Dogwoods of this type typically only last fifty years or so, but Updike’s dogwood is still going strong at The John Updike Childhood Home, 117 Philadelphia Ave., in Shillington. The side garden, planted by volunteers, is also starting to bloom.

Thanks to our tenant and docent extraordinaire, Dave Ruoff, for the photos, and to Emma Bausher and her friend, Ann, for tending the garden.