Many historic sites are choosing to create heritage gardens, which would reflect what previous residents may have grown for decoration and pleasure.  In this spirit, the Workers’ Heritage Centre is proud to announce the creation of Mary Ann’s Garden.  Named for Mary Ann Gamman, the mater familias, the purpose of the garden is to recreate the type of garden a working class family would have had in the Ottawa region around the turn of the last century, especially between 1900 and 1915.

Working class gardens were simple compared to those of the higher classes.  While there would have been some decorative elements, most families would have been growing kitchen gardens to grow their own vegetables to eat, even if they lived in a city.

While Mary Ann’s Garden is intended as a long-term project, for its first year of existence the plants grown will likely be ornamental only.  Despite this, Mary Ann’s Garden will be the only working class heritage garden in the City of Ottawa.

The Mary Ann’s Garden committee is headed by Sanna Guérin, curator, with the participation of Ken Clavette, Naomi Gadbois, and Edwinna von Baeyer.  If you are interested in heritage gardens or would like to know more about the project, please email the curator.

Links to other heritage gardening resources: (coming)

If you are interested in our garden and would like to participate, email the curator workersheritage@gmail.com