COLUMBIA, S.C. — Welcome to Spring at the Wells Japanese Garden
Today marks the exciting arrival of spring, and what better way to celebrate than by visiting the stunning Wells Japanese Garden in the lovely city of Newberry? If you haven’t been there yet, this peaceful destination offers free admission and encourages everyone to come and soak in its serene beauty. With its recent renovations completed in 2022, the garden is truly a hidden gem just waiting to be explored.
A Piece of History
The Wells Japanese Garden, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, has a rich history that dates back to its design by architect W. Fulmer Wells in 1930. According to landscape architect Laura Dukes, Wells was inspired by the Golden Gate Japanese Park in San Francisco. After finishing his education at Georgia Tech, he returned to his roots and began creating this stunning Japanese garden.
You might find it fascinating to know that the garden was initially part of the Wells family’s residence on Harrington Street. Dukes explained that the original layout was designed to be viewed from a different perspective than what visitors see today, stating that “it was meant to be a part of his garden, so you would stroll down this hill and come and enjoy it.” Isn’t it interesting how gardens can change their purpose over the years?
A Transformative Journey
Fast forward forty years from its original creation, the Wells family decided to donate the garden to the city. However, as the city took over, the garden began to lose its once vibrant allure. Collin Shealy, the city’s Director of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism, noted that “there was a period where it was under the city’s maintenance and it had fallen off a little bit.” Fortunately, it was around 2020 when plans to revitalize this incredible space started to take shape.
By 2021, efforts were in full swing, and the renovations officially commenced. The goal was clear: to restore the garden to its former glory. Shealy pointed out a significant aspect of the renovation, sharing, “We wanted to put a lot of emphasis on bringing the ponds back to where they were; they had gotten overgrown.” With dedicated teamwork and passion, they truly captured the essence of what makes a Japanese garden special, particularly with the picturesque archway entrance.
Unique Features
One remarkable feature that Laura explained about the entrance is its unique design where one side is larger than the other. This brilliant design element serves a purpose: “You would open it for sunrise and sunset or you would open it the other way.” How amazing is it that something so simple can reflect the changing beauty of nature?
Though Wells sought to create a garden that embodied the classic elements of a Japanese garden, he also carefully incorporated a South Carolina twist. According to Dukes, “The South Carolina element that Fulmer Wells did add to it was having the bald cypresses in there and some saw palmetto.” Imagine strolling through a tranquil garden and encountering such unique botanicals that reflect the local landscape!
Welcoming Guests
After the renovations wrapped up in June 2022, the Wells Japanese Garden has welcomed many visitors who have come to enjoy its tranquil beauty. As Shealy points out, there have also been “small intimate weddings” held in this picturesque spot, emphasizing just how meaningful this garden has become for the community. “It’s great that it really is able to receive some of the love, and it’s so meaningful for our folks here,” he concluded warmly.
With spring upon us and the garden thriving, now is the perfect time to take a leisurely stroll through the Wells Japanese Garden. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, a romantic spot for a small wedding, or simply an opportunity to reconnect with nature, this garden offers all that and more. If you find yourself in Newberry, be sure to stop by and experience the magic of the Wells Japanese Garden!
