Memorial garden tributes long-time garden club friend

A fieldstone with a plaque inscribed Drew MacCandlish Memorial Garden was revealed by Peter Hovestadt, and Teddy.

A memorial garden on the grounds of the Ameliasburgh Town Hall provides a haven for bees and butterflies and pays tribute to a fellow gardener who left beauty in his path.

The Drew MacCandlish Memorial Garden was unveiled Sunday by the executive committee and members of the Ameliasburgh Garden Club (AGC).

The garden was designed and installed by Ben O’Brien, a two-time AGC bursary recipient and graduate of the University of Guelph’s Bachelor of Landscape Architecture program. A fieldstone with a plaque inscribed Drew MacCandlish Memorial Garden was revealed by Peter Hovestadt, Drew’s partner for more than 15 years.

MacCandlish was an honorary member and long-time friend of the Ameliasburgh Garden Club. He passed away in November 2014.

“The mission of the Ameliasburgh Garden Club is to encourage an interest in gardening and to enhance the beauty of our area,” said President Laurie Storen. “I believe it was also Drew’s mission as he was always there to help us, encouraging and guiding us through many workshops both here and at his greenhouse.”

MacCandlish was responsible for the design of many residential gardens within Prince Edward County as well as commercial design work. One of his most impressive works was the design and installation of an extensive three acre Sculpture Garden located at Huff Estates Winery, at the corner of County Roads one and 62.

“Drew was an inspiration to so many people and did so much to add to the beauty of our County. I am so pleased that the Ameliasburgh Garden Club has created this garden in his memory,” said councillor Roy Pennell, in attendance with councillors Janice Maynard and Dianne O’Brien.

“As director of district three of the OHA, I congratulate the Ameliasburgh Garden Club for this special project as it is an example of their dedication to the beautification of their community while also remembering a wonderful gardener, treasured member and friend,” said Penny Stewart, in attendance with Ontario Horticultural Association (OHA) vice-president Rose Odell and assistant director and secretary Gayla Campney.

Ameliasburgh Garden Club dedication group.