When Rose Braun of Hobart was a young stay-at-home mom, she was looking for a hobby. She remembered her mother’s small garden, and the long walks they took in the woods, fostering her love of all types of flowers.
“My husband was raised on a farm and every year he planted vegetables in our garden,” Braun, 87, said. “I decided to join him, but I planted flowers instead. It was fun to have both.”
She also formally joined the Hobart Garden Club, and her dedication to the organization has stayed steady for more than six decades.
“I still love flowers and help whenever I can,” she said.
Along with dozens of other club members and the community at large, the long-time green-thumber witnessed the recent unveiling of a Blue Star memorial marker in the 500-square-foot area her club planted in front of the former Carnegie Library on 4th Street. The Hobart Historical Society calls the building home.
The placing of the marker was a focal point on the day’s agenda, which included a three-way celebration — the Carnegie building this year is turning 100 years old, the Hobart Historical Society has collected important information for 50 years and the Hobart Garden Club is marking 85 years.
“What a delightful way to honor all three of these things in one ceremony program,” said Linda Pennington of Merrillville, who was visiting family in Hobart. “In this day and age, it’s important to recognize things that have been around for a long time. It’s good for future generations to know about the wonderful things going on in this city.”
After remarks from local dignitaries and entertainment from the Wolfgang singers from Hobart High School, an ice cream social was offered, as well as a cake walk and an evening performance by the Hobart Area Concert Band.
“What a beautiful day, with such beautiful flowers,” said Hobart resident Mary Jostes, as she watched garden club members observe their planting efforts by way of the Blue Star marker. “I’ve never heard of this memorial plaque, but now I know it’s is a way to honor all those who have served in the military,” she said. “Many care, so this is a patriotic way to show it.”
Garden Club member Joyce Stanley of Crown Point feels her organization has lasted more than eight decades due to the great diversity of the group and their talent of successfully planting anything green.
“Our members come from many areas, and all have special skills,” she said. “Our mission is to beautify the community, and everyone bands together to do this.”
Fellow garden club member James Pavelka, who helped organize the day’s schedule, agreed.
“We have a great team of dedicated members,” he said. “That’s what’s kept the Hobart Garden Club going all these years.”
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter for the Post-Tribune.