Explore an array of Victorian era texts featuring plant content, gardens, poison plants and murder mysteries, along with mourning and grief with members of the Mourning Society of St. Louis (dressed in period costume). Learn more about specific literary works used to symbolize loss, grief, and rebirth, including Rappaccini’s Daughter, The Secret Garden, The Picture of Dorian Gray, and Pride and Prejudice.

Make mourning crafts of Victorian mourning jewelry and embroider handkerchiefs with Creative Experience at St. Louis Public Library. Sponsored by Nancy Ridenour. This event is included in Garden admission.

The Stephen and Peter Sachs Museum is one of the historic structures on the grounds of the Garden. This event is a collaboration with the special exhibition: The Literary Garden:The Cultivation of Plants & Gardens in Narratives May 8, 2026–March 31, 2027!

The Stephen and Peter Sachs Museum

image courtesy of Mary Lou Olsen