tumblr

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bookstantrash · 3 years

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A/N: Huge shoutout to the lovely @perseusannabeth who obsess over Pride & Prejudice as much as me. After very politely threatening asking me to write more of Nessian as P&P (I’m so glad Sarah made it canon that Nessian’s relationship is Darcy and Lizzie’s) she told me about THE lake scene in the BBC version. I watched all six episodes and fell in love, so I highly suggest you all watch it too.

Also, huge shoutout to @firebirdofscythia (I stole your Azriel line lmao) and the rest of the gc for being so supportive!! Enjoy

Pemberley’s Lake

Cassian was so tired it was a wonder he had not fallen from his horse, which made him realise that Azriel may have been partially right in telling him to take a break and go back to his state to rest.

Although he suspected that Azriel kicking him out of his office and practically throwing him in a carriage to Pemberley had more to do with the fact that Azriel had gotten sick of his mopey mood more than anything else.

“I shall never show my face in society again” Cassian had told a bored looking Azriel one afternoon, laying on his office’s floor as if it was the end of the world “I shall work until my eyes grow tired and my beard and hair are so long they reach the ground.”

“Stop with the theatrics brother. It is not becoming of you.” Azriel had answered as he shuffled a deck of cards.

“Theatrics!! Azriel for Cauldron’ sake I have no idea how I can keep on living after that refusal” he sighed from his place on the carpeted floor “There is not another woman alive who could hold my heart. It's lost forever. And now I shall live in regret and shame of not being enough for her.”

Azriel rolled his eyes so hard at his brother’s words it was a wonder they did not stay permanently like that.

“I shall grow old and drown my sorrows in the finest beers and wines, turning fat and bald. And after I have passed, my cursed ghost shall roam our country crying in despair over my terrible life”

That had been enough to make Azriel pack Cassian’s belongings and get his brother the fastest horse available.

“If it were not for the laws of this land” Azriel had mumbled after he had bid his brother farewell, wishing a good trip and forbidding him to appear in his office again until he had fixed that mood of his.

Breathing in the clear and fresh air of his home, Cassian was able to momentarily forget his troubled heart. But one look at the blue sky and he was reminded of the gray-blue eyes belonging to the lady who had made him, General Commander of the British Army, who had enough condecorations to fill his whole coat and who had made enemies tremble in fear when faced against him, wallow in self pity and misery.

Lady Nesta Archeron.

Her name alone was enough to make his chest tighten in longing.

Feyre’s oldest and most notorious sister, if not by her breathtaking beauty and intellect but by her ruthless and dismissive regard to the oposite sex. Whereas Feyre had surprised society by marrying before her older sisters — and securing herself the best of matches of the season at that with his brother Rhysand, which was nothing but a Duke — and Elain had enough suitors to fill a ballroom, the oldest Archeron did not seem inclined to marry at all. Oh she did catch the eyes of more than one gentleman — Cassian could vaguely reckon that she had had a long courting with Sir Thomas Mandray, although it had ended rather abruptly — but no one had been able to snare her heart.

That had been what had initially peaked his interest. He had briefly seen her at Rhysand’s wedding, attempting some small talk that was easily and diplomatically dismissed by her. He had then relentlessly engaged in conversation with her in any opportunity he could find, being it from the few occasions in which she frequented Feyre’ small reunions over tea or when he coincidentally met her during her daily walks around town to visit Lady Emerie, a modice whose popularity was raising tremendously after Feyre’s bridal trousseau and wedding dress were all designed by her.

It was not until Feyre’s first official gathering as Duchess that Cassian realised the depths of his feelings for the sharp eyed lady.

He had been watching the ballroom from the sidelines, trying to escape the mob of scary mamas who wanted to throw their daughters at him, a glass of champagne in his hand.

Rhysand and Feyre had already danced the opening song, so the floor was now free to hold more partners. Both Cassian and Azriel had danced once with Morrigan — Rhysand’s cousin and a dear friend of theirs — and Elain had enough names on her card that they’d have to wait a fortnight to dance with her. Nesta on the other hand…. she had refused all invitations, although one could not help but wonder why by the way she seemed to glow whenever a new song was played.

“Lady Archeron” Cassian had greeted, bowing deeply and throwing at her his best smile, one that usually had young ladies fainting and old ones blushing.

But not Nesta Archeron. No, she had only deigned to make a polite bow and look ahead.

