No. 7 On The Map
The Sundial Bed
At the edge of the flowerbed, an 18th century English bronze sundial sits atop a 13th century Gothic column capital of Caen limestone discovered in monastery ruins near Rheims Cathedral in France. The capital was acquired from the collection of George Grey Barnard and installed in the Bishop’s Garden in 1928. Mrs. John H. Gibbons, who was the second President of All Hallows Guild, gave the sundial as a memorial to her mother, Mrs. Richard S. Ely.
In the center of this changing display of annuals, bulbs, and herbs sits a pomegranate tree. In the spring you will find the Sundial Bed filled with flowering bulbs. In summer the horticulture staff create colorful displays of annuals and herbs.
From the Sundial Bed, turn toward the Cathedral and step off of the brick pavers to the stone walkway. You will find the Pool of St. Catherine at the west end of the stone wall that runs parallel to the Cathedral.
Help Us Keep The Gardens Growing
Partner with us to ensure that the 57 acres of gardens and grounds surrounding Washington National Cathedral continue to be a haven of peace and refreshment in the midst of the Nation’s Capital.
