Question
We live in zone 5B and plan to plant some climbing roses this year.  We have looked at many books and web pages and think "America" and "New Dawn" would be appropriate, your advice please.
Our children bought us an arbour and it will be in full sun.  

Answer
New Dawn will be perfect for your arbour but be careful of America as this rose is not all that hardy and may (or may not) die back in a very cold winter. Orange or coral coloured roses are never as hardy as the other colours. The reason being that the breeder to get these colours must introduce a rose that is not very hardy. Zone 5 is what they call boarderline, which simply means that lots of roses will do well but not if your get a nasty winter. All climber are tender because they are up from the ground and it isn't the cold tht kills them but the cold winds which dry out the canes. The rule of thumb for selecting climbers that will be problem free, is to go one zone lower such as zone 4. Also most nurseries in your area, won't sell climbers that die over winter. Abraham Darby, Morning Greeting, Westerland and William Baffin have all proven to be good climbers in your area. Plus most have a strong fragrance.
Hope this helps. Lynnette