The garden Club
In the summer of 2025, the MRC officially welcomed The Garden Club as part of its organization. This group of passionate gardeners gathers regularly to exchange knowledge, share helpful tips, and discuss the best methods for cultivating vibrant flowers and thriving gardens throughout the seasons.
The club's mission is to inspire a passion for gardening and the natural arts, encouraging learning, creativity, and community engagement while upholding the goals and values of the Garden Club Federation of Pennsylvania.
🌱 1905 — An Idea That Blossomed
Inspired by her cousin Mrs. Edward Martin’s success with the Philadelphia Garden Club, Miss Caroline “Carrie” Morris set out to create a similar group in Montrose. The Philadelphia Garden Club was the first of its kind in Pennsylvania, making the Montrose Garden Club the second—and when the Philadelphia club disbanded in 1906, Montrose became recognized as the oldest garden club in the state, and possibly in the nation.
🌸 The First Gathering
Miss Carrie hosted the club’s first meeting on the porch of her South Main Street home, “Restmore,” on the last Monday in May 1905, serving as its first president. Early members were expected to plan, plant, and tend their own gardens—no hired help allowed! Dues began later, starting at just 25 cents a year until 1920, when they were raised to $1 in 1923.
🌼 Traditions That Continue
Over the decades, members have met in beautiful homes and gardens, keeping a meeting format that still endures: gatherings at a member’s home, followed by refreshments, garden tours, and guest programs. The club has enjoyed lectures and trips to places like Cornell Botanical Gardens, Grey Towers, and numerous flower shows, conservancies, and parks.
🌺 Growing With the Future
Today, the Garden Club of Montrose continues to thrive as the oldest garden club in Pennsylvania, celebrating its 120th anniversary at the lovely Fernheim Farm. Members meet from April through December to share their love of gardening, learn about conservation, birds, and horticulture, and enjoy the fellowship of a flourishing tradition. With annual dues of $25, new members are always welcome to join in the beauty, camaraderie, and community spirit that has bloomed here since 1905.
