GIFT OF THE SWAN

A debut collection of full-color photographs, inspirational quotes, and information about the breathtaking waterfowl of Swan Lake Iris Gardens in Sumter, South Carolina.

In this brief, gentle paean to the graceful beauty of swans, Gochnauer notes that Swan Lake Iris Gardens is home to all eight known species of the waterfowl. The park was first envisioned in 1927 by entrepreneur Hamilton Carr Bland, an avid outdoorsman who acquired 50 swampy acres and painstakingly transformed it into a serene lake with multiple small islands. Ultimately, Bland deeded his land to the city of Sumter, notes Gochnauer, and on top of that donation, the A.T. Heath family deeded 79 acres to the city. Thanks to Bland’s vision and work, the park now boasts more than 150 acres and remains free and open to the public. He also acquired numerous swans, which continue to make the gardens their home. Gochnauer presents photos of all eight species of the bird—including mute, trumpeter, whooper, Bewick’s, tundra, black, coscoroba, and black-necked varieties. These images feature lush details; in one photo, for instance, a pair of mute swans curve their necks as they daintily feed in brackish water that’s thick with sun-soaked green plants. Another image of a black swan with her chicks in rippling water radiates the energy of youth, and still another photo’s watery reflections of a trumpeter swan among shady cypress trees will particularly appeal to nature lovers. This lovely, easily browsable assemblage also contains some compelling information that may be useful to young students; for example, Gochnauer notes that the trumpeter swan was hunted into near extinction by the 1930s. The author sprinkles in quotes from nature enthusiasts, such as Henry David Thoreau, throughout the book.

A peaceful stroll for waterfowl lovers.