FERGUS – The Fergus and District Horticultural Society dedicated a sculpture in Templin Gardens to honour past members of the society that have made contributions to the town’s public gardens, the community, and society.
Karen Eddie, the club’s president, unveiled the sculpture called Allium at a ceremony attended by Neil Dunsmore, Deputy Mayor for Centre Wellington, past members’ families and friends, horticultural society members, and the horticultural society’s “diggers” group that work the gardens in town.
The sculpture was commissioned by the society and created by Jeff Smith of Hammersmith Metal Works.
“We wanted a memorial to permanently recognize the many contributions our members have made to these beautiful gardens we enjoy in Fergus as well as their many other contributions,” said Eddie.
“These people dedicated their lives and volunteered their time to make our world a better place.
“This is a memorial that will permanently symbolize the contributions they made while they were here.”
Past members honoured with the dedication were Alec Calder, Barrie Hopkins, John Carter, Chris Ecclestone, Doreen Telford, Joan Cuming, Joan McWilliam, Dorothy Collin and Laurie Hotson.
Going forward the plan is a celebration every year for members that have passed on in the year, to remember what they brought to the horticultural society and this town.
By Ken Johnston, Fergus and District Horticultural Society