For the Love of Labyrinths

Written and photographed by Amy Grisak

Lewistown, Montana 

Tucked into the heart of Montana is a little-known gem called the Lewistown Community Labyrinth Garden. The flower-lined paths at the geographical center of the state, right in the middle of Lewistown beckons visitors to take a relaxing stroll. Roughly three decades ago, the idea was born as Lewistown resident Jean Cecil and her husband Bill created a small rock labyrinth near their home, which became a frequent stop for folks wishing to walk the circuit.

To help with the vision, in1996, the City of Lewistown donated space in Frank Day Park and a coalition of flower-loving volunteers, including Jean, set to work on building a seven-circuit labyrinth for the entire region. The Lewistown Labyrinth Garden is more than a typical garden with arrangement of annuals and perennials, the winding rows have a depth that resonates with people on a variety of levels. 

“Jean was a spiritual person and she saw the need for a labyrinth in town,” Nadine Robertson, longtime coordinator and volunteer, explained.

For over 4,000 years, these oft circular patterns, around the world, mimic nature and have offered walking paths intended to promote inner reflection.

Reverend Dr. Lauren Artress, is considered by many to be the ‘godmother of the modern labyrinth movement.’ Dr. Artress founded Veriditas, a non-profit organization, in San Fransico, and is dedicated to the movement. Veriditas’ website has a worldwide map which includes the labyrinth in Lewistown. Her efforts mirror the efforts of the Lewistown volunteers. 

"When our culture is in progressive chaos - or uncertainty - like we are entering now, the labyrinth quiets their minds,” she said.

A labyrinth is not a maze as the path leads directly to the center, then back out the same way, it is a structure which provides the feeling of safety, allowing those on its route to release and relax their minds. The process simply requires following the footpath and being in the moment. It’s within that liminal realm where deep spiritual and emotional work often occurs. 

While there’s no right or wrong way to journey through a labyrinth, the “Three R’s” offer some direction. It starts with “releasing,” then “receiving” while sitting or standing in the center of the labyrinth for as long as needed, and finally “returning” by winding back to the beginning.

Dr. Artress explained that the first step, releasing, is perhaps the most important. “You really try to let go of expectations. It's like walking into the ocean for the first time. I call that ‘going in open.”

The Lewistown Labyrinth Garden offers that peace to visitors. Blossoms create an ever-changing palette, stretching 90-feet in diameter.

The project was no easy feat for volunteers who removed sod and installed at least one-half mile of black edging to create the pattern. Krings Greenhouse and Nursery donated many of the plants over the years, including annuals and perennials. 

With over 50 varieties of perennials, the gardens continually change throughout the season. Early spring daffodils, bleeding hearts and lupine brighten the beds after the snow recedes, and are soon followed by irises, forget-me-nots, euphorbia, and peonies. In the summer, dahlias, delphiniums, and bee balm take center stage. For those who walk the path, every day is a new botanical experience. Over 30 volunteers tend to the garden.

“People can adopt a row over the summer,” Nadine continued. “And two people to a row makes it so much easier.” 

The lovely display was not achieved without challenges. For years, volunteers encased roughly 100 precious perennials with wire cages to deter deer from pruning them beyond recognition.  A newly constructed black fence now encircles the labyrinth keeping them out.  

"We had two local donations that paid for the fence,” Nadine said. “It took six people four days to put it up.” 

Weather is also a constant concern. In early June, a hailstorm shredded the vibrant perennials in early bloom. Ample spring rain and warm temperatures gradually nursed the plants back to life. 

Beyond botanical bounty, additions like an entryway peace pole and decorative concrete benches help set the tone and welcome individuals to cherish time spent in the garden. More than 600 engraved stone dedications, made from locally sourced and cut rocks, not only provide fundraising for the garden, but an ode to those who support the project.

“The Keeper of Dreams,” a life size bronze statue of a young girl watering the flowers, permanently tends the garden. Fundraising efforts, along with a significant donation by the artist, Steve Lillegard of Standford, who fashioned the girl in the likeness of his 14-year-old daughter at that time, brought her to life at the beginning of the labyrinth.

Thanks to many volunteer hours, local donations, and a labor of love, the Lewistown Community Labyrinth Garden now draws locals to celebrate weddings and memorials, along with daily walks or quiet moments. It is a beautiful, sacred space meant for everyone to walk its circuitous path and recharge among the blooms.

To spend time as a visitor or volunteer or donate to the garden, visit “Lewistown Community Labyrinth Garden” on Facebook or reach via email at lewistownlabyrinthgarden@gmail.com.