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Greenville Camellia Society (GCS) members enjoyed historian Annie Crenshaw’s presentation on “Our Grandmothers’ Gardens” at their Feb. 12 meeting at the Beeland Park Center. Crenshaw has fond memories of her own grandmother’s garden and the old-fashioned flowering plants which graced it. 

“She noted that our ancestors swapped seeds and cuttings with friends, family and neighbors to create their whimsical gardens of hardy perennials,” said GCS member Pam Nolan. “They chose plants which rewarded them with a maximum amount of flowers with a minimum amount of care and cost. Many of the heirloom varieties have a lovely scent lacking in modern hybrids, particularly roses.” 

Crenshaw discussed her efforts to salvage disappearing varieties and recommended everyone recreate a nostalgic garden of their own. She commended GCS members for the society’s work in highlighting Butler County’s heirloom camellias.