To the Editor:

The date was May 7, 1925. Miss Mary Sherman hosted the first meeting of what was to become the Ogdensburg Garden Club. Some twenty women gathered at her home that day to form a club whose early mission was to rid vacant lots of weeds, establish rules prohibiting the sale of used cars from vacant lots, exterminating rabbits and protesting billboards. An Exchange Department was established to arrange for distribution of roots, bulbs, seedlings, plants and cuttings. Activities included teas, flower arranging, home gardening, discussion of magazine articles and periodicals on gardening and speakers discussing their travels in the US and internationally. A close bond was established with the Mayor and city council and the opinions of the club were sought after and valued when it came to matters of civic improvement.
In 1926 the club joined the Federation of Garden Club of New York State. Flower shows became popular and were held several times a year in members’ homes. Meeting notes talked of anti-littering campaigns and trash containers were placed on Riverside Drive. The first beautification project in a public place was the Library Grounds and City ferry docks. It was agreed that the club would cooperate with the Mayor on what needed to be done in the parks and other open areas of the city to conserve, preserve and improve trees and shrubs in our city. Work was done by the city or contracted out.
Today, 100 years later, the Ogdensburg Garden Club mission continues to be education of membership, community and especially our youth in gardening, civic improvement and flower arranging. There are currently 22 members who plant and maintain the Library Mirror Gardens and Gazebo, the Agarwal Garden, and the Arterial Garden. In addition, annually they coordinate the Hanging Basket project, place of flower pots at City Hall and the Post Office, design the canoe display on State Street and honor local residents, businesses and civic organizations at a Maple Leaf Awards ceremony. They also support the Youth Garden Club.

All of this is made possible financially through member dues, friend donations and community support.
We are deeply appreciative of the continued support received from the City of Ogdensburg Mayor, City Council and DPW staff . The club always welcomes new members and friends. If you are interested in joining the club, please contact President Lin Griffin at 315-869-1850.
Please watch for our commemorative displays planned this year. We will be featured at the Ogdensburg History Museum in June and Ogdensburg Community Bank in October as well as the Ogdensburg Public Library at dates to be announced.

Ogdensburg Garden Club