Each year when my camellias are blooming, I think fondly of Emily Whaley. Mrs. Whaley said you pronouce if ca-mayl-ya.
Is the name Emily Whaley familiar to you? Mrs. Whaley died in 1998 at the age of eighty-seven, but during her life she accomplished great acts.
I first came to know of Mrs. Whaley when I read a review of her memoir, "Mrs. Whaley and her Charleston Garden". The review immediately appealed to me because of my love of Charleston, and it was that same day that I purchased the book and read it in its entirety. The book is always within easy reach in our home, and I often peruse it with pleasure.
Mrs. Whaley was one amazing lady. She was born in a small town in South Carolina, and later married Ben Whaley who became a prominent lawyer in the Charleston area. Mrs. Whaley was one of the first to open her garden to the public to raise money for charities, and her garden became one of the most well-known private gardens in our country.
She was quite an accomplished pianist and dancer, and she is credited with helping to start the Cotillion in Charleston. She raised her family in Charleston, and became one of the city's most respected citizens.
She tells her life's story in a totally captivating manner, and she fast becomes someone you know you would have been honored to have as an acquaintance. I am happy to have known her even though it was only through her books. If you have the opportunity, read this book. Allow yourself to be charmed and fascinated by Mrs. Whaley.
