A Red Bud Tree and a Mermaid

Spring is gorgeous in the purple blossoms of the Red Bud Tree. The mermaid sits below, enjoying the mysterious flowers as she longs for the deep green sea. This photo was taken by Maureen Spagnolo, outside her home in Washington, D.C.

Mclean Gardens is the name of the former estate purchased in 1898 by wealthy businessman John R. Mclean. The mermaid, six other similar statues, and a very expensive cupid fountain remain from that lavish estate, ultimately demolished in 1942. Condominiums were built on the property in 1982.