![Back of the house overlooking the lawn down to the water.](https://travelinggardener.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/DSCN8342.jpg)
The Blithewold, Mansion sits surrounded by woodlands and a grand lawn looking out on an ocean view. Established in 1895 the last surviving family member lived in the home until 1976. These old estate gardens change over the years but some specific elements remain to help you see what was there. The word Blithewold means “happy woodlands” and so trees were an important part of the landscape. A 90 yr. old Sequoia is doing very well.
![Double stair into the sunken garden](https://travelinggardener.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/DSC_3193.jpg)
The double stone staircase for entrance into the North Garden remains but is no longer useable. The perennial gardens and cutting gardens were once major elements of such a landscape and even today the flowers which decorate the interior rooms come from the garden.
![Detail of large urn](https://travelinggardener.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/DSCN8380.jpg)
A grand pot inlaid with gold color mosaic tiles sparkles in the woodland walk. There were lawn parties here, the ladies wore white cotton dresses, games were played, the blue ocean view was beautiful then and it still is today.
![The moon gate entry to the woodland garden](https://travelinggardener.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2015/10/DSC_3168.jpg)