established in the 19th century

Montrose, a listed property in the National Register of Historic Places, is the home of Nancy and Craufurd Goodwin. In the middle of the 19th century Governor William Alexander Graham and his wife, Susan Washington Graham, began to develop gardens on the site.  Following their purchase of Montrose in 1977, the Goodwins have maintained and expanded the original plantings. In 2007 they established the Montrose Foundation Inc., a tax-exempt entity that will care for the gardens and buildings after they can no longer manage them.

The grounds include several 19th century buildings, a rock garden, scree garden, extensive woodland plantings, and large areas of sunny gardens with unique color and planting schemes. Unusual trees and trellises, fences, and arbors, designed and constructed by local artist, enhance the gardens. Winter gardens are a special feature of Montrose.

In 2014 for the first time the Garden of Montrose came under the administration of the Montrose Foundation Inc. This means that for all public events, such as Garden Open Day, the foundation will cover the costs. To the extent that the revenue may exceed costs, this excess will be used to support Montrose in the future.

The Goodwins’ interest in preservation of gardens has led to their working with the Garden Conservancy and the North Carolina Triangle Land Conservancy to ensure Montrose’s continuation.