Just 25 miles away from Fort Worth, Chandor Gardens, in Weatherford, Texas, shares elegance and architecture.
“The gardens are a historical landmark, having been built and cultivated by the preeminent portrait artist of his time,” said Karen Nantz, manager of Chandor Gardens. “Douglas Chandor painted portraits for many noteworthy historical individuals including the likes of Queen Elizabeth, Winston Churchill, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt, Herbert Hoover and more. The mansion functioned both as his portrait studio and the Chandors’ family home. We have two completed Chandor original portraits, as well as antique prints, historical artifacts and antiques.”
The gardens are located on a 3½-acre estate that captures both the feel of a formal English garden and the ornate design of Chinese architecture. They were designed to represent the love that Douglas Chandor had for his wife, Ina.
Groups have the choice of experiencing the gardens through a guided or self-guided visit.
“There are a variety of things to see and do at Chandor Gardens, whether it’s taking a private stroll through the romantic gardens or having a docent-guided group tour, getting a historical tour of the house, having a catered lunch in Douglas Chandor’s portrait studio or in the courtyard,” Nantz said. “There is always something new growing and blooming in the gardens, whether it’s peak spring or fall, or in the middle of a seasonal shift, so there is always something new to see and experience.”
Chandor Gardens has annual and seasonal events that take place, including the Chandor Gardens Annual Holiday Open House, Goblins in the Garden, and the Spring Fling event, which features live music, artists and artisans throughout the gardens.
Two weeks to a month’s notice for a guided tour is recommended. A catered lunch at the gardens can be added on for an additional cost.
For more information, call 817-613-1700 or visit chandorgardens.com.