The Federated Garden Clubs
of Maryland, Inc.

“Club - Community - Country

Garden for the Health of It”

I am honored and excited to serve as the 43rd President of the Federated Garden clubs of Maryland, Inc. I’d like to share some Federation history with you. In March 1926, ten Founder Clubs were organized in Maryland - Amateur Gardeners, Garden Section of Arundell, Blue Ridge Summit, Catonsville, Four Rivers, Greenspring Valley, Women’s Civic League, Hardy, Halten and Country of Harford County.  In January 1929 six additional clubs joined the founder Clubs - Garden Club of Twenty, Roland Park, Severn River, Cedarcroft, Guilford and Gibson Island. In May 1929 these first clubs accepted an invitation to become a Charter Federation in the new National Organization of Federated Garden Clubs. And so the journey began…

Today the Federation lists over one hundred clubs with a total membership of nearly 4,000 organized in five districts throughout the entire state of Maryland. Over the years we have lost some clubs and gained new ones. Our parent organization has changed its name to National Garden Clubs, Inc. Throughout these changes the goals of the Federation have remained constant with emphasis on education, scientific and charitable purposes all highlighting conservation and environmental awareness.

During my 2011-13 term as President, I will work with my Board of Directors to promote the goals of the Federation by offering our members interesting and challenging opportunities to expand their knowledge and broaden their gardening horizons. Focus Groups have been established to examine various areas of the Federation and to recommend any changes that would improve and strengthen its effectiveness. New Clubs and the retention and addition of members is a primary goal. I invite all members to spread the word about the advantages of Garden Club membership. Introduce a neighbor to your Club. I further invite all members to contact me with suggestions and concerns. Many exciting events are coming up or in the planning stages. Check the Federation Calendar regularly to see everything that's being offered. Finally, I invite you to join me on this two-year journey - you don't want to miss a thing!!