There are lilacs and hawthorns and laburnums blossoming

"I walk here as much as I can, but I’m very busy. It’s absolutely beautiful here (even though it’s in the city). There are lilacs and hawthorns and laburnums &c. blossoming in all the gardens, and the chestnut trees are magnificent." 

Vincent van Gogh letter to Theo April 1874

Lilacs
Vincent Van Gogh May 1889
Hermitage Museum

We don't think Van Gogh painted lilacs until 15 years later, but he enjoyed admiring them when he lived here.

I wonder if his letter to Theo was referring to some of these local beauties below, snapped by Elaine yesterday in Durand Gardens. Durand Gardens was called The Grove when Vincent lived here.

Find out more on Vincent's walk to work this afternoon. Meet at 2pm at 87 Hackford Road.

"There are lilacs....

hawthorns....

and laburnums &c. blossoming in all the gardens,

and the chestnut trees are magnificent."