Butchart Gardens in Victoria designated Canadian historic site
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
VICTORIA, British Columbia -- After a century of painstaking, increasingly elaborate horticulture, the Butchart Gardens has been designated a Canadian national historic site.
The honor was announced by David Anderson, a member of parliament from the area, and Environment Minister Stephane Dion as the 54.3-acre site hosts its annual Christmas lights display and approaches the end of its 100th year of operation.
The gardens were established by Jennie Butchart, who decided to transform an old limestone quarry site that remained from a cement manufacturing operation run by her husband Robert.
It now includes four principal areas that are filled with more than a million bedding plants and that draws more than a million visitors a year.
The historic designation reflects the family's success in "turning the old quarry into the premier symbol of Victoria," Anderson said. "It's a particular recognition of Jennie Butchart, who was a really remarkable woman ... a woman of determination and strong character."
Butchart Gardens, still a private, family-run enterprise, is currently directed by Robin Clarke, a great-granddaughter of Jennie and Robert Butchart.
They also have great fireworks all summer long 8)
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
VICTORIA, British Columbia -- After a century of painstaking, increasingly elaborate horticulture, the Butchart Gardens has been designated a Canadian national historic site.
The honor was announced by David Anderson, a member of parliament from the area, and Environment Minister Stephane Dion as the 54.3-acre site hosts its annual Christmas lights display and approaches the end of its 100th year of operation.
The gardens were established by Jennie Butchart, who decided to transform an old limestone quarry site that remained from a cement manufacturing operation run by her husband Robert.
It now includes four principal areas that are filled with more than a million bedding plants and that draws more than a million visitors a year.
The historic designation reflects the family's success in "turning the old quarry into the premier symbol of Victoria," Anderson said. "It's a particular recognition of Jennie Butchart, who was a really remarkable woman ... a woman of determination and strong character."
Butchart Gardens, still a private, family-run enterprise, is currently directed by Robin Clarke, a great-granddaughter of Jennie and Robert Butchart.
They also have great fireworks all summer long 8)