Antique Dahlias
The Wrights and the Legacy of the Linville Orange Dahlia
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Thomas, "Thomps," Wright, a painter and wallpaper designer, worked at Old Linville Resorts in the 1950s. A client gifted him a start of the ‘Big Linville Orange’ Dahlia, which has gradually taken on a more yellow hue over the years. Arlene Shell Wright nurtured these dahlias on Shady St. in Newland, NC, until her passing in 2004. Following her, her children took over the stewardship of these cherished flowers.
Anna Lou and the Timeless Linville Red Dahlia
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Anna Lou (Hicks) Presnell Watson moved to Banner Elk, NC, in 1955 and later to Newland in 1958, where her family resided in the Old Jail. Anna Lou, along with her daughters, managed the jail and cooked for the imprisoned people. In 1962, they returned to Banner Elk, and after the passing of Jimmie Daniels' father in 1968, Anna Lou's mother remarried and moved to Frank, NC. Anna Lou had a passion for dahlias and other flowers, selling them via mail order for many years. She acquired the large Linville Red dahlia long before her passing in 2013 at the age of 94.
This legacy of dahlias continues to thrive, honoring the dedication of those who cultivated them. Today, these cherished dahlia tubers are specially cared for at Arborcrest Gardens, where we are honored to preserve their beauty and history for future generations to enjoy. Our commitment to nurturing these remarkable flowers reflects the passion and love that the Wright family and Anna Lou Presnell instilled in their cultivation, ensuring that their vibrant legacy endures in our community.
