Olive Percival

Olive May Graves Percival (Technical World Magazine, Oct 1906)

Olive Percival (July 1, 1869 – February 18, 1945) was an American author, gardener, and art collector based in Los Angeles, California. She was a notable figure in the early 20th century cultural life of Los Angeles, contributing significantly to its literary and artistic communities. Percival's legacy includes her writings, her historic home, and her extensive gardens, which reflected her interests in history, literature, and horticulture.

Early Life

Olive Percival was born in 1869 in Sheffield, Illinois, to a family with New England roots. The Percivals moved to Los Angeles in 1887, where Olive would spend the majority of her life. Despite facing financial difficulties after the death of her father, Percival managed to cultivate a rich intellectual and artistic life for herself.

Career and Contributions

Percival's career spanned various interests, including literature, gardening, and art collecting. She worked for the Los Angeles Public Library for over a decade, which allowed her to engage deeply with the literary community. Percival was also an active member of several cultural and historical societies, including the Zamorano Club and the California Garden Club.

Literary Works

Olive Percival was a prolific writer, though much of her work was published posthumously. Her diaries, which she kept throughout her life, offer insights into the cultural life of Los Angeles during her time. She also wrote children's books, poetry, and essays on gardening and historical subjects. Her book, The Children's Garden Book (1905), is a notable work that provides instructions for children to create their own gardens, reflecting her belief in the educational value of gardening.

Gardening and Horticulture

Percival's interest in gardening was more than a hobby; it was an integral part of her life and work. Her Los Angeles home, known as the Downey Avenue house, featured an extensive garden that she designed herself. The garden included a variety of plants, both native and exotic, and was laid out in a series of outdoor "rooms" that reflected different historical and thematic inspirations. Percival's gardens became a gathering place for the city's intellectual and artistic community and were featured in several contemporary publications.

Art Collection

Percival was also known for her collection of Asian art, rare books, and manuscripts, which she amassed over her lifetime. Her home served as a salon for the discussion and appreciation of art and literature, attracting writers, artists, and intellectuals from across the country.

Legacy

Olive Percival left behind a rich legacy through her writings, her garden, and her contributions to the cultural life of Los Angeles. After her death in 1945, her home and garden fell into disrepair but were later restored. Today, they are recognized as important cultural and historical landmarks. Percival's work, particularly in the realm of gardening and horticulture, continues to be celebrated for its creativity and its influence on garden design in Southern California.

See Also

• History of Los Angeles
• American literature
• Gardening in the United States