In a time when patience is no longer a virtue, and chatting mainly takes place via text messaging, the Home Garden Club of Morristown is still meeting once a month, in person, after 100 years. Although some procedures and bylaws have changed, the camaraderie and diligence of these women still grows strong.
On April 16th 2025, the Home Garden Club of Morristown celebrated its 100th year with a festive luncheon at Verona Restaurant in Randolph. Attending the luncheon, upon her own request, Assemblywoman Aura K. Dunn presented the club with a commemorative certificate signed by the NJ state legislature, honoring the longevity of the club. Amongst memorabilia and a vintage decor, contemporary members and guests spent am afternoon of reminiscences and celebration.
Beginning in 1925, in the midst of the roaring twenties, before television and cellphones, a group of women who were driven by love of gardening and love of home, got together. Originally, part of the Currant News Club of Morristown, several members, spearheaded by Mrs. William Hall and Mrs. William Dean, first recorded presidents, broke away.
The first meeting was held on Wednesday, November 5, 1925. Dues were set at 25 cents, per person, annually. Each member had to be an active gardener, willing to showcase their talents and attend the monthly meetings which were held at members homes.
Since then, the club has embraced and supported the history of the Morristown area, creating gardens for such landmarks as Acorn Hall, the Schuyler Hamilton House and many prominent intersections throughout the town.
Their holiday Wreath Making project, which began in 1930, still carries on as members create holiday wreaths from their own greenery to adorn many area sites, such as Washington’s Headquarters, Fosterfields, Frelinghuysen Arboretum and The Carol Simon Cancer Center…..
In 1927 their civic mindedness helped to bring about changes for New Jersey to combat the troublesome mosquito population. Their efforts helped form the NJ Mosquito Control Association which still exists today.
A Timeline Exhibit, showcasing the 100 year history of the Home Garden Club of Morristown was displayed at the Morristown Library and the Morris County Library during the month of April.