McGill Rose Garden

Overview

The McGill Rose Garden is a city-supported public garden located in the Belmont neighborhood of Charlotte, North Carolina. Spanning approximately 1.4 acres, it features over a thousand rose bushes from more than 200 varieties, along with various annuals, perennials, and herbs. The garden is notable for being one of only four All-America Rose Selections (AARS) public gardens in North Carolina and one of just 53 across the United States.

History

The garden's history dates back to 1950 when Henry McGill purchased the Avant Fuel & Ice Company, an industrial site previously used for coal and ice storage. His wife, Helen McGill, began transforming the barren plot into a garden by planting roses. The transformation continued until 1967 when the garden was opened to the public on Mother's Day, a tradition that remains popular today.

In 1976, the City of Charlotte acquired the property with the assistance of a federal grant aimed at creating green spaces. In 1995, the McGill Rose Garden was formally recognized as a non-profit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, allowing it to operate independently while still being managed by a board of directors under a lease agreement with the city.

Henry McGill dedicated much of his life to the garden, working there until the age of 99, and continued to visit regularly until his passing in 2007 at the age of 103. The garden remains a vibrant community space, supported in part by a grant from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Arts & Sciences Council.

Features and Activities

The McGill Rose Garden offers a variety of features and activities for community entertainment and engagement. It includes:

• Walking Paths: The garden is designed with meandering paths that allow visitors to explore the various plantings and landscape features.

• Art Installations: The garden includes sculptures from local artists, enhancing the visual appeal of the surroundings.

• Event Space: The garden serves as a popular venue for weddings, family gatherings, and other community events, offering a picturesque setting for celebrations.

• Floral Displays: In addition to roses, the garden showcases seasonal flowers, making it a year-round attraction for visitors.

• Support for Local Artists: The space accommodates local artists, providing opportunities for them to display their work and engage with the community.

Community Engagement

The McGill Rose Garden plays an essential role in the community by hosting events, workshops, and classes that promote engagement with nature and gardening. It is recognized as a valuable urban oasis, providing residents and visitors alike an opportunity to connect with the beauty of the outdoors in an otherwise urban environment. The garden fosters a sense of community and is seen as a cherished landmark in the Charlotte area.