Proposed by: Magnolia Garden Club, Zone IX
Seconded by: a member of Founders Garden Club of Dallas, Zone IX

The Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation continues the legacy of its founders, H.J. Lutcher Stark and his wife Nelda Childers Stark, through its various programs, providing the community and region with rich resources and opportunities for study and enjoyment of the arts, history and nature. To fulfill its mission, the Stark Foundation operates several venues, including two of special historical significance, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center and the W.H. Stark House Museum. In the1940s Lutcher Stark created the gardens, named for the mystical land in the best-selling Lost Horizon. Present-day Shangri La reflects and preserves the aspirations of its founder and offers visitors a new restored paradise. As one of the most earth-friendly projects in the world, Shangri La was the first project in Texas and the 50th in the world to earn the U. S. Green Building Council’s Platinum certification for LEED-NC. Shangri La’s motto reflects its philosophy: “Be Kind to Your World.” The W.H. Stark House is an impressive and successful effort by the Foundation to preserve the Stark’s historic home, replicating the times and imagery of affluent life in Southeast Texas at the turn of the 20th century. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and as a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. Because the Starks were lifelong collectors of fine art and art objects, the house abounds with a wealth of priceless items. Especially significant is the fact that all the home’s furnishings are original to the Stark family.