The Naperville Garden Club is the oldest garden club in Naperville. It began as a special interest group within the Naperville Woman’s Club in 1927. At the first meeting, James Young of Young’s Aurora Nursery was the speaker. He encouraged the ladies to develop an “ardent desire for the good of individual and municipal gardening.”
In February 1929, an independent garden club, the Naperville Garden Club, was born.
The Naperville Garden Club has donated many trees, shrubs and perennials throughout the city and within the borders of School Districts 203 and 204. Some are identified by markers, but most are not. Gardens are thriving at many schools including Fry, Nancy Young, Patterson and Spring Brook Elementary Schools.
One garden is planted and maintained at Elmwood Elementary in memory of Jeanine Nicarico, one of the club’s junior members at the time of her murder. Gardens are growing at Brooks Crossing Park, Burlington Square Park, Central Park and all three of Naperville’s libraries.
As the Riverwalk was being developed, the Naperville Garden Club donated funds to help purchase lighting and assist with other expenses.
At Burlington Square Park, near the Naperville train station, the Blue Star Memorial Marker honors our military, surrounded by a garden that includes a bench. In 2008, the club supported the dedication of the “Spirit of the Navy” statue. Burlington Square Park is a treasure, developed over the years by many donors. Please take time to visit.
When you watch “Spotlight on Naperville” on our local channel, NCTV17, the floral designs are courtesy of the Naperville Garden Club. The club also provides a new floral design weekly to Ronald McDonald House as well as treats for the families to enjoy.
The major fundraiser, the Cup of Cheer™ House Walk, Holiday Market and Tea, will be November 30 and December 1, 2023. Proceeds help fund projects, such as those mentioned above, as well as scholarships to local students. Since 1978, approximately $460,000 has helped our students pursue their degrees.
For club information about events, meetings and membership, visit napervillegardenclub.org. Meetings are open to the public, with paid reservation, and new members are welcome.
Disclaimer… I am a member of the Naperville Garden Club and enjoy visiting the other two garden clubs. I hope that you have noticed the impact of all three garden clubs in our community!
