Children Are Our Future
The Garden Clubs of Illinois, Inc and Lincoln Memorial Gardens have a long history. Springfield resident Harriet Knutson had a vision for a tribute to our 16th President. She enlisted Myrtle Walgreen of The Garden Clubs of Illinois. The ladies presented the idea to landscape architect Jens Jensen and he created the design.Through the years The Garden Clubs of Illinois has contributed in many ways and continues today with their reforestation project.
In 2017, GCI President, Laurel DeBoer presented the idea of an interactive children's garden to LMG. She offered seed money for the project to LMG. Their Board enthusiastically embraced the idea. Laurel and the next president, Anita Bierbaum, shared their vision for the garden which LMG ran with. The following President of GCI, Marilyn Krueger keep us updated on the project's progress.
Plans for the children's garden have gone through several revisions since then to produce the site plan you see below. Ground is to be broken on August 1, 2023. LMG and GCI are extremely excited to see this project come to fruition!
The Garden Clubs of Illinois clubs continue to contribute to a fund for future plans for the garden.
Heading 2
Progress
Phase 1 broke ground in August of 2023
October 24, 2023
Footings for Observation Deck have cured and are ready for deck construction
Entrance to building. The Children's Garden is on the north side .
November 15, 2023
Joel Horwedel sent these photos!
Bridge piers have been poured.
Bridge piers have been poured.
Deck framing
Upper area border.
