An Unexpected English Garden Is Hiding In South Dakota

South Dakota has many wonderful attractions, but it's not exactly the kind of place you'd expect to find an English garden...especially one with a little thatched cottage.

The next time you're in Wessington Springs, check out the Shakespeare Garden and Hathaway Cottage. It's located at 501 Alene Avenue N.

This little garden got its start thanks to a local English teacher.

Mrs. Emma Shay taught English at Wessington Springs Seminary, and she traveled to England in 1926. When she retired, she and her husband built the Anne Hathaway cottage, using postcards from Stratford-upon-Avon as a reference.

This little thatched cottage is the only building in South Dakota with an authentic, thatched roof.

The cottage wasn't originally built with a thatched roof - it was completed in 1999.

Sit on a bench in a shady spot for some quiet solitude.

You'll find many varieties of plants and flowers here, and some soothing water features, too.

You might even find a tiny fairy house!

Shakespeare said it best - basking in the beauty of nature is a wonderful way to relax and foster a sense of community with others who are doing the same thing.

This charming place is all about community. In the summer, the garden hosts a free concert series.

Visit during one of the garden's afternoon teas for an experience you won't find anywhere else.

For more information about the garden and its visiting hours, call 605-539-1529, or visit the garden's website.

We'd love to hear your stories and see your photos if you've ever visited this adorable little garden!

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