About the Manchester Garden Club
In order to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Manchester Garden Club, a coat of arms, more formally referred to as a "full achievement", was created by then member and Vice-President, Mr. Lynn Beaulieu. The motto, The Seed of Every Idea Cultivated, is reflected in the sprouting pod in the shield of arms. This new growth is nourished by the rain in the shield and the sun above, and is also represented by the sunflower. The overall analogy is resilience and growth, two guiding principles of our Club.
Who are we?
For over eighty years, the Manchester Garden Club has provided services to the community. In the early years, key projects included the purchase and installation of shrubs and trees to schools, museums and hospitals. Post World War II, in addition to continuing this work, the Club expanded its efforts to include the planting of public gardens and conservation work. In the last fifty years, the Club has continued to diversify its efforts and its membership.
Organized: October 1926 Federated: November 1941
What is our objective?
"To stimulate interest in horticulture; to encourage the art of displaying things grown; to promote civic improvement and to aid in the protection and beautification of nature." Federated Garden Clubs Constitution, Article II
What do we do?
- Annual Spring Plant Sale (Club's major fundraiser)
- Planting and maintenance of town gardens:
- Margaret Trotter Memorial Garden
- William and Ellen Buckley Memorial Garden
- Vietnam Memorial Park Garden
- Wadsworth Atheneum Festival of Trees and Traditions
- Annual decoration of the Cheney Homestead for its Holiday Open House
- Support of the Children's Butterfly Garden
- Floral Artistry to Mary Cheney Library monthly
- Participation in town's Memorial Tree Planting Program to honor deceased members
- Scholarship awarded annually. Contact info@manchestergardenclubs.org to receive an application
What are the benefits of membership?
For $25.00 per year, you receive a 10% discount card to be used at Woodland Gardens plus special savings at other local nurseries. You benefit from informative presentations, free advice from experienced gardeners, advance notification of gardening-related activities and the hospitality and generosity of the members. You are also automatically enrolled in the Federated Garden Clubs and receive their newsletters, providing advice and information on activities happening regionally and nationally.
2009-2011 OFFICERS
- President: Lynda Tingley
- Vice President: Deb Flower
- Secretary: Deana Richard
- Treasurer: Gerry Lupacchino