There were 15 ladies who lived in and around Ashland who came up with an idea in October of 1957 to start a garden club. Within 3 months, January 1958, the club became an official member of the Federated Garden Clubs of Missouri. Meetings in those days were held in members homes, civic buildings and businesses. One member worked for the telephone office as a switchboard operator. For her to be able to participate meetings were held at the local telephone office.

The club’s overall purposes are to promote beauty and to encourage conservation and preservation of our land. Much has been done to address these goals. There have been many projects over the years with many remaining in place today. We continue to serve the community by maintaining numerous flower beds, tree planting at the city park, adding the Blue Star Memorial in 2003, awarding Yard of the Month from May thur October each year and awarding at least one five hundred scholarship to a student from our school. This year we awarded two scholarships.

Another on going project is “The Nature Seekers”, a junior garden club. Members meet with 4th grade students during the school year. The junior club is to encourage the students interest in gardening, conservation and stewardship of our natural resources.

These projects are made possible buy the proceeds we make from the annual plant sale every spring. The Ashland community and surrounding Southern Boone County residents have given us their support every year. We want to say thank you to all who come and buy the plants. We could not continue what we without your continued support.

We meet on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Senior Center beginning at 7 pm. The meetings are open to the public. Please join us and consider becoming a member.

Submitted by Marilyn McGuire

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