The Wimbledon Garden Club (WGC) was formed in 1980 to encourage friendships among Wimbledon residents, to encourage interest in home gardening, and to maintain and improve the beautification of the Wimbledon neighborhood.
We continue to be blessed with 4 of the original members: Carole Hoyer, Nancy Hurt, Wilma Mitchell, and Carole Terry.
In 1983, the WGC purchased and now maintains the antique styled street signs in Wimbledon and North Wimbledon.
In December 1984, the tradition of decorating the mailboxes and street signs of Wimbledon for the holiday season began. Over the years, the WGC has stored, maintained, and hung the garland purchased by each neighborhood for their street signs. New red ribbon is purchased by the WGC each year and made into 800+ bows for the neighborhood.
In 1985, the Wimbledon Garden Club and the Southwest Lions Club contributed to the development of Wimbledon Park between Wimbledon Drive and Green Oaks. From 1992-1993, numerous trees were planted in the playground vicinity. The "Past Presidents Grove" of five live oaks were planted in 1994 near the future West garden. At this time, four yaupon hollies were planted in the park entrance beds. From 1996-1999, WGC members designed and installed the West Garden at the park with support from the Arlington Parks and Recreation Department. Trees, shrubs, flowers and benches at Wimbledon Park have become tributes to loved ones and special friends.
From 1993-1995, after the extension of Bardin Road was underway, the WGC designed and installed the beds and irrigation system for the median at the Racquet Club intersection.
In the fall of 2008, 12 new trees were planted as part of the City of Arlington's L.E.A.F project and WGC agreed to plant, water, and nurture these trees for two years. A new WGC logo was also introduced to meet technological needs.
The Wimbledon Garden Club Tradition represents untold hours of planting flowers, pulling weeds, spreading mulch, and the vital responsibilities for maintaining the West Garden and Bardin Road Median. Additionally, many hours have been spent typing and hanging bows, communicating and planning for activities, recruting board members, delivering in the neighborhood attending WGC meetings, and preparing dishes for meetings and friends.
A review of the original purpose confirms how united goals and teamwork has fostered friendships, provided horticultural knowledge, encouraged gardening, and beautified the neighborhood.