“I could not help but take notice of how entranced by the music you appear to be, my Lady” he had offered her his hand “Would you do me the honour of allowing one dance?”

That had caught Nesta’s attention, and she turned towards him, her gray-blue eyes finally meeting his hazel ones.

“I do not think why I should. I am perfectly satisfied to watch from the sidelines” she raised a perfect manicured eyebrow, glancing in the corner where the mamas and their daughters were “I am sure many other young ladies would rather have my place”

Cassian knew she was lying. Knew she desperately wanted to dance, but something was holding her back.

“It is said that dancing is the best way to encourage affection. Even if one’s partner is barely tolerable” he had nonchalantly said

“I beg your pardon” Nesta had exclaimed

“The lady has nothing to fear. I will not let you suffer ridicule because of your poor dancing” he had said in a patronizing tone, if only to see that fire in her eyes ignite.

And to see her accepting his offer with a murderous intent.

They had moved to the center of the ballroom, shocked faces all around them, both from the fact that Nesta was joining the dance floor and her partner being him of all gentlemen.

Cassian had never been proved more wrong once the first string from the violin was drawn and Nesta moved. He had been sure she knew how to dance, had only said those words to get a rise from her. But to see Nesta Archeron actually dancing… it was something straight out of a dream.

Cassian knew the waltz. His mother had insisted that all three sons have the same education, even though only Rhysand was set to inherit the duchy.

However, when paired with Nesta Archeron one could not be called nothing but a simple object to display her talents. Even the most notorious dancer would pale in comparison to her.

And Cauldron, she knew that. Nesta knew she was Terpsikhore, greek Muse of music, song and dance.

What a fool he had been, what a complete and utter fool he had made of himself. His only consolation was that some good had come out of his childish behaviour.

Nesta Archeron was dancing, and when she danced she threatened to bring empires to their knees, for her beauty got inhumanly enhanced, her delighted smile sending an arrow straight to his chest.

Cassian realised he had fallen hopelessly in love with Nesta Archeron. If he was to be true with himself, he had been for quite some time, since their first exchange of words when she had all but dismissed him as a pesky bug.

And as the last note was drawn, as the whole ballroom breathlessly took in Nesta, in complete awe of her, Cassian decided he was going to marry her.

Was going to propose to Nesta Archeron right at that moment.

Using the excuse of getting some fresh air after the tiring dance, he walked them to Rhysand’s extensive and well lit garden, quiet enough that they would not be interrupted but not so isolated as to risk her reputation.

They had walked only a few minutes in the garden when Cassian declared his feelings. He all but tripped with his words, hoping Nesta could see past his fool’s act.

She had not.

She had refused his hand in the most brutal way, her words so articulately poisoned that Cassian felt himself a young boy again, desperately trying to achieve perfection so his father would dare to spare him more than a passing glance. Would not regret having adopted him into his household and given him a home.

He had uttered an apology, saying how sorry he was that his feelings had caused her such pain and disgust, reigning his temper enough to walk her back to the ballroom.

Cassian left town the same night, and had stayed in his office and headquarters training the new milicia since then, burying himself with work until Azriel grew tired of his awful mood.

Sighing, Cassian brushed his horse’s neck, eyeing the lake.

Maybe a dive in the cold waters of Pemperley would help clear his mind.

~•~

Pemberley was, in Nesta’s opinion, the most beautiful state she had ever seen. Even more than her newly married sister’s dukedom.

“However this house’s lady is, she sure is happy” Emerie commented as the head maid showed them to the music room.

“As if someone could be unhappy with this much money” Gwyn whispered back, eyeing the grand piano.

Nesta was inclined to agree, even more after having seen the library. She could not help but envy the lady. Her husband must be a very cultured gentleman.

“May I show you the external grounds? I am sure the gentleman will find it quite delightful” the head maid said, looking at Balthazar, the only men among their group of four.

“I am most grateful for your hospitality” he answered, and they promptly moved outdoors.

Their party of four had been travelling through the countryside for almost two weeks. It was as much as a vacation for Emerie and Balthazar — with Emerie’s shop the season’s current sensation and Balthazar being her current business partner — as a time out from the ton, which Gwyn — the most required opera singer of the season — had announced to be in desperately need of a vacation from.

