September, 2010 marks the completion of the Estonian Garden’s remodeling project which replaces the original central walkway with a raised, sandstone, boat-shaped planter surrounding by sandstone paver walks.  With the Baltic Sea being such an integral part of Estonian life this “boat” brings additional cultural significance to the Garden while providing a focal area for attractive plantings.  At the stern of the boat, adjacent to the MLK Jr. Blvd sidewalk, is text incised in a paver which displays the relevant part of the Estonian epic poem, Kalevipoeg, which inspired the vertical, abstract sculpture which has been the most prominent feature of the Garden since its dedication in 1966.  The prominent text location will help visitors understand the sculpture and translate, in part, the Estonian text on the vertical sculpture itself.  On either side on this new text are twin flame shapes.  Across the walks are the names of prominent supporters and donors to the Garden and its remodeling.  Holden Parks Trust also played a key role in underwriting the remodeling.  Photos of the newly remodeled Garden and text follow:

Close up of text from Kalevipoeg

Remodeled central area of Estonian Garden--2010

Renovating the Estonian Garden has been the result of a lot of hard work and effort on the Garden committee’s part.  Now all of that hard work is coming to fruition with construction well underway.  See the attached photos for the plan and an interim shot of the progress.

Estonian Renovated Garden Design

August Status Estonian Renovation

Monthly meetings from January through December: Making Garden renovation plans.

June 6th: Annual “Talgud” at the Garden.  Nine volunteers worked diligently for three hours planting nine flats of begonias.

June 28th: Võidupüha-Jaanipaeva celebration; see photo of program for details

December: Holiday decorations were placed in the Estonian Garden

Plans for 2010: Renovate the Estonian Garden

Erika Puussar, Primary Delegate, Estonian Cultural Garden

Talgud participants on June 6, 2009

June 28, 2009 program for Võidupüha-Jaanipaeva celebration

Participants at June 28, 2009 Võidupüha-Jaanipaeva

Epic poem source for Flame sculpture in Estonian Garden

Restoration plan for Estonian Garden

Renovation Solicitation November, 2009

Restoration brochure--page 1 of 2

Restoration brochure--page 2 of 2