The Columbus Botanical Garden’s mission is to preserve a portion of the rapidly diminishing open space in Columbus and to provide the public with a unique educational facility that is based on environmental awareness, horticulture, historic preservation and agricultural values. This facility shall strive to inspire and leave a lasting impression on those who visit.
Our History
Click on an event in the timeline below to view more information.
1910s: Adams Family Purchase the Farmhouse
The Adams family purchase the farmhouse and surrounding property.
1999: Columbus Botanical Garden is Founded
The Adams Farmhouse is moved from its original location on Veteran´s Parkway to current location on Weems Road. The first Columbus Botanical Garden board is organized.
2000: Adams Farmhouse is Restored
2002-2004: First Master Plan
The first master plan for the Garden is developed. Additional upgrades are made to the Adams Farmhouse and landscape. The Garden is first dedicated.
2005-2006: Adams Farmhouse Renovated
Additional renovations are made to the Adams Farmhouse. The Garden’s landscape is expanded.
2007: First Executive Director
Nicole Sanchez is appointed the first Executive Director of the Columbus Botanical Garden. New monthly educational programs offered, and a monthly newsletter is established.
2008: The Garden Grows
The Gin House is moved from its previous location on Veteran´s Parkway, and initial renovations are completed. Herb Garden beds are renovated. The Columbus Technical College Foundation announces a plan to divest Columbus Botanical Garden. Landscape Architect, Gary Gullatte, updates the Garden’s master plan and designs the Joann Holt Walking Trail.
Within the same year, the Joann Holt Walking Trail opens to public. The Garden conducts its first annual fund drive. Phase II of the Joann Holt Walking Trail development begins.
2009: Membership Benefits and Additional Expansion
The Garden newsletter is moved to a bi-monthly format offered electronically and in print. Newsletter distribution grows to over 300 recipients per issue.
Garden membership benefits expand to include 10% discounts at locally-owned garden centers and nurseries. The Columbus Botanical Garden offers checkout privileges in 500-volume library to members. The first comprehensive plant labeling program offers correct botanical information to visitors.
Funding from a variety of sources provides for landscaping upgrades, street signs, improvements to farmhouse interior and a donation box on property.
2010: Grants Awarded
The Garden is awarded an irrigation grant from the Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust. The Garden is also awarded a grant to create the Pollinator Garden.
2014: New Executive Director, Matt Whiddon
Mr. Matt Whiddon is appointed Executive Director of the Columbus Botanical Garden.
Officers
- Lally McGurk, President
- Molly Day, Vice President
- Minnie Bradley, Corresponding Secretary
- Patricia Barfield, Recording Secretary
- Chuck Cumiskey, Treasurer
- Matt Whiddon, Executive Director
Board Members
| Cindy Alexander | Mizell Alexander | Sherri Callaway |
| Billy Cunningham | Ruthie Curtis | Martha C. Davis |
| Terri Edwards | J. Robert Elliott, Jr. | Swain F. Gravlee |
| Nancy Gunby | Angie Hart | Sally Hatcher |
| Maudie Huff | Sheila Kiggins | Dr. Edward Kinner |
| Margaret Lewis | Mary Elsie Martin | Faye Melton |
| Susan Milligan | Dixie Crymes Olson | Bryan Rust, Jr |
| Mary Lou Swift | Sam Wellborn | Dr. Cecil Whitaker |
| Gayle J. Yarbrough | Jennifer Davidson Ex Officio |
Board of Trustees
| Charlotte Clark | Gloria Dodds | Suzy Edge |
| Sally Foley | Samantha Grey | Erwin Key |
| Richard Ramey | Rose Steiner |
Director Emeritus
Jeannine Alexander