As for Nesta, she had always wanted to travel, but as a single woman of marriageable age without a male relative to escort her, it would have been a nearly impossible feat to accomplish.

When Balthazar had offered to escort both her and her friends Nesta had wanted to shout in delight.

Secretly, she also wished to avoid a certain gentleman, one whose heart she had mercilessly and regretfully broken.

Nesta shook her head as she walked through the garden, distancing herself from her party to think and remember.

Remember how she had enjoyed dancing with Lord Cassian.

How her body had sung and heated where his skin touched hers.

How she had found herself smiling and agreeing to take a stroll with him, using the excuse of feeling overwhelmed in the crowded ballroom.

How his smile had faded once she tore at him, throwing every hateful word his way to refuse his proposal.

Nesta had not seen Cassian since her sister’s ball, but she did not want to risk an encounter.

That trip could not have been more well timed.

She was so lost in her thoughts that she did not notice her hair getting caught in a low tree branch, ruining her intricate updo.

“No one is around” she muttered to herself as she took off the pins holding it in place “A few minutes with my hair down will not hurt”

So Nesta took each pin off, massaging her scalp as she walked in the direction of the state’s lake, the sun shining over its clear waters.

And that is when she spotted him.

Cassian.

Cassian was at the lake.

Cassian was shirtless, dripping wet by the lake’ shore.

Nesta knew she should turn around and forget what she was currently seeing.

But she could not take her eyes off of him.

Seeing a shirtless man in person was indeed a far cry from what her imagination conjured when reading romance novels.

Especially the way the water was running down Cassian’s tanned and hard torso, all the way down his pecs and stomach — was that a six pack or were her eyes playing tricks on her? — until it collided with his pants, which were hanging so low on his hips that Nesta could not help but feel a weird sensation low in her stomach.

Her legs stopped obeying her, and she swore her knees got weak when Cassian noticed he had company.

“Lady Archeron?” he exclaimed, as if he could not believe his eyes.

“Sir!” was all she could say, feeling her cheeks warming.

Cauldron what was wrong with her? It was just a body. A very nice, very wet muscled body and—

“What may you be doing here?” Nesta quickly inquired, cutting her errand thoughts.

“I am the owner” he simply answered

“Of the lake?”

She wanted to smack herself. How could have she blurted such a stupid and rude question?

“Yes, of the lake. And of Pemberley” he answered, amusement lacing his words.

“I didn’t know. The head maid said all the family was not home— we should not have presumed—”

“I returned without prior notice”

“Excuse me, are you and your sisters in good health?” Cassian added, and Nesta dared to think that he sounded a bit nervous.

“Yes. Yes they are. Thank you, sir” she managed to answer, her eyes firmly placed upon his face and not anywhere else.

“I am glad to hear that” he licked his lips and Nesta could not help but wonder if they would be cold due to the lake’s water or if Cassian’s unbothered face meant he was not cold at all.

Was she really inquiring of how his lips would feel against hers? Against her skin? If kissing Cassian would feel as dreamily as her novel's kiss appeared to be?

Nesta hated him.

Did she not?

“I had never seen you with your hair down”

Cassian’s words took her out of her reverie, and Nesta suddenly felt self conscious.

“Do excuse me for showing myself in front of you with such an unsightly appearance” she felt mortified. To have Cassian of all people seeing her like that, hair in complete disarray….

Nesta quickly turned around, fumbling with the hair pins in a vain and desperately attempt of redoing her hair.

“It’s beautiful” she heard Cassian saying in a breathless voice, and thanked the Cauldron her back was turned so he would not see how her face warmed considerably, a small smile gracing her lips.

“Let me help you” he quietly added, and she gasped at the proximity of wet, shirtless Cassian, who touched her hair softly.

“How come a gentleman such as you knows how to hairstyle a lady’s hair?” Nesta asked, feeling his warmth on her back, a tingly sensation between her legs when his fingers brushed her neck.

“I frequently helped my younger sister, Georgiana, fix her own hair in the occasions she played a little too far from what would be deemed proper for a young lady” she felt his hot breath against her neck as Cassian laughed “She favours outdoors activities such as horseback riding, although she’s quite accomplished in arts and music.”

“Your sister sounds lovely” Nesta said, turning to face him once she felt he was done fixing her hair.

“She is my brothers’ and mine whole world. There’s nothing we would not do for Georgiana”

Nesta felt her heart warming at his words, at his devotion and love towards his family. She wondered if he would do the same with his wife.

