Get ready to be transported back in time to an era of glamour and sophistication, as you soak in the lush beauty of 2-acres alongside an iconic west-end Allentown residence that is now highlighted by the following: 125 different varieties of roses, a shade garden with mature rhododendrons, azaleas, heuchera, and countless hostas—to pollinator and vegetable gardens, a vineyard, and a fruit orchard—to four recently restored lamp posts that once graced Hamilton Street in downtown Allentown. Society of the Arts (SOTA) is pleased to present hess's Flower Show: REIMAGINED, its first-ever flower show fundraiser. This one-of-kind event, set for Saturday, July 22 from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, will happen at the outdoor gardens of the former Hess Mansion, now Kroll Manor, owned by Dan J. Kroll.
Decades ago, between 1964 -1973, the legendary Hess Brothers Department Store presented Hess’s Flower Show at its Allentown flagship store. Now, almost 60 years later, SOTA, also established nearly 60 years ago,
will creatively reimagine this flower show outdoors at Kroll Manor’s garden,
adjacent to the former home of Max Hess Jr.
In addition to enjoying Kroll Manor’s beauty and diverse array of flowers,
guests will have the opportunity to listen to a self-guided audio tour by
owner Dan J. Kroll, plus participate in a curated series of live demos and
talks by garden experts happening each half hour. Since this outdoor
event is weather dependent, the rain date will be the following
Saturday, July 29.
"We are honored by Dan Kroll's generosity in opening his gardens to SOTA and our community," said SOTA President, Priti Merchant. "This event is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the rich history and cultural heritage of our community, while enjoying the beauty of the outdoor gardens and the exterior grandeur of an historic home. We have put together an exciting program of activities for our guests, and we can't wait to share it with you all!"Don't miss out on this extraordinary opportunity to experience the charm of the past, while celebrating the vibrancy of the present. Get your tickets today!
"We are honored by Dan Kroll's generosity in opening his gardens to SOTA and our community," said SOTA President, Priti Merchant.
About Society of the Arts
Society of the Arts (SOTA) is a nonprofit cultural organization founded in 1964 with a mission to support the Allentown Art Museum's presentation of outstanding artistic programs. Throughout the year, the SOTA offers a number of public events, including docent tours, art activities for children and families, Luncheon with the Authors, the SOTA Show House, and more. Throughout our close to sixty-year history, SOTA has contributed generously to the Allentown Art Museum. Our gifts have included funds for the purchase of more than 350 prints for the Museum’s collections through the SOTA Print Fund, the creation of the SOTA Education Endowment, and financial support for “Free Sundays,” “Art Ways” and other Museum educational needs. Society of the Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
SOTA is dedicated to advancing and promoting the mission of the Allentown Art Museum, in our community and beyond.