Welcome to
Manchester Garden Clubs
Online Home
The roaring twenties saw Manchester as a community in resurgence. With the arrival of new businesses and banks in town, new homes were popping up all over town. And with those homes an interest in gardening began to be embraced by Manchester society. Supported by the continued interest in the U.S. in horticultural specimens, these garden enthusiasts began to meet (and compete!) in order to share specimens, ideas and passions. When the gavel strike opened the first meeting, there were just a few members, mostly men at the time. Here are some notes from that first meeting:
A meeting was held Sept. 23, 1926, at the Manchester Community Club of three, who at the recent Flower Show, had signified their interest in forming a Garden Club. The meeting was called to order by G. H. Washburn, Director of the Community Club, who also presented the prizes awarded at the Flower Show. These consisted of collection of gladiola bulbs, donated by Chase M. Murphey, and California rose bushes, donated by C. R. Burr. Several bouquets of late flowers were brought to this meeting, and an enjoyable time was spent in discussions and general exchange of ideas. It was also decided that the organization be know as the Manchester Garden Club.
The influence of the Manchester Garden Club grew, and with the support of local celebrities, became known statewide. During the presidency of William F. Buckley (noted author and gardener) it was not unusual to see the likes of Katherine Hepburn motoring through town on the way to the Buckley estate to meet and be tutored by Dr. Buckley. During and after World War II, the membership shifted to include mostly women, and remained that way until the past few years.
Today we have over 80 members (women and men) from Manchester and neighboring towns. Our members enjoy the broadest range of gardening including perennials, annuals, roses, shade and sun, rock gardens and water gardens, carnivorous and tropicals. Even indoor gardens. And sometimes, no gardens but a great passion for beauty and friendship.
Welcome to our on-line Home. We hope you enjoy learning about our club and we hope to see you at our meetings!
Click here to learn about the Manchester Garden Club's 2008 monthly wall calendar.
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