Secret garden

Friends seek to create a new outdoor gathering place at the Wellington Heritage Museum

It is a quiet spot amid the commercial core of Wellington. For some, it is a shortcut between Noxon and Main Streets. A good-sized maple stands guard in the mostly empty garden behind the Wellington Heritage Museum. A tidy bit of lawn makes a pleasing respite, but it is rarely used for such pursuits. For most, the small backyard garden goes unnoticed and unused.

The Friends of the Wellington Heritage Museum have made plans to change that. The idea is to convert this space into a quiet haven for events, small performances, gatherings and meditation. The aim is to create a place where people can gather to celebrate special occasions as well as the traditions and history of this community.

Paths will lead the passerby from the street into the garden and around the perimeter via a limestone pathway—a material chosen for its natural connection to the County. Several tall and narrow crab apple trees will line the eastern boundary, drawing the eye to the enchanting space within. On four corners of the framed space will preside four heritage-inspired benches made of heavy wood—designed as permanent and enduring features. On the west side of the perimeter will be a performance platform, complete with electrical outlets appropriate for speeches, presentations, weddings and small theatrical or musical performances.

The Friends are commissioning a sculpture for the north end of the garden—to act as a focal point for those wandering in. The sculpture will be a new work that will reflect in some way the history of the Wellington area and perhaps the Quaker origins of this property. It will be inviting and interactive—encouraging visitors and others to pose with it, perhaps sit on it, for photographs— their visual reminder of a time in Wellington.

The garden will be open to everyone at all times, even when the museum isn’t open. The Friends hope the garden will help forge a deeper connection between the community and this important heritage resource.

The Friends are currently seeking financial support to make this happen. Phase one is projected to cost about $40,000. The group hopes to earn enough pledges to begin work early in the spring, in order to unveil the new gathering space in time to honour Canada’s 150th anniversary, the 225th anniversary of the County and museum’s 50th birthday.

That will be quite a celebration.

For more information about how you might help, contact the Friends of the Wellington Heritage Museum at friendsofwhm@gmail.com or contact Jennifer Lyons, museums curator at 613-476-2148 extension 2521.