As holds true with all ambitious projects, many wonderful people offered their knowledge, talents, time, and support as I researched and wrote this book. The following people assisted me immensely—above and beyond my expectations. I am very grateful to them and to many, many others who generously provided information and insight.
The fabulous Old World Wisconsin staff has been extremely kind and helpful. They pitched in when needed so that I might retain some semblance of sanity as I tried to balance work and book.
Ellen Penwell, curator of collections at Old World Wisconsin, has done extensive research on the history of garden tools and furnishes the site’s historical gardeners with usable appropriate tools—many reproduced from originals, and others created from illustrations and descriptions in nineteenth-century gardening manuals. Ellen graciously shares her expertise on historical garden tools in the sidebar narratives she contributed throughout this book.
Marty Perkins, Old World Wisconsin’s curator of research, has served as this book’s in-house editor and valued advisor. He generously shared volumes from his personal library and patiently answered question after question from this struggling author. Marty has been part of Old World Wisconsin since its inception and, fortunately for me, has a remarkably fine memory. His advice, perspective, and support have been invaluable.
Jennifer Van Haaften, curator of interpretation at Old World Wisconsin, kindly reviewed historical recipes chosen for the book and was very helpful in translating them for modern usage.
The in-depth studies of German and Polish settlers in Wisconsin, prepared for Old World Wisconsin by Jim Miller and Susan Mikos respectively, provided well-researched documentation, for which I am extremely grateful.
Photographers Gerry and Signe Emmerich, Nancy Klemp, Sandy Matson, and Terry Molter very generously donated their time and talents to photograph the plants and gardens at Old World Wisconsin—often on a moment’s notice. Their creative work delivered outstanding examples of their dedication to perfection.
Loyd Heath, Mike Morbeck, and Larry Dickerson also generously shared their wonderful photographs, rounding out the fine images of the re-created gardens.
In addition to offering her photographic skills, Sandy Matson coordinated photographers’ visits, compiled images, and spent countless hours poring through and organizing pictures. She also stepped in as occasional research assistant—tracking down information by computer, phone, and trips to libraries—and back-up typist.
Deb Balis magically transformed pages and pages of handwritten ink scratchings into an electronically transferable manuscript. She kindly made herself available at unusual times, any day of the week, so that I could continue my full-time job and still make book deadlines.
The supportive staff of the Old World Wisconsin Foundation originally suggested I put together a small garden booklet. Periodically they delivered meals so that my husband would have something to eat while this book totally consumed me.
Laura Kearney, my Wisconsin Historical Society Press editor, was very kind and encouraging throughout this undertaking and—to my delight—shares my enthusiasm for plants. I greatly appreciated her attention to detail along every step in the process of this book’s creation.
My wonderful husband patiently—or resignedly—tolerated life with an overloaded historical gardener/writer during this project. He deserves a medal (though he would rather have a tractor).
My parents have always given me their loving encouragement to pursue my dreams. Their support never wavered through this endeavor.
This book could never have been written without the Old World Wisconsin historical garden volunteers. They turn my plans and visions for the gardens into reality. In addition to their hard work through long hours, they supplied encouragement, humor, and numerous welcome desserts. They brighten my days and always amaze me with their dedication and generosity.
I am very fortunate to have had the kindness and support of all these—and many more—incredible people. This book has truly been a labor of love.