This Citizen Contribution was submitted by Carla Farrell and Fran Belviso, co-presidents of the Morris Cove Garden Club.
On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, The Morris Cove Garden Club celebrated its 100th anniversary with a tea at The Estate, formerly known as the Townshend Mansion. The Estate is a beloved and historic site in the Morris Cove section of New Haven. We were honored to have Federated Garden Club President, Karin Pyskaty, in attendance, along with our most venerable members: Margaret Ottenbriet, Tina Doyle, and Josephine Farricelli, who is 104 years young!
We have had numerous flower shows over the years with one being held at the Townshend Mansion. Delores Townsend, known as Deb to those around her, was a long standing member of our club! In her honor, Jenn Haddon sang a song that Deb Townshend composed. Margaret Ottenbriet recounted memories of the garden club’s humble beginnings. Names of members who have passed were read, followed by a moment of silence in their honor. Anne Brandt shared stories that members submitted of their favorite memories of their time in the club. One of the most memorable was the installation of the Blue Star Memorial at Fort Nathan Hale.
In honor of our 100 years, club members planted 100 daffodil bulbs throughout the Morris Cove area. One of the most special planting locations was at the Pardee Seawall, overlooking Long Island Sound. We invite everyone to take a walk along this beautiful area as the days warm up and enjoy the views we are so thankful to have!
More information regarding the Morris Cove Garden Club can be found on our group Facebook page or over on our Instagram.