The Minneapolis Tulip House garden is once again blooming.
The future of the annual display at the well-known and well-visited “Tulip House” hung in the balance at the end of the season. The home’s owner, Lisa Stortz, who for years created the stunning display of blooms, had passed away.
Neighbors were deeply shaken. She had been the social anchor of the neighborhood, frequently bringing them together and generously hosting them on the deck beside her home.
Seeking a way to honor her, neighbors banded together to raise funds for a memorial tulip garden at Joanne R. Levin Park in East Isles, colloquially known as Triangle Park.
With help from the Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board, two large stands of tulips were planted, and visitors can rest on a bench, which now has a memorial plaque, while admiring the tulips in bloom.
Countless neighbors on Humboldt Avenue South and surrounding streets also planted tulips on their own properties and boulevards as blooming tributes.
The house was sold last summer. With little time before the first frost, the new owner decided to plant tulips as well. Aided by neighbors who were busy with their own bulbs, the future garden was quickly planted.
The first sprouts of the renewed Tulip House garden have appeared, heralding the arrival of spring. Lisa, often called “the Tulip Lady,” was very private and never sought the spotlight for her spectacular floral display.
“All her neighbors are sure she would be smiling, knowing the tradition she started continues to live on.”
Even so, all her neighbors are sure she would be smiling, knowing the tradition she started continues to live on.
Once again, we look forward to welcoming visitors from all over the Cities and surrounding region to our beloved, tulip-filled neighborhood.
Barbara LaBounta lives in East Isles.
