CAMDEN — The title has changed slightly but the excitement is building exactly as it has for the past 72 years, according to Camden Garden Club, in a news release.

Once again Camden Garden Club will be presenting six properties, some old, some new, all unique, Thursday, July 18, from 9:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. – rain or shine.

The oldest property, located in Camden, dates to circa 1820 and mixes history with contemporary design, fine finishes and wonderful amenities, all set in a mature landscape of lush greenery.

Construction on the tour’s newest property, an enchanting creation of classic architecture crafted for comfort, began in 2017.  Set on three stunning acres east of Rockport Harbor amid private cottage gardens, specimen trees and an infinity pool.  

Also located in Rockport is a stately 1870s home with an abundance of detail. Gables, cornices, bay windows and dormers enhance the exterior while the interior exudes elegance with a wealth of antique furnishings including a magnificent chandelier in the dining room. 

A 1990s shingle style, post and beam cottage is positioned to maximize natural light throughout with an oversized kitchen and expanded living spaces built for entertaining.  The garden is a colorful mix of perennials, annuals, and an abundance of heirloom daylilies. 

The final two properties focus on outdoor getaways. There is a charming artist’s studio in the “painter’s” garden, a chicken coop, a garden house, and a romantic pond.  

A bonus opportunity is being included this year. Local artist Colin Page will be setting up his easel at one of the properties during the tour and his completed original painting will be the prize in a drawing held at the end of the day.  

Page studied painting at Rhode Island School of Design and at Cooper Union, receiving his BFA in 2000. He recently had solo shows at Courthouse Fine Art Gallery in Ellsworth, Debra Huse Gallery in Balboa Island, California, and Anglin Smith Fine Art in Charleston, South Carolina. 

He has also participated in numerous group shows internationally.  

Tickets for the drawing can be purchased on Saturday, July 13 in front of French & Brawn on Elm Street in Camden, and at St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, 33 Chestnut Street in Camden on Tour Day. 

Sales benefit the Camden Garden Club Scholarship Program.                                                                                                   

The proceeds from the Garden & Home Tour are used for civic improvement, beautification and education, just as the Camden Garden Club founders intended back in 1915.  The hanging baskets in summer, the lighted wreaths in winter, the flowers in the traffic islands and public landing planters, as well as many other projects, are all funded by the tour. 

For more information about the Tour and to purchase advance tickets online visit: www.CamdenGardenClub.org or contact CamdenGardenClub100@gmail.com.