The Garden Center
A Legacy of Growth
The Garden Center’s journey began on March 29, 1962, with the groundbreaking ceremony. Construction was completed by August, and the dedication took place on September 23. That same year, we installed a Family Tree Plaque to honor our Charter Members and a plaque recognizing our Past Presidents. In the 1970s, as more members returned to the workforce, club activities slowed down, but our dedication remained strong. In 1972, we completed an expansion, adding what we now call the Apartment and the Café. Throughout the decade, members worked tirelessly to retire the mortgage on this addition.
In 2004, Hurricane Ivan caused significant damage, toppling mature pine trees and damaging the apartment. Extensive repairs, tree removal, and roof replacement were costly, with insurance covering only part of the expenses. From 2011 to 2014, we undertook major renovations, updating the lobby, auditorium, restrooms, and Café, including a new awning with lighting. Windows and shutters were also replaced. In 2014-2015, we upgraded the office and enhanced the Native Garden, adding new plantings and refreshing the grounds. Acoustical panels were installed in the Café in 2016, followed by essential repairs to gas piping, roofing, and gutters in 2016-2017. The City of Pensacola assisted with restriping our shared parking area and addressing drainage issues on 9th Avenue.
In 2017, we proudly celebrated our 85th anniversary with a special tea, marking decades of dedication, growth, and community spirit at the Garden Center.
Historical Highlights
A Timeline of Growth, Achievements, and Community Impact
1932 – The Azalea, Crepe Myrtle, and Camellia clubs joined the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs (FFGC).
1937 – Pensacola hosted the FFGC Annual Convention.
1940 – PFGC grew to 16 clubs with 352 members.
1943 – A War Bond Auction at the Annual Meeting raised $3,000.
1948 – The first Flower Show School was held.
1949 – The Garden Center was acquired near the Pensacola Bay Bridge, and the first issue of The Camellia was published.
1953 – PFGC became incorporated.
1954 – The Garden Center Building Fund was established.
1955 – Membership expanded to 36 clubs.
1956 – PFGC celebrated its Silver Anniversary and launched the “Litterbug” Campaign.
1962 – Groundbreaking for the new Garden Center took place, with the building completed and dedicated the same year.
1966 – The mortgage on the Garden Center was retired, and Pensacola hosted the 40th State Convention.
1970 – PFGC held its first Flower Show at the new fairgrounds, winning a national award.
1975 – The Roster of Honor was established to recognize significant contributions.
1982 – Celebrated PFGC’s 50th Anniversary with a special tea.
1990 – PFGC co-sponsored an art and floral design exhibition, “How Our Garden Grows.”
2000 – Launched the first “Secret Gardens of the Emerald Coast Garden Tour” and formed new Junior Gardeners Clubs.
2004 – The Veteran’s Garden was dedicated, and the Festival of Trees fundraiser was initiated.
2006 – PFGC celebrated its 75th Anniversary with special events.
2012 – Fundraising efforts led to the renovation of the Garden Center Auditorium.
2014 – Sweet Bay dedicated a “Whimsey Garden” in memory of Carolyn Whitmer, and the 63rd Annual Fair Flower Show had over 900 entries.