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T H E G A R D E N S
Marcellus Rhododendron Walk
A bright splash of color heralds spring in Mission's largest park.
Attractively arranged in five large beds, rhododendrons have been
flourishing in Fraser River Heritage Park since 1986 -- the year
of Expo in Vancouver, and also when the Park officially opened.
All the rhododendrons are the generous gift of Dr. Jim Marcellus,
a popular General Practitioner in Mission for many years. In
1952 he met Dr. McKee, a retired doctor living on Sumas Mountain,
just across the Fraser River, who had built himself a fine
reputation for not only being the first doctor to bring diphtheria
immunization into British Columbia, but also for his outstanding
collection of rhododendrons imported over the years from various parts
of the world. Jim purchased many specimens for his own garden
and soon began hybridizing. His enthralling hobby won him a prize
for the best new hybrid at the Vancouver Rhododendron Show of 1973.
All of Jim's plants are uniquely beautiful in formation, color and
perfume and well worth visiting in the early spring.
Ernest Jacobsen Rose Garden
Ernie Jacobsen was a long time resident and rosarian of Mission.
He saw active duty at D-Day, and when he returned home to Mission
began to grow roses in his garden. His love for roses was
"bountiful" and he delighted in sharing his blooms and his
knowledge with friends and neighbors. He was a member of numerous
rose societies and, over the years, gained international renown.
When he passed away in 2001 it was his family's wish that 300 of
his beloved plants be given to the Fraser River Heritage Park.
It was agreed that a garden be established to bear his name.
Volunteers quickly set about selecting a site, and seeking funding
from the local community. A southerly location the park with
spectacular views across the Fraser Valley was deemed ideal. A
professional design was donated, and sufficient funds were
attained in only a few months for landscapers to prepare the
site in time to receive the roses in November of 2001. In the
ensuing years and as donations were received, the garden has
been expanded to incorporate arbors, benches, paths and a
rabbit-proof fence.
Some of the rose plants such as "Butterfly Wings" are unique.
Ernie's favorite was "Alpine Sunset." The majority of plants are
his original hybrid teas, floribundas, and climbers. All offer a
riot of beauty and color and perfume in a special area of
tranquility and peace.
Memorial Garden
This special and very beautiful little garden is situated on
an old St Mary's School foundation. It was established soon after
the Park opened by donations from Park supporters in memory of
loved ones. Now it is full of roses, lavender and other attractive
flowering shrubs surrounded by a low box hedge. Shaded and private,
it offers a quiet spot to sit and view the spectacular Fraser Valley
with Mt. Baker rising proudly in the distance.
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