Friends of Hearst Castle supports the historic restoration of the Monument’s formal gardens, which were designed by W. R. Hearst and his architect Julia Morgan in a Mediterranean style.

As with all gardens, those on the Enchanted Hill have changed over the years; old trees have blown down in storms; others have grown to shade areas once sunny; changes have been made to accommodate the many visitors; and small incremental changes have accumulated over the 50 years since W.R. Hearst died.

Castle staff performed meticulous research to prepare for the Garden Restoration project. Curators have identified the original plant species used and their placement on the grounds of the world-famous estate located in San Simeon, California. The detailed research utilized old photographs, historical records and letters written by William Randolph Hearst and Castle architect Julia Morgan. The five-year restoration plan includes the re-introduction of over 90 plant species to the Hilltop.

Friends of Hearst Castle has just completed a two-year partnership with California Garden Clubs, Inc. to raise funds for the project. FHC is very grateful for the support of CGCI's many member clubs, and, especially, president Bob Gordon, for making this effort his "President's Project." Over $20,000 was raised by CGCI, which will be matched by funds provided by FHC.

Friends of Hearst Castle would like to thank the hundreds of gardeners and garden clubs that made this effort a success, and especially recognize the following major contributors:

With your support, we can restore these gardens to their original splendor for the enjoyment and enrichment of generations to come. Thank you!