The idea of developing a city rose garden was presented to the Wilson Parks and Recreation Department by Rufus Swain in April 1992, in response to a public request for citizen input to a "Master Plan for Parks and Recreation" at a Town Meeting. Subsequently, the Wilson Appearance Commission, under the chairmanship of John Bayless, were enthused by the idea and adopted the project for implementation. Swain was appointed to the Commission and asked to chair the project. After two years of planning and site searching, the project was submitted to City Council and, on July 21, 1994, it was approved for development on the current site, and the commission was authorized to seek private donations for the project. No city funds were budgeted for the project at that time. At that point, the project became a community endeavor.

Plants for the first four beds were donated by Zelenka Nursery, a member of AARS. The first 120 plants were planted in the spring, 1995, followed by another 200 in 1996, 600 in 1997 and 100 in 1998. A pergola was sponsored by the Garden Department of the Wilson Woman's Club, the first group to pledge support to the project. Donations totaling approximately $150,000 have been received to date, with plans underway to substantially increase this figure. Seventeen benches and 8 picnic tables are installed, along with four wrought-iron arbors, seven trellises, a small pool, and the main fountain. A 25 foot tall Whirligig by local and internationally recognized folk artist, Vollis Simpson, is located at the lower end of the garden. A walking tour of significant Old Garden Roses, guided by information stations, was added in 2003. An attractive restroom building was constructed in 2004.

Future plans include the addition of vending facilities, additional pieces of art, and information display pages at various points of the garden. A paved walking trail is projected to encompass the perimeter of the garden.

To assure the future of the garden, a volunteer organization, "The Wilson Deadhead Society," has been formed. Currently 60 members volunteer their services to maintain the appearance of the garden through weekly deadheading. In addition, The Rose Garden Board of Directors, a group of 16 members, meets monthly to plan and develop strategies to achieve further development, and to assure support for the future maintenance of the garden. For information about the organization, email Dr. Swain. The city parks department provides routine maintenance of the garden as a public park.

The garden is available for organized tours, public meetings, weddings, and parties. Contact Wilson Parks and Recreation Department, phone (252) 399-2261, or email to Stephenie Williams for information and reservations.

To schedule a group guided tour of the garden, or for information about Wilson attractions, lodgings, restaurants, etc., contact Sandra Homes, (252) 243-8440, or to Sanra Homes . Or go to our Links page and click on Wilson Tourism to view the web site.

BR For further information about the garden development and planning, please contact:

Dr. Rufus Swain
PO Box 10
WIlson, NC 27894
(252) 237-4997
Or send email to Dr. Swain