“. . . the butterfly folk live in a kingdom of beautiful gardens. They play, dance and sing all day long . . .”

​

Published in 1915, The Story of the Butterfly Children, by Sibylle von Olfers, will be featured in a book walk at the Porter House Museum, located at 401 West Broadway in Decorah.  Beginning at 4:00 p.m. Thursday, August 1 visitors may read the story, stroll the gardens, enjoy treats served on the front porch and register for prizes.  A drawing for prizes will conclude the opening event at 5:15 p.m. 

The book will remain on display through Sunday, Aug. 11 for children, families and others to enjoy during daylight hours.

​

Beautifully illustrated in the art nouveau style, this classic children's story hearkens back to the era when Adelbert (Bert) and Grace (Young) Porter tended the gardens of their stately Victorian home.  The Porters traveled the world and amassed a collection of butterflies and other natural curiosities, many on display inside the museum.

​

The Story of the Butterfly Children depicts peacock, swallowtail, red admiral and other butterflies, newly hatched from cocoons, getting their wings and enjoying the bright flowers around their kingdom.  The book walk is sponsored by Decorah Parks and Recreation, the Porter House Museum and an anonymous member/donor.