Gardening on Fifth Street blossoms in Waco

By MANDY SPIKES | Central Texas Edition

Martha Barlow, of China Spring, looks at the many flowers to choose from during her visit to the Gardening on Fifth Street event, held April 12. -- Photo by Mandy Spikes

April 24, 2003 -- For the twelfth year, Gardening on Fifth Street has been a major fundraiser for the city of Waco. Beverly Fallon, event co-chair, said that this year's event was the best so far. "We had one of the most beautiful weekends. There was a great turnout and we had not only men and women enjoying the event, but children as well. It's one of the most beautiful events in Waco."

Originally called Spring in the Pape Gardens, the event was not as big as it is now. "There was a discussion a few years ago on canceling the event. We decided instead to change the focus.

"Five years ago, Cheryl Lenamon and I began the new event, which we called Gardening on Fifth Street. It has just grown from there.

"This year we had more than 80 vendors from all over the state of Texas. We are going to keep doing it and, hopefully, just add to it. We welcome anyone interested in volunteering at the event. We also would like any ideas to make this event even better. "

According to the website, www.earleharrison.com, "the gardens on Fifth Street consist of five acres of elegant gardens with winding brick walks. Shaded by giant live oaks, the rolling lawns, lily pond fountain, a 75-foot rose arbor and rare double gazebo offer a chance to contemplate the connection between nature and art.

"The mission of the gardens is to offer the community and visitors an opportunity to connect with their roots, to use the lessons of nature to help people to connect with the earth. With a special emphasis on children's education, the gardens are open to all."

Participants enjoy the nice weather and the various vendors while at the gardens. The event was held in downtown Waco at the Earle-Harrison house. -- Photo by Mandy Spikes

Fallon added, "The gardens are open throughout the week and are open to the public for people to enjoy. There are also tours available for those who want to go through the Earle-Harrison house and the surrounding gardens."

She explained that the proceeds from Gardening on Fifth Street, as well as any donations given, will go to help build the Sid and Jane Jones Children's Garden.

"The children's garden is currently in the initial planning stage and it will be the first garden in the state of Texas that will be built on a child's level. It will be totally educational, interactive, and fun. We have been working on raising the money for the past four years."

The website stated, "At the children's garden of the gardens on Fifth Street, our mission is to create a place where children can discover their connection to the natural environment through active investigation of the earth, plants, and other living things. The historic environment of the Earle Harrison house and the gardens provide a unique opportunity for children to imagine, explore, and discover new information about the heritage and culture of Waco and Central Texas.

The children's garden will be dedicated to the honor of Sid and Jane Jones.

Fallon stated that sponsorships are being sought to help the garden become a reality. The sponsorship levels are:

• Friends of the Children's Garden - $25 annually
• Build a Rock Wall - $500 minimum
• Major Gifts - $5,000 or more