On May 15, in a light mist, members of Harpswell Garden Club joined with friends and family of Ruth Weeks to plant the first perennial in our newest garden at Harpswell Historic Park Gardens. Led by club president Becky Gallery, more than 30 guests helped celebrate the new garden’s beginnings. Ruth Weeks was a member of Harpswell Garden Club for more than 60 years. During that time, she chaired various committees and served a term as the club’s president. Ruthie was a reliable volunteer and attended as many garden club activities as possible until her passing two years ago.

First new plants added to Ruthie’s Garden!

Thanks to donations from club members and Ruthie’s friends, Harpswell Garden Club is now able to complete this garden. Soil was turned, rocks and roots removed, and compost added to enrich the garden beds. Now we commence the season-long process of procuring plants to fill the gardens. A talented garden club member, Mary Maroney, has drawn plans for Ruthie’s Garden. Ruth’s nephew, Rob Estes, was honored to dig the first shovelful of soil to plant Veronica First Love’ in Ruth’s memory. Afterward, the group recited “The Gardener’s Collect” by Mary Carpenter Kelley. The poem is a part of National Garden Clubs’ meetings all around the country, and was one of Ruthie’s favorite parts of our club’s meetings.

Work will continue in the gardens through the coming months. We hope to dedicate the garden with a brief ceremony in September. Stay tuned for updates!