About
East Texas Area Attractions
Hidden Surprises Await
The Pyron Garden sits on a ¾-acre lot in the heart of Tyler’s historic Azalea District. Each spring, during the Azalea and Spring Flower Trail, more than 100,000 visitors travel to Tyler, many of whom make a point to stop by Pyron Garden, home to the annual Ribbon Cutting Ceremony that opens the trail.
The garden features a charming blend of natural beauty and hand-built structures. Visitors will find a gazebo, pergola, greenhouse, sculptures, fountains, a walking bridge, and plants stretching in every direction. There are numerous places to sit, relax, and enjoy the scenery – perfect for a quiet moment or making memories with loved ones among the blooming azaleas.
Hidden surprises are scattered throughout the garden: a small library with a rotating selection of books, picturesque photo ops, and artful vignettes tucked into lush corners of the landscape.
Though privately owned, the Pyron Garden has long welcomed the public. We ask all guests to be mindful that this is a lived-in home. Please respect posted hours, avoid littering, and do not pick flowers or disturb the plants.
Over the years, the Pyron Garden has served as the setting for weddings, private parties, tea gatherings, and photo sessions. The blend of flowers, trees, and architectural features creates a magical, storybook-like backdrop perfect for unforgettable events.
The garden is home to a diverse array of plants, including over 600 azaleas representing nearly 30 varieties, as well as roses, lilies, Japanese maples, and seasonal annuals. While many of the flowers reach peak bloom in spring, there’s always something beautiful to see year-round at the Pyron Garden.
Bookings
Interested in hosting a gathering or booking a private session in the garden? We’d love to hear from you.
Please Contact Us for more information on availability and event guidelines.
Bookings
Interested in hosting a gathering or booking a private session in the garden? We’d love to hear from you.
Please contact us for more information on availability and event guidelines.
One of many charming structures in the garden.
A Rich
History
Architect
According to Historic Tyler, Inc., the house at 212 W. Dobbs was built in 1932 by Marion L. and Bashie Witherup. Marion L. Witherup, an oil operator and World War I balloon pilot, constructed the masonry home with the design expertise of well-known Tyler architect Shirley Simons, Sr.
Simons’ architectural legacy includes prominent Tyler landmarks such as Tyler City Hall, Tyler Junior College’s original campus plan, Bergfeld Park, Willow Brook Country Club, and the Woman’s Building. Beyond Tyler, Simons also designed the Houston Museum of Art and the Pines Theater in Lufkin, Texas. For the Witherup House, he incorporated rough timbers among the brickwork to create a distinct Elizabethan Revival style, blending elements of English Country and English Tudor design.
Property
The land originally belonged to Judge Sam A. and Theresa Lindsey and was sold to Witherup in 1931 for $1,250. A portion of this property was donated for the Woman’s Building, which still stands at 911 S. Broadway Ave in Tyler. Through a series of transactions over the years, the remaining parcels of land were eventually sold until April 1936, when the final strip was purchased by Dr. H. R. Coats, a local osteopath, completing the property as it is known today.
In 1942, Dr. Coats sold the home to C. E. Owens, the owner-operator of East Texas Auto Supply, who resided there for nearly 20 years. From 1961 to 1997, the home changed ownership several times but remained largely unchanged until it was purchased by Guy E. and Joan C. Pyron, the namesakes of Pyron Garden.
The Pyrons
Originally from Dallas, Guy and Joan Pyron were instrumental in transforming the property. Joan recalled that the backyard was “like a garbage heap,” overrun with English ivy and debris, hiding some of the garden’s now-iconic features.
According to their daughter, Holly, “When they bought the house, the yard was quite overgrown and in disrepair. As a matter of fact, they didn’t even know they had that lovely barbecue in the back corner – it was completely buried!”
Guy taught himself carpentry and welding, eventually constructing and restoring many of the garden’s beloved structures, including the stone bridge, gazebos, pergola, and greenhouse. Joan focused on the garden’s plants and design, restoring original flower beds and adding new ones to create a stunning three-level garden filled with azaleas and other blooms.
The Pyrons initiated the tradition of hosting the annual Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for the Azalea and Spring Flower Trails and welcomed the public to enjoy their garden. Joan, who fondly referred to the space as “God’s Garden,” believed it was meant to be shared.
On September 23, 1998, the house was officially designated a Tyler Historic Landmark by the Tyler Historic Preservation Board, honoring its cultural, economic, and social significance.
On March 30, 2020, Guy Pyron passed away, surrounded by his loving family.
“We enjoyed spending every minute fixing up the garden,” Joan said. “God blessed us with this garden to share with others.” Joan would continue the maintenance of the garden, ensuring the space would be welcoming for everyone who visited.
Following his passing, a memorial cross was placed at the back of the garden to overlook the space Guy and Joan so lovingly nurtured.
Today
In early 2025, Joan Pyron sold the property to new owners, who remain committed to preserving the Pyrons’ legacy. They continue to maintain public access to the garden, uphold the annual Ribbon Cutting Ceremony tradition, and honor the name “Pyron Garden.”
Plan Your Escape
Pyron Gardens is an adventure for people of all ages. When planning a visit, review our calendar to confirm the garden is available to the public that day. Sometimes, the garden is closed for various reasons.
Events & Photography
With the amazing backdrop of color and life, Pyron Garden is a highly sought-after venue for events or photoshoots. However, the narrow window of opportunity during the springtime creates a demand that can be difficult to manage. Help us stay organized by scheduling your activities.