HISTORY

The story of how Wessington Springs, South Dakota became home to an
​English Garden and a replica of  Anne Hathaway's cottage.
​ In 1926, Mrs. Emma Shay, English teacher at Wessington Springs Seminary, borrowed $1,000.00 to travel throughout England. Her purpose was to increase her knowledge and ability to teach English literature. She collected flowers, leaves, grasses and bits of bark from the homes of famous literary figures. These were later mounted in portfolios and sold to pay the debt. The diary of her trip is published in Mrs. Shay Did It, by Grace Abrahamson.
Anne Hathaway Cottage was built by Professor Shay and Mrs. Shay when they retired in 1932. The builders drew the plans from a picture postcard of the original at Stratford-on-Avon. It is said to be an excellent likeness of the left half. The terraced garden to the west of the cottage is the Anne Hathaway Garden, built by Professor Shay. In 1938 the upper lily pool was added, and the wishing well was built by the sophomore class three years later.
The cottage is available
to rent for
special events and Teas.
Contact a board member for scheduling and
​ more information.
Visitors are welcome to enjoy the garden.