A Garden Scene - pastel painting

This is a work-in-progress painting.  I started it today en plein air at this beautiful little private garden.  I am now working on it at home.

This garden home property has a history!  Below are some pictures of their commemorative plaque that was dedicated by several organizations including the Nevada Historical Society and Reno Historical Presevation Society on the 4th of July this year.

It reads:  "Site of Ricks Roadhouse Resort, circa 1906.  Jack Johnson established his training quarters here for the July 4, 1910 'Fight of the Century' against Jim Jefferies, 'The Great White Hope'.  In terms of race relations, this was one of the most important events worldwide.  In 1922, the property became 'The Willows', a famous speakeasy and gaming house, where the rich and fashionable flocked to this location to flaunt social convention.  The willows met its fiery end in 1932.