Since they can’t open their gardens to the public this year, the Advertiser has invited local horticultural societies to write about what’s going on in their gardens. For questions or to submit articles, email jshuttleworth@wellingtonadvertiser.com.
By Ken Johnston
FERGUS – There is a garden across from the Fergus Marketplace. You may have never stopped there; never took the time to read and enjoy the stories. It is called BT Corner, completed in 2011.
BT Corner recognizes the many contributions the Beatty family made to Fergus beginning with the founding of their business in 1874. By 1934 the Beatty family employed a third of the town and grew their business to the largest manufacturer of washing machines in Canada.
Their accomplishments are many as can be seen as you read their history at BT Corner. The Beattys were forward-thinking, building houses for their employees and selling them at cost starting in 1919; a group life insurance plan in 1927 and a retirement annuity plan in 1945.
This site was made possible by the dedication and generosity of many. The project was spearheaded by Heritage Centre Wellington with Kathy Baranski as Chair. Other contributors include Grand River Agricultural Society, Township of Centre Wellington, Fergus BIA, Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Fergus and District Horticultural Society.
The stone wall built by the Horticultural Society is made of reclaimed stone from a pioneer cottage razed for the Groves Hospital helicopter pad. Plants were chosen by Roberta Vlietstra, past president of Fergus and District Horticultural Society and Julie Kron, Master Gardener. The IODE gave some money for the plants. A garden at the south side has been planted in their honour. Other plants were donated by members. The Red Oak was a first place prize for an exhibit at Canada Blooms in Toronto. The table was made by Alec Calder a departed member in memory of Trevor Ashby, a colourful town horticulturalist who could be seen riding his motorcycle around town on any sunny afternoon.
The Diggers planted and have maintained the gardens since then. “It is important to protect the heritage of our town especially as we grow,” said Kathy Bouma, past president. “This is another example of what helped shape Fergus into the historical town it is today.”
BT Corner is a must see for everyone who wants to know a little more of the history of this great town and enjoy the flowers and the surroundings sitting on one of the benches.
Ken Johnston has been a member of the Fergus & District Horticultural Society for four years and is a digger, a board member, and chair of the club’s media committee.
