The Historic Garden League is a nonprofit foundation formed to restore, support, maintain and preserve the historic gardens of the Monterey area and to offer the public the opportunity to gain knowledge and appreciation of them.
The Historic Garden League (HGL) volunteers are dedicated to maintaining the gardens surrounding six major historic properties in Monterey. The Historic Garden League works with the Monterey State Historic Park to operate two Custom House Plaza shops owned by the State. The Jos. Boston Store and Picket Fence are staffed by HGL volunteers. All profits from sales are used to maintain, restore and support Monterey State Historic Park gardens. HGL volunteers also provide tours of six gardens. The Historic Garden League is affiliated with Monterey History and Art Association (MHAA) and has restored and maintains the Doud House and Carriage House gardens, properties owned by MHAA.
The Historic Garden League is represented by membership in the Garden Council of Monterey. A member of HGL chairs the council that consists of several garden groups from the Monterey Peninsula, the City of Monterey, California State Parks, and Monterey History and Art Association.
Special Garden Event
The Annual “History In Bloom” will take place on Saturday, September 20, 2008 in the Casa del Oro and Memory Gardens located on Scott and Pacific Streets in Monterey. Plan to attend this year and help us to continue the restoration and maintenance of Monterey’s Historic Gardens.
New Items in the Picket Fence and Jos. Boston Stores
Come and see the unique merchandise in the Historic Garden League’s two stores. Come and see our seasonal decorations and gifts.
Doud House
The Historic Garden League has restored and developed the gardens surrounding Doud House during the past three years, in conjunction with Monterey History and Art which owns the property.
Casa del Oro Garden
The Historic Garden League, in conjunction with the State Historic Park, raised funds for the development of this new garden. The garden is located at the corner of Pacific and Scott streets. The former parking lot and small garden is now the major entrance to the Historic Park and provides the visitor an unobstructed view from the First Theatre to the Custom House Plaza.
Tours
The Historic Garden League has initiated an educational program to provide tours of six of the State Historic Gardens. Docents inform visitors of the importance of the buildings as well as describing the gardens and plants. These tours are within easy walking distance from the Picket Fence, where the tours begin.
The Historic Garden League is a nonprofit educational organization. Member activities include working in the historic gardens under the supervision of master gardeners. Affiliations with related civic organizations in Monterey provide the basis for activities in common. Affiliation with the State Historic Park provides participation in the Parks docent and educational programs and seminars relating to the history and development of the Monterey Peninsula. Hours worked by Garden League volunteers are also credited by the State Historic Park and are rewarded in various ways.