Garden Club to celebrate 90th anniversary with Fallen Heroes Memorial bloom

CENTREVILLE — The Queen Anne’s County Garden Club will be celebrating its 90th anniversary with a special Fallen Heroes Memorial planting this Arbor Day.

Marking nearly a century of dedication to beautifying and preserving the natural landscape of the community, all are welcomed to join in a celebration of nature, community, and gratitude at the Fallen Heroes Memorial located at Queen Anne’s County’s Route 18 Park at 1901 4-H Park Road April 26 at 10 a.m.

In partnership with Queen Anne’s County Parks and Recreation, this event promises to be a memorable occasion filled with recognition and camaraderie, according to Garden Club Vice President Robin Lanham.

“This is our way to give back to the community and thank the first responders for helping to keep us safe,” she said.

The Queen Anne’s County Garden Club will dedicate a Quercus alba white oak, a cherished symbol of Maryland, along with five Cornus florida ‘Cherokee Princess’ flowering white dogwoods to stand by the Fallen Heroes Memorial.

While Arbor Day traditionally serves as a day to recognize the importance of trees and environmental stewardship, this year’s festivities will also shine a light on the invaluable contributions of local heroes, police, firefighters, and all first responders who ensure the safety and well-being of the community, Lanham said.

This special recognition event between Queen Anne’s County Parks and Recreation and the Queen Anne’s County Garden Club highlights how collaboration can foster a stronger sense of community and environmental stewardship, Lanham said.

Thanks to a grant from the Federated Garden Clubs of Maryland, the Queen Anne’s club purchased dogwood trees to bloom and beautify the community memorial dedicated to first responders.

“It is important that the ceremony is behind the Fallen Heroes Memorial, as only fallen heroes have ceremonies there,” Lanham said.

The 50 member strong QACGC is filled with individuals dedicated to not only planting flowers for the community, but educating others in caring for the environment including conservation and attracting pollinators.

“People just love gardening and educating others,” she said.

More information about the Queen Anne’s County Garden Club and its 90th anniversary celebration can be found by calling 757-803-5309.