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Fairfax County supervisors honored the Garden Club of Fairfax on May 5, recognizing a century of work that has beautified public spaces, promoted preservation and strengthened civic life.
Dranesville District Supervisor Jimmy Bierman sponsored the centennial resolution. Although he acknowledged lacking a green thumb himself, Bierman said gardening experience was not necessary to appreciate the club’s influence.
“You make it a nice place to live, because you make it a beautiful place to live,” he said.
The club began with 20 charter members at its first meeting on June 30, 1926. President Robin Walker described its history as “a century of women who believed gardening could strengthen our community.”
Walker said generations of members have served as educators, preservationists and civic leaders, connecting the organization’s history with its future.
“Our members have always shown up to serve,” she said. “We are rooted in history, growing in purpose. When citizens care for their shared garden spaces, communities thrive.”
The club’s earliest members included women who took prominent roles in Fairfax-area civic affairs. Kitty Barrett Pozer served as the town of Fairfax’s volunteer librarian, advocated for establishing the Fairfax County Public Library system and worked as The Washington Post’s garden editor for more than 30 years.
Another early member, Mrs. Amos Chilcott, opposed billboards, collaborated with the highway system to improve roadside plantings and in 1938 became the first woman appointed to the Fairfax County Planning Commission.
Supervisors also highlighted the club’s support for botanical destinations across the county, including Green Spring Gardens in Lincolnia, River Farm in Fort Hunt and Meadowlark Botanical Gardens in Wolf Trap.
Board Chair Jeff McKay said the organization’s work offers benefits beyond making the county more attractive. He emphasized the value of green spaces and gardening as therapy, particularly during difficult periods, and their role in supporting mental health.