Foreword R. William Thomas, Executive Director and Head Gardener This book is a testament to the people who have made Chanticleer. To Adolph and Christine Rosengarten, who purchased the property, built the home, and raised two children who would grow up to love the place. To their son, Adolph, Jr., who loved the trees, lawns, homes, and spirit of the site so much he left it to be a public garden. He endowed it well and trusted the Board of Directors he appointed and the staff he and they hired to develop the property into something special. To his wife, Janet, who tended her own personal flower garden outside her husband's library window and advised him to preserve the land, inspiring the Foundation's creation. To the members of the Board of Directors, who manage the money wisely, set policies carefully, who love the garden enough to trust its operation to a skilled and talented staff, and who know each employee's name.

To Christopher Woods, Chanticleer's first Executive Director, who transformed a pretty estate into an amazing pleasure garden. And, finally, to the staff, who have designed the garden, made it visually and sensually exciting, and built the furniture, the bridges, and the drinking fountains. On his first visit to the gardens, writer Adrian Higgins understood Chanticleer. He recognized its liveliness, and he comprehended the artistry and continual reinvention of the site. He witnessed the love and devotion the staff incorporates into every aspect of the place. He visited regularly and spoke with each person. He has ably conveyed into words the uniqueness of Chanticleer. Rob Cardillo has photographed Chanticleer for many years now.

He enthusiastically embraced this project, capturing a year in images. Living nearby, he came whenever the light was just right, the garden at the stage he wanted. I would often see him while I was on an early morning or late afternoon walk. He was tenacious about capturing a particular image and with his inquisitive eye he has made many stunning views of the garden. Accurately encapsulating a garden in words and images is an agreeable but daunting task --and nearly impossible. A garden is multidimensional, having visual and textural depth complemented with sounds and smells. It is an ephemeral place, changing daily, with plants coming into and out of bloom, and by the moment, as the sun goes behind a cloud, a breeze blows, a bird chirps. For this difficult task, we have two amazing artists to portray the garden.

Welcome to Chanticleer!.