If he would have acted the same way towards her had she accepted his proposal.

Unbeknown to her, Cassian was imagining the same thing.

He was picturing how he could have helped her every morning with her hair if she had agreed to marry him. Instead, he would have to live with this one memory forever.

He was lost in her eyes, their bodies so close they were sharing breaths and Cassian was holding back by a sliver thread of self control to not hold her against him.

If it were not for the appearance of three people — Cassian supposed them to be Nesta’s companions — he very well could have done that.

“Excuse me” Cassian abruptly said, bowing deeply and leaving Nesta alone.

Although soon her friends joined her, Gywn and Emerie bombarding her with questions seeing her ruffled state.

Their party was getting ready to depart when Cassian appeared again, having ran inside to get changed and appropriate.

“Lady Nesta!” he called before she could get inside the carriage “Please allow me to apologise for not receiving you properly just now. You are not leaving?”

“We were, sir. We have already imposed too much” she said, spine straight and looking every bit the regal queen she was.

What he did not know was that was her way of maintaining a cool exterior and not blush remembering his naked figure.

“You are not displeased with Pemberley, are you?” Cassian asked, anxiously brushing his hair back.

“No. Not at all”

“And you approve of it?”

“Very much” Nesta said softly, a dreamy smile on her face as she remembered the library “A few would not approve”

“But your good opinion is rarely bestowed and therefore more worth earning” he said, and his smile was enough to make Nesta’s heart skip a beat.

Why was she feeling in such a way, she wondered. Why did her body feel hot and strange all over whenever Cassian was involved?

“Thank you. That is very kind of you”

“I shall not hold you back any longer” he said, helping her in the carriage, his calloused hand a stark contrast against her soft one “I will call on you and I hope you can introduce me to your companions. Perhaps we may go fishing tomorrow? My property is blessed with an abundance of them”

“We would be delighted to. Thank you, sir’

After the farewells were bid and Nesta’s carriage was only a distant dot in the horizon, Cassian got inside, smiling broadly at his head maid and butler.

“You are very chipper, sir'' the old woman said with a knowing smile, the butler agreeing with her. Their lord had been mopey for quite some time now, so it brought joy to their hearts to see his mood so high.

“I had a very good evening Mrs.Pots” he declared, thinking about how he should swim more frequently in the lake.

A few miles from Pemberley, Nesta stared at the scenery lost in thought, Cassian’s touch lingering in her hand all the way back to the inn.

•

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#nessian #cassian x nesta #nesta archeron #cassian #pride and prejudice AU #BBC version lake scene #sarah j maas #sjmaas #sjm books #sjm fanfic

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whateverhan · 2 years

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at Sarah P. Duke Gardens https://www.instagram.com/p/CWOq62-LVpmAY73kl07VHZ2kQi1tpwzQsrXJ4M0/?utm_medium=tumblr

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faguscarolinensis · 2 months

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Hyacinthus orientalis / Garden Hyacinth at the Sarah P. Duke Gardens at Duke University in Durham, NC

#Hyacinthus orientalis #Hyacinthus #Hyacinth #Garden Hyacinth #Common hyacinth #Dutch hyacinth #Flowers #Nature photography #photographers on tumblr #Sarah P. Duke Gardens #Duke Gardens #Duke University #Durham #Durham NC #North Carolina

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travelswithripley · 7 years

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Waterfall in the Sarah P. Duke Gardens at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina.

#sarah p duke gardens #garden #waterfall #duke #duke university #durham #north carolina #original photographer #original photographers #original photography #photographers of tumblr #photographers on tumblr

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raleigh-in-the-garden · 3 years

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Sarah P. Duke Gardens will reopen to the public with a limited capacity beginning on June 1. The Gardens will be open to visitors daily from 8 a.m. to dusk. But parking will only be available in the Gardens’ parking lot, with no weekend overflow available in nearby university lots. No buses, limousines or group visits can be accommodated in this phase.

