Digging for Support
There is an oasis in the middle of Winter Park - a haven from the hustle and bustle of the workaday world and a small piece of "Old Florida". Turtles, otters and other wildlife frolic here. Birds and butterflies gather here. Gardeners, families, joggers and students all share this space. This precious sanctuary is called Mead Garden.
Dedicated in 1940, Mead Garden has seen grand times when lush gardens and greenhouses full of exotic plant specimens were on display. However, times change and Mead Garden became a forgotten corner of our community. Today, the glass houses and formal gardens are gone. The park has been neglected and overgrown.
In 2003, the Friends of Mead Garden was established to revitalize this valuable resource. A 48 plus acre green space in the middle of an urban setting is an endangered species. The Friends of Mead Garden are determined that the garden does not become extinct.
Countless volunteer hours have been logged to help with basic maintenance needs. Over 400 antique camellias were discovered under a mountain of invasive vines. A butterfly garden has been rejuvenated and is now home to scores of butterflies and a Bird Watching Group is conducting an extensive survey of the garden throughout the seasons. Eagle Scout projects, community groups and individual citizens have all contributed to the constant upkeep the garden requires.
The City of Winter Park and its citizens have become engaged in the determining the future of Mead Garden. Community focus groups, surveys and planning sessions have all helped shape the course of action to renew Mead Garden.
But all of these efforts are not enough to insure the long-term success of Mead Garden. The garden is alive, growing and changing, and its needs are diverse. The required changes and improvements are costly. We need the financial support from residents and business leaders in our community.
Become a partner in the effort to ensure that Mead Garden will once again become a vibrant, vital refuge for all to enjoy. Please become a member today. For more information, please call Friends of Mead Garden at 407-599-2800
