Anna and George Marston
Seated on one of the William Templeton Johnson-designed benches on their fiftieth wedding anniversary.

Mary Marston's account of the day: "On May 3, 1928 we celebrated father's and mother's golden wedding anniversary. The day was so beautiful it seemed to have been made for a garden party. The new formal garden, where the reception was held, was gay with spring borders and with fabulous quantities of yellow roses in pots and baskets sent by friends. East of the garden the canyon slope was carpeted with golden California poppies. No formal invitations were sent, but it was made known that we would be at home that afternoon in the garden. Between three and four hundred guests came, among them eighteen persons whom father and mother had known for fifty years…All day, letters, telegrams, and even cablegrams poured in. A beautifully printed testimonial of regard from the five hundred members of the staff of the Marston store was received. Perhaps the greatest satisfaction of the day to father and mother was in having all of their children and grandchildren with them. Writing to a friend, father said: "It was one of the happiest days of our lifetime."

Photo courtesy Marston Family Collection