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weirdnaturalscience · 5 years

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taken at the Sarah P. Duke Botanical Gardens 🐝

#my photos #my posts #bees #insects #photographers on Tumblr

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kevinnance · 7 years

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(Sarah P. Duke Gardens, Duke University)

#Duke University #Sarah P. Duke Gardens #photographers on tumblr #artists on tumblr #art

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gadgetgirl71 · 4 years

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Book Review: The Summer Fields by L P Fergusson

Another great book by L P Fergusson. I couldn’t put it down, I ended up reading late in to the night on a couple of occasions, until I finished the book. This book was like reading a classic such as Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights. Except that you didn’t have to try and understand the old spoken English. Which can sometimes detract from you wanting to read the classics. So if you like the classics and you don’t want to struggle with the old language then you’ll just love this book. I’m looking forward to seeing what L P Fergusson’s next book is.

In February 1704, Elen Griffiths is a young woman who lives with her father and sibling as tenant farmers. Since her mothers passing she had taken on the household duties as well as being a dairy maid.

Late one evening when the farm was almost asleep Elen and her father hear a horse and carriage coming into their yard. Elen is told to go up to bed and not come down until her father tells her to. As someone turning up at this late hour never means anything good.

It turns out that its the local Doctor, he requires Elen to go with him to Duntisbourne Hall and nurse Viscount Mordiford. As he has contracted small pox, it turns out that with Elen being a dairy maid she will not contract small pox.

So Elen is rushed away from her family during the night, without being able to say goodbye to her siblings. She didn’t even get a chance to pack any clothes as the Doctor dare not leave the Viscount any longer than he has too. The doctor says that one of her siblings will have to bring over anything that she may need at a later date.

Once they reach Duntisbourne Hall Elen is whisked away up to one of the halls towers which is far enough away from the rest of the household so no one else has the chance of catching small pox. One of the servants a Ned Harley has volunteered to take food, wood or anything else Elen or the Viscount may need while she nurses him back to health.

Elen soon ends up fitting in and gets in to a routine of caring for her charge. Every morning after breakfast she goes for a walk about the estate with Ned Harley. Then she goes back to her duty of care and during some quiet times she sits quietly and reads. It turns out that Elen is quite an educated woman, even though she is a dairy maid. Her mother was a governess but fell in love with Elen’s father, someone far below her mothers standing. She made sure that Elen could read and write. Due to this she is given the opportunity to go and borrow any book she takes a fancy to reading from the Halls grand library.

This is when Elen becomes a person of interest to the Viscounts father. Mordiford has tried to dismiss Elen ever since she turned up, as he knew once his father met her she would end up in danger. His father and his friends were in to some strange rituals and most of them had been disgraced from society at one point or the other.

Ned Harley is also involved with what Mordiford’s father and friends get up to, every time they have a gathering at the hall. He isn’t the charming and caring person that he pretends to be to Elen. One evening Ned organises to meet Elen in a remote summerhouse on the estate, but he has lured her there not for himself but for his master and his friends.

Mordiford finds out what is going to happen and drags himself out of his sick bed to rescure Elen. He takes on his father and his friends and whisks Elen away from the estate to safety. But Elen won’t be totally safe until she is out of the country, as his fathers reach is far and wide. So he takes her to the local Doctor’s house and asks him to shelter Elen. The Doctor isn’t to happy about this as he is due to leave the country and become the Doctor to the Duke of Marlborough during the Battle of Blenheim in Bavaria. Mordiford insists that he take Elen with him and say that she is to be his nursing assistant as she is more than capable. He says that he will send for Elen once it is safe for her to return.

The journey to the battle field is long and arduous, as well as dirty. Once they arrive on the continent they are put up in a small establishment with others that are to join the campaign. This is where Elen meets Mrs Sarah Barker and her husband the field surgeon. Sarah takes Elen under her wing and makes sure that she is safe when the Doctor isn’t around, she also teaches Elen how to nurse the wounded soldiers.

Elen keeps hoping that she will hear from Mordiford telling her that it is safe for her to return home, but the months go by with no word. Until one day a battalion of soldiers are making their way to the front and she spots Mordiford as he spots her. He is so glad to see her, and it’s noticable to all that he has a liking towards Elen.

They keep on bumping in to each other during the battle, and there is an attraction between them, but Sarah keeps telling her to be careful as she doesn’t want her to be used and thrown away once the war is over.

Will Elen ever be able to go back home. If she can go back home what will she do, does Mordiford really have feelings and affection for Elen or has he just been leading her up the garden path. Will there be a happy ever after?

Such another great read from L P Fergusson, she has a way of writing that is so vivid you are actually transported back in time. Yet again I can’t wait for her next book.